🐾 Kids at the Dog Park: Real Stories, Safety Risks & Smarter Solutions
If you’ve spent time at an off-leash park, you’ve probably seen it:A parent strolls in with a stroller 🚼 or […]
Located in the heart of Okemos, Michigan, the Meridian Township Private Large Dog Park offers a fantastic destination for dog owners seeking ample room and nature-filled surroundings for their furry friends. The park features a spacious, fully fenced area designed specifically for dogs over 30 pounds, ensuring plenty of space for large breeds to run and socialize off-leash. With both open grassy fields and wooded trails, plus connection to the wider Central Park South network of paved and rustic pet-friendly trails, there are abundant opportunities for dog-friendly hiking and exercise.
This is a members-only, private dog park, requiring a fob for secure entry, which ensures a safe and controlled environment. Membership is available for Meridian residents at a reasonable annual fee, and all dogs must have a valid license and rabies certificate. Amenities include picnic tables, accessible parking, and friendly, community-minded dog owners. Although there are both paved and woodland paths, be prepared for some muddy spots after rain, and note that shelter and water facilities are limited.
I’ve always taken photos here and walked the trails. Love it.
Beware, this not a public park. Members only, the entrance gate requires a fob. We stopped en route from Vermont to Clare so our Aussie Doodle could have some fun off leash after many hours in the car. I saw the park in Google Maps and it didn’t occur to me read through the reviews to find out it was a private park. We’ve visited dog parks in other cities and haven’t encountered a locked private one before. Google should label this , ‘Private Dog Park’ on the map.
Pros: This is a well maintained dog park with friendly dog owners and the vast majority of dogs are great. There are a few short trails through the woods. Dog-owners take care of their dogs here.
Cons: You have to either cross a busy street or walk a little ways to get to the dog park entrance. Additionally, it would be super nice in the winter months to have a little shelter built to at least block the wind and/or cover the picnic tables.
Great place to take your dog with a nice group of dogs and people. Access to the park is limited to membership and a trek through the woods or across a very busy street. Also, mudholes could be filled, drainage problems could be corrected and burrs could be eliminated, but otherwise a really great park.
What a great community resource! Lots of room for dogs to run, both open grass & woods. There a are even some trails for people if you want to get your steps in. My dogs have a great time every visit! As a bonus, the dog park is part of Central Park South that is filled with paved and rustic trails for extra walk options. A couple FYI’s so you aren’t surprised when u get there: 1. There is a locked gate & you need a fob. It’s only NULL per year to join for Meridian residents so it’s a deal. In order to get a fob, you need a dog license and a rabies cert. This makes sure all dogs have the safest experience, which is great. 2. This park is only for dogs over 30 pounds. If you have a young puppy, there is a small dog park less than a mile away. Come and give it a try!