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10 Dog Parks in Arlington, VA

Dell JeantyDell Jeanty
Sep 10, 2026 4 min read
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10 Dog Parks in Arlington, VA
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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.

Request Arlington Real Estate Information

WRITTEN BY
Dell Jeanty
Dell Jeanty
REALTOR Licensed in MD • VA •DC Real Estate Negotiation Expert

Dell Jeanty is a trusted Northern Virginia REALTOR®featured real estate expert, and founder of Dell Residential at Samson Properties.  He has earned a reputation as a dedicated, trustworthy Northern Virginia REALTOR®. Known for his exceptional client service and deep understanding of the Northern Virginia real estate market, Dell helps buyers and sellers navigate every step of the process with confidence and clarity. His commitment to excellence ensures that every transaction is smooth, seamless, and stress-free.

Whether you’re exploring Arlington homes for sale, investing in Fairfax County real estate, or selling a luxury property in Loudoun County, Dell brings a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs. His attention to detail, expert negotiation skills, and transparent communication have made him a trusted advisor throughout VA, MD, and DC.

Dell, A Northern Realtor, understands that buying or selling a home is more than a financial decision — it’s a life-changing experience. That’s why he provides the tools, market insight, and strategy needed to deliver results. From first-time homebuyers to seasoned investors, Dell Realtor offers a client-first philosophy built on integrity, professionalism, and long-term success.

 
Beyond his real estate career, Dell enjoys exploring local communities, discovering new developments across Northern Virginia, and staying ahead of emerging real estate trends. His regional expertise, community involvement, and passion for helping others make him not only a skilled agent but also a trusted partner on your Northern Virginia real estate journey. Dell Jeanty – Northern Virginia REALTOR

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