Carlson Park - Riverside, CA
Carlson Park: Riverside’s Scenic Dog Park Destination
Located at the base of Mount Rubidoux, Carlson Park is a well-loved dog park in Riverside, California, offering spacious, fenced-in areas for both large and small dogs. The park is known for its scenic setting, access to pet-friendly hiking trails, and its quiet, community-focused atmosphere. Visitors will find an abundance of natural shade, benches for pet owners, and well-marked, double-gated entrances to ensure dogs can safely play off-leash within their designated spaces.
Dog owners appreciate the separate areas for small and large breeds, water fountains (though sometimes in need of repair), poop bags, and trash bins, which help keep the park clean. With hills, grassy run spaces, and a close-knit community of regulars, Carlson Park stands out among Riverside dog parks for its combination of exercise and relaxation near popular outdoor recreation trails. Please note: the parking lot is often shared with hikers and fills quickly, and while there are porta-potty restrooms nearby, wheelchair accessibility may be limited due to uneven ground.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash within the fenced dog park areas.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the entire dog park is securely fenced.
- Is there a separate area for small and large dogs? Yes, there are designated sections for both small and large dogs, with their own entrances and gates.
- Are water fountains or bowls for dogs available? Yes, water fountains are available, though the one for dogs may occasionally be out of order.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? Yes, poop bags and trash stations are available to help owners clean up after their pets.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There is natural shade from trees and a shaded area for small dogs.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, benches are available in both large and small dog sections.
- Is there parking available? Yes, parking is available in a shared lot, but it can be limited during busy times.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are pet-friendly hiking trails nearby that make this spot popular among Riverside hikers and walkers.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Porta-potty bathrooms are nearby, but no permanent public restrooms are located within the park itself.
Reviews
Large and maintained dog park. Plenty of room for big dogs with separate but ample room for smaller ones.
Nice park with good shade. I just wish it was meant for smaller dogs since my dog is on the small end. However, the big dogs were generally friendly for the ones my dog met. Just they have giant poop, and for the day after a maintenance, there’s still quite a bit of poop unfortunately. 🙁
Be prepared to pick up other people’s dog pooh. I guess you have to get used to being a father to other irresponsible people that don’t know basic civic duties. Not surprised. I do it often now. Trash all over the world and not many people take pride in their communities. The world has no need for the weak individuals who add nothing to society. Stay home and figure things out.
What do the dog park with my two little doggies. The dog park is very large, there are two separate entrances to two separate parts of the dog park. There is one large area for large dogs, one shaded area for small dogs, one small area for training dogs. The park is at the base of Mount rubidoux and so the parking lot is full with people going hiking. When we went we saw a person washing their shoes and feet in the water fountain. The park is littered with dirty diapers, dirty bandages, use needles, and a whole lot of trash. There weren’t any homeless people hanging out at the park but this is close to a bridge which houses a homeless encampment underneath. The water fountain how to spot for dogs to drink water but it leaks so the dogs couldn’t get a sip. No public restrooms. There were no other dogs when we went either.
If you have a dog and want to have your pup mingle. Then this is a good place to visit. For those who love hiking, a hiking trail is located just a few steps from there. It’s very peaceful and a very enjoyable trail.