South Mountain Big Rock Park - Allentown, PA
South Mountain Big Rock Park: A Pet-Friendly Gem in Allentown, Pennsylvania
Located in the heart of Allentown, South Mountain Big Rock Park offers dog owners and local residents a peaceful spot for on-leash walks and outdoor adventure. Known for its scenic walking paths, unique rock formations, stunning seasonal flowers, and panoramic city overlooks, this park attracts pet lovers seeking dog-friendly hiking and tranquil green space. Visitors especially enjoy the shady trees, flower gardens, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for casual strolls or picnics with your furry companions.
Though not a traditional fenced dog park, dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park. The area is not without flaws—some visitors mention graffiti, broken glass, and litter, so extra caution with pets and children is advised in certain areas. Still, South Mountain Big Rock Park remains a cherished spot for many Allentown locals looking for pet-friendly trails, picturesque photo opportunities, and room to stretch both human and canine legs. Parking is available roadside, and there are benches and picnic spots scattered throughout the grounds. Note that dogs must remain on leash and you’ll need to bring your own waste bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs must remain on leash at all times.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are required to be on leash while visiting South Mountain Big Rock Park.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches and picnic tables throughout the park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There are restrooms at the park and some reviews mention them as open and clean, but availability may vary by season.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are scenic paved and unpaved walking trails throughout the park.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is parking available, typically along the street near the garden entrance.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park has playgrounds, a basketball court, and open fields for kids and families to enjoy.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park features shaded areas under trees and covered picnic pavilions.
Reviews
Local, I live one mile from this park. It is not a park, it is a private area where the owner of the land allows people to visit and hunt. It is a nice walk up a hill that us locals have done since I was a kid. I walk this several times a week. If you want a beutiful park near by check out Lehigh Parkway or Ceder Beach about 2.5 miles away.
Local, I live one mile from this park. It is not a park, it is a private area where the owner of the land allows people to visit and hunt. It is a nice walk up a hill that us locals have done since I was a kid. I walk this several times a week. If you want a beutiful park near by check out Lehigh Parkway or Ceder Beach about 2.5 miles away.
So much graffiti. Felt like I was walking around downtown Philly
So much graffiti. Felt like I was walking around downtown Philly
This would be a cool place but it’s a dump. Broken glass everywhere, trash and alcohol everywhere, graffiti everywhere. The first thing you see as you pull in is the park map with graffiti all over it. This is just a drinking spot for teens.
This would be a cool place but it’s a dump. Broken glass everywhere, trash and alcohol everywhere, graffiti everywhere. The first thing you see as you pull in is the park map with graffiti all over it. This is just a drinking spot for teens.
Nothing I would go out of my way to visit but if you’re in the area and need to kill an hour it could be a nice place to walk around. Its covered in a lot of graffiti and seems like a place some locals come to drink and smoke. You do get a decent overlook and climbing around the rocks is fun.
Nothing I would go out of my way to visit but if you’re in the area and need to kill an hour it could be a nice place to walk around. Its covered in a lot of graffiti and seems like a place some locals come to drink and smoke. You do get a decent overlook and climbing around the rocks is fun.
Not sure if I think the graffiti everywhere is a good or a bad thing. People have been painting on rocks since the beginning of time. The worst thing is it makes some areas slick. Was fun exercise to climb. Could be dangerous not because of all the glass but a fall would definitely hurt. Nice short hike. Climbing got some different muscles engaged.
Not sure if I think the graffiti everywhere is a good or a bad thing. People have been painting on rocks since the beginning of time. The worst thing is it makes some areas slick. Was fun exercise to climb. Could be dangerous not because of all the glass but a fall would definitely hurt. Nice short hike. Climbing got some different muscles engaged.