Paw Paw River County Park - Watervliet,
Paw Paw River County Park: A Pet-Friendly Outdoor Destination in Watervliet, MI
Located in the heart of Watervliet, Paw Paw River County Park is the perfect destination for dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This dog-friendly park in Watervliet offers a scenic, easy-to-navigate one-mile loop trail that winds around a peaceful island surrounded by the beautiful Paw Paw River. The park is well known for its pet-friendly hiking trails and accessibility, featuring both concrete and boardwalk surfaces, making it a great spot for families, kids, and individuals with mobility needs.
The park stands out with its unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit—visitors often find painted rocks hidden by locals, and seasonal trinkets crafted from native stones. Amenities include benches for relaxing along the river, a kayak launch, free parking, and accessible pathways. Dogs are welcome on leash, making this trail a favorite for both local residents and visitors looking for a dog-friendly walk near Paw Paw River. Adjacent to Hayes Park and close to Flaherty Park, it’s easy to extend your visit or explore more nearby trails.
FAQ: Paw Paw River County Park
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are welcome but must remain on leash at all times.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? All dogs must be leashed while visiting the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, the park offers wheelchair accessible entrances and parking lots, with well-maintained boardwalk and compacted paths. Be mindful that some paths may contain small dips.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, benches and resting spots are available throughout the trail for relaxation or enjoying the scenery.
- Are restrooms available for owners? During the open season, portable restrooms are available near the main parking lot.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park is family-friendly and adjacent to Hayes Park, with additional recreation options in the area.
- Is there parking available? Yes, free parking is available on site; note that the main lot may be closed in the off season, but a small lot remains accessible.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features a one-mile loop trail and is close to other nearby trails and parks.
Reviews
Great place to walk with my dog.
Very nice, short loop trail around an island surrounded by the Paw Paw River. Great place to take kids. Quite often you can find small rocks painted and hidden by a group called, Watervliet Rocks. And occasionally, there are “trinkets” to find. Around holidays, a very kind and talented lady, ( I believe her name is Kristy Ruth Murdoch) makes small things using Petoskey aor Pudding stones
Paw Paw River Trail in Watervliet, it’s a great little 1 mile trail. It’s one of my favorite local trails in SWMI. During the off season there is a very small parking lot as the main parking lot is closed for season. During their open period there is porta johns otherwise you have to hold it.
It has a kayak launch and is dog leashed friendly. It looks around and is available to fish on as well. We went Sunday and enjoyed the great brisk morning and blue skies. This trail is sooo pretty during all the seasons we saw a ton of chipmunks and squirrels. Benches throughout the trail to do contemplation or just to watch the river flow.
This is semi handicap accessible there are some concrete then boardwalk then crush compacted concrete. The compacted is very well maintained but keep in mind there is a small dip that could make a chair accelerated or reversed harder to go up.
It’s located right on Main Street next to Hayes Park there is another park just down the way you can get in another 1/4 in on the same side of the road called Flaherty. It’s a great little trail in a great town, parking is always free. Happy trails go out and explore.
Recently moved back “home” to the area and have thoroughly enjoyed this park! Our kiddos and pup love to walk the trails as we hid and search for painted rocks.
Cool little hiking trail that changes with every season. Bridges and lookouts, gravel pathways, tons of wildflowers in season and an occasional deer. Kid friendly, dog friendly. About one mile of trails. Port a John’s, and decent parking lot. Kayak launch is handicap accessible.