10 Dog Parks in Arlington, VA: An Off-Leash Guide for Dog Owners
Arlington offers an unusual combination of urban living, walkable neighborhoods and public spaces for dog owners. According to Arlington County, the county operates 10 sanctioned dog parks where dogs can exercise off leash.
These parks serve communities across North and South Arlington, from Clarendon and Rosslyn to Shirlington and Columbia Pike. However, amenities, fencing, parking and closing times vary. This guide can help current residents and buyers considering Arlington real estate find a dog park that fits their location and routine.
Arlington Dog Parks at a Glance
| Dog Park | Address | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Highlands Interim | 1600 S. Hayes St. | Sunset |
| Shirlington | 2710 S. Oakland St. | Sunset |
| Fort Ethan Allen | 3829 N. Stafford St. | 30 minutes after sunset |
| Towers | 801 S. Scott St. | 10 p.m. |
| Gateway Interim | 1300 Langston Blvd. | 10 p.m. |
| Utah | 3191 S. Utah St. | 30 minutes after sunset |
| Fort Barnard | 2101 S. Pollard St. | 9 p.m. |
| Glencarlyn | 401 S. Harrison St. | Sunset |
| Benjamin Banneker | 1680 N. Sycamore St. | Check current county hours |
| James Hunter | 1230 N. Hartford St. | 9 p.m. |
Hours and conditions can change. Confirm current information on the official Arlington County dog parks page before visiting.
1. Shirlington Dog Park
Shirlington Dog Park is located at 2710 South Oakland Street beside Four Mile Run. Its South Arlington location makes it convenient for residents of Shirlington, Fairlington and nearby condominium and apartment communities. The park closes at sunset, so owners should plan earlier visits during winter.
2. James Hunter Dog Park
James Hunter Dog Park is located at 1230 North Hartford Street in Clarendon. Its location works especially well for dog owners living near the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor. The park remains open until 9 p.m., but it closes for maintenance from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
3. Towers Dog Park
Towers Dog Park at 801 South Scott Street is lighted and open until 10 p.m. It also includes a dedicated small-dog area, making it useful for owners who prefer separating smaller dogs from the general off-leash space. Parking is limited, so nearby residents may find walking more convenient.
4. Gateway Interim Dog Park
Gateway Interim Dog Park is located at 1300 Langston Boulevard near Rosslyn and Courthouse. The lighted park remains open until 10 p.m., providing an evening option for residents of nearby apartments and Rosslyn condos.
5. Fort Ethan Allen Dog Park
Fort Ethan Allen Dog Park is located at 3829 North Stafford Street in North Arlington. Arlington County identifies ample parking and a drinking fountain among its features. The park is open from sunrise until approximately 30 minutes after sunset.
6. Utah Dog Park
Utah Dog Park is located at 3191 South Utah Street near Fairlington and Shirlington. The facility includes a drinking fountain and operates from sunrise until approximately 30 minutes after sunset. County information indicates that parking is limited.
7. Fort Barnard Dog Park
Fort Barnard Dog Park is located at 2101 South Pollard Street near Douglas Park. Lights remain on until 9 p.m., making it another option for evening visits. The surrounding area includes established residential neighborhoods near Columbia Pike and Shirlington.
8. Glencarlyn Dog Park
Glencarlyn Dog Park is located at 401 South Harrison Street and closes at sunset. Arlington County identifies this location as unfenced or only partially fenced, so it may not be appropriate for every dog. Owners should also evaluate current stream conditions before allowing dogs into nearby waterways.
9. Benjamin Banneker Dog Park
Benjamin Banneker Park is located at 1680 North Sycamore Street near the East Falls Church Metro station and the Arlington–Falls Church boundary. This location may be convenient for residents comparing Falls Church real estate with western Arlington neighborhoods.
10. Virginia Highlands Interim Dog Park
Virginia Highlands Interim Dog Park is located at 1600 South Hayes Street near Pentagon City. It provides an off-leash option for residents of nearby high-rise and mixed-use communities and closes at sunset.
If you are choosing a condominium with a dog, the nearest park is only one consideration. Review the building’s breed, weight and pet-number restrictions using our Arlington condo pet-policy guide.
Arlington Dog Park Rules to Know
Dogs must remain leashed outside designated dog parks and are never permitted on athletic fields. Arlington County also requires dogs to be licensed and vaccinated. Puppies younger than four months and female dogs in heat are not permitted inside dog parks.
Handlers may bring no more than three dogs, must remain with them and must carry a leash. Dogs showing aggression must be removed immediately. Review the county’s current rules before your first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog parks are in Arlington, Virginia?
Arlington County currently identifies 10 sanctioned dog parks.
Which Arlington dog park has a small-dog area?
Towers Dog Park has a separate area specifically for small dogs.
Are Arlington dog parks fenced?
Most have designated boundaries, but Glencarlyn is identified as unfenced or only partially fenced. Check current conditions before visiting.
Can dogs be off leash in other Arlington parks?
No. Dogs must be leashed unless they are on private property under control or inside a county-sanctioned dog park.
Looking for a Pet-Friendly Home in Arlington?
Dell Residential can help you compare Arlington neighborhoods, condominiums and homes near dog parks, walking trails and everyday amenities.
Browse Arlington homes for sale or explore available Arlington condos for sale.


























