Garth Nature Area Dog Park - Columbia, MO
Garth Nature Area Dog Park – A Dog-Friendly Haven in Columbia, Missouri
If you are searching for a fun, accessible dog park in Columbia, Missouri, Garth Nature Area Dog Park is a must-visit spot. This spacious, fenced park features scenic trails that circle a pond, offering a combination of dog-friendly hiking and plenty of open room for your pup to run, play, and socialize. Shaded areas and ample benches allow pet owners to relax while their dogs explore.
The park is known for its natural beauty, with lots of trees, picnic tables, and a wind shelter for extra comfort. There is a small pond where some dogs enjoy swimming or cooling off (though the water may be mucky at times), and gravel paths help reduce mud. The park also offers wheelchair accessible entrances and parking, making it inclusive for all visitors. Public restrooms and kid-friendly hiking trails make this an excellent destination for the whole family.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs can be off-leash inside the fenced area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the dog park is fully fenced for safety.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park features plenty of tree shade and even a wind shelter similar to those at bus stops.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, several benches and picnic tables are available throughout the park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available near the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, both the entrance and parking area are wheelchair accessible.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are pet-friendly trails and paths encircling the pond.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, there is a small pond where dogs can swim or cool off.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The park can get muddy, although gravel has been added to help reduce mud in key areas.
- What should I do if there’s an aggressive dog? Be aware of other owners, as some may not properly supervise aggressive dogs. It’s best to stay vigilant and remove your dog if a situation arises.
- Are there trash bins or waste stations? There are trash bins available, although users suggest bringing your own waste bags.
Reviews
Very pleasant dog park with trail around a large pond, lots of shade and several benches. The pond is mucky this time of year, with a small pump working hard to circulate the water. Our dog had fun away from the pond.
I love this dog park! However, there are occasionally neglectful owners. There was once a pitbull with a shock collar and she attacked 2 dogs. The owner completely disregarded the other owners and didn’t acknowledge that his dog was aggressive at all. Overall, the park is great and my dog has a good time, but just be aware that not all humans are good owners.
This is a nice, large area where dogs can have fun. I never let Lacey go off leash in any dog Park (we’ve only been to a handful) unless there are no other dogs present, but she’s content staying on her leash. There is a pond there, and some people evidently let their dogs play in it, but I didn’t like the look of the water, so no swimming for Lacey there. We did enjoy walking the path which encircles the pond, however. We also liked all the shady areas.
So close to a 5! The space is great it just isn’t up-kept as well as it could be. There is a great pond for the dogs to cool down from running. Lots of gravel to help with mud but it’s in need of additional loads. Lots of open space for running. Picnic tables and benches for sitting. Trees for shade. There’s even a wind shelter like you’d typically see at a bus stop. Several trees are in desperate need of trimming. There’s a fair bit of waste from other patrons, unfortunately. I get it. Funding only goes so far. I just picked up a bucket to take with us. My lab loves to bring me all the trash she finds and now I’ll have someplace to put it. Maybe after a while they can just make her an official park cleaner. Either way I love taking my pup to get her energy out, make some pupper friends, and now clean up together!
Dog park large and secure with a border fence. Small pond inside. It is a good place for dogs to run and play.
I wished the entrance was visible from seating area because entering dogs may not be friendly and or need properly introduced to avoid dog fights and injury.