Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Portland (PDX): Top Picks for 2025

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amirahvasquez

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Portland, Oregon, is known for its dog-friendly culture, and one of the best ways to enjoy quality time with your furry friend is by visiting an off-leash dog park. Off-leash parks give dogs the freedom to roam, socialize, and burn off energy, while providing owners with a space to relax and watch their pets enjoy the great outdoors. If you're in Portland (PDX) and looking for the best off-leash dog parks, we’ve compiled a list of the top spots where your dog can run free and have a blast!

This guide highlights the best off-leash dog parks in Portland, focusing on features like size, amenities, safety, and dog-friendly atmosphere to help you find the perfect place for your next adventure.

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Why Choose an Off-Leash Dog Park?​

Off-leash dog parks are an excellent way to:

  • Promote Socialization: Your dog will have the opportunity to interact with other dogs, which is crucial for developing good social skills.
  • Burn Off Energy: Dogs need physical exercise to stay healthy. An off-leash park allows them to run, jump, and explore, helping prevent behavior problems caused by pent-up energy.
  • Enhance Bonding: Visiting a dog park is a great way to bond with your pet while letting them experience the joy of freedom in a controlled environment.
  • Meet Other Dog Owners: Dog parks foster a sense of community among dog owners, allowing you to meet fellow pet lovers and share tips or simply chat.

Top 5 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Portland (PDX)​

1. Sellwood Riverfront Park​

Best for Scenic Views and Socialization

  • Location: 1300 SE Spokane St, Portland, OR 97202
  • Size: 8.5 acres
  • Features: Fenced off-leash area, scenic waterfront views, shaded areas
Sellwood Riverfront Park is one of Portland's most popular off-leash dog parks, thanks to its spacious 8.5-acre fenced area and picturesque location along the Willamette River. The park provides ample space for dogs to run freely, and its natural surroundings offer plenty of shade, perfect for warm weather visits. The waterfront views also make it an ideal spot for pet owners who want to relax while watching their dogs play.

Pros:

  • Gorgeous riverfront views
  • Spacious off-leash area for dogs to roam
  • Lots of shade and green space
  • Easily accessible from downtown Portland
Cons:

  • Can get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends
  • Limited amenities (no dog drinking fountains)
Why It’s Great: Sellwood Riverfront Park stands out for its stunning setting, ample space, and great social atmosphere for both dogs and their owners.

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2. Normandale Park​

Best for Families and Active Dogs

  • Location: 6400 NE 41st Ave, Portland, OR 97211
  • Size: 9.5 acres
  • Features: Large off-leash area, trails, picnic tables, and playgrounds
Normandale Park is a fantastic location for families with dogs. With a spacious 9.5-acre off-leash dog park, dogs of all sizes can enjoy running around, playing fetch, and socializing. The park also has several walking trails that are perfect for a post-play walk. While your dog enjoys their off-leash freedom, you can take advantage of the picnic tables and shaded spots to relax.

Pros:

  • Large off-leash area with a variety of terrains
  • Great for families (picnic tables, playground)
  • Plenty of walking trails to explore
  • Well-maintained grounds
Cons:

  • Can be busy on weekends and holidays
  • Limited shade in some areas
Why It’s Great: Normandale Park offers the perfect mix of dog-friendly space, trails, and amenities for families looking to spend time together while giving their dogs a good workout.

3. Hillsdale Dog Park​

Best for Small and Medium Dogs

  • Location: 6345 SW 18th Dr, Portland, OR 97239
  • Size: 1.5 acres
  • Features: Fully fenced, separated small dog area, water fountains
Hillsdale Dog Park is a smaller, but incredibly popular off-leash dog park located in Southwest Portland. It features two separate areas—one for small dogs and another for larger dogs—ensuring that each dog has a safe and enjoyable playtime experience. The park also includes water fountains to keep your dog hydrated on warm days.

Pros:

  • Separate areas for small and large dogs
  • Fully fenced and safe
  • Clean and well-maintained with water fountains
  • Good for dog owners looking for a quieter park
Cons:

  • Smaller in size compared to other parks on the list
  • Can get crowded during peak hours
Why It’s Great: Hillsdale Dog Park’s separation of small and large dogs ensures that all dogs can socialize in a safe and controlled environment, making it a top pick for owners of smaller breeds.

4. Alberta Park​

Best for Urban Dog Lovers

  • Location: 1905 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97212
  • Size: 1.5 acres
  • Features: Fenced off-leash area, community events, dog-friendly amenities
Located in the heart of Northeast Portland, Alberta Park offers an off-leash dog park in a vibrant urban setting. This park features a fully fenced area where dogs can run free and interact with other pups. Alberta Park is known for hosting community events, which makes it a fun and social spot for dog owners and their pets.

Pros:

  • Located in a lively, urban neighborhood
  • Hosts dog-friendly community events
  • Well-maintained and clean
  • Convenient access for local residents
Cons:

  • Smaller than some of the other parks on this list
  • Limited space for dogs to roam compared to larger parks
Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for a dog park with a community vibe and you live in or near Northeast Portland, Alberta Park is a fantastic choice for urban dog lovers.


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5. Trenton Park​

Best Hidden Gem for Peace and Quiet

  • Location: 9000 NW 101st Ave, Portland, OR 97229
  • Size: 5 acres
  • Features: Quiet location, fenced off-leash area, walking trails
Trenton Park is a lesser-known but highly recommended off-leash dog park located in Northwest Portland. This hidden gem offers a spacious and peaceful environment for both dogs and their owners. The park’s 5-acre off-leash area is fully fenced, and there are walking trails for a nice stroll with your dog after they’ve burned off some energy.

Pros:

  • Peaceful and quiet, ideal for relaxed visits
  • Spacious, fully fenced area
  • Great for dogs who prefer a calmer environment
  • Beautiful walking trails
Cons:

  • Not as centrally located, so it’s less convenient for some people
  • Fewer amenities compared to larger parks
Why It’s Great: Trenton Park is perfect for dog owners looking for a peaceful, less crowded spot to enjoy nature and let their dogs roam free.

What to Look for in an Off-Leash Dog Park​

When choosing an off-leash dog park in Portland, consider the following features:

  • Size and Space: Larger parks give dogs more room to run and play. Look for parks with ample space for your dog to socialize and explore.
  • Safety and Fencing: A securely fenced area is essential to keep your dog safe, especially if they’re social and enjoy running around.
  • Amenities: Amenities such as water fountains, shaded areas, and waste disposal stations make your visit more convenient and comfortable.
  • Crowd Size: Some parks can get crowded during peak times, which might be overwhelming for your dog. Visit during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience.

Conclusion: The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Portland​

Portland offers an abundance of off-leash dog parks that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you're looking for a scenic park with waterfront views like Sellwood Riverfront Park or a quiet, peaceful environment at Trenton Park, there’s a perfect spot for every dog and owner.

For an all-around great experience, Normandale Park stands out with its large off-leash area and family-friendly amenities. Hillsdale Dog Park is ideal for those with smaller dogs who need a safe and separate space. Whatever your preferences, these dog parks are sure to provide a fun, safe, and engaging environment for you and your pup to enjoy.

Happy dog park adventures!

Related Articles:

  • Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Portland
  • Tips for Socializing Your Dog at a Dog Park
  • How to Keep Your Dog Safe at Off-Leash Parks
 
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