Frenchtown Park and Frye Nature Preserve - East Greenwich, RI
Frenchtown Park and Frye Nature Preserve offers a wonderful escape for dog owners seeking pet-friendly trails and dog-friendly hiking in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. This scenic spot is well-loved for its easy woodland trails, historic mill foundations, ponds, and abundant wildlife. While it is not a traditional fenced dog park, many locals bring their dogs here for leashed walks and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, scenic bridges, and views along the water.
The park features numerous walking trails suitable for short or longer visits, open natural areas, benches, and ample parking. Visitors praise the park for its year-round access, shaded pathways, picnic spots, and its appeal to both families and canine companions. It’s important to note that, although the park is dog-friendly, rules require dogs to be leashed—even though enforcement is lax and some visitors may allow dogs off-leash. The park is a relaxing destination for a stroll, bird watching, fishing, or enjoying time with your pup.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are supposed to be leashed at this park, though some visitors allow their dogs off-leash despite posted rules.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must be on-leash, according to park signage and local law.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there are no enclosed or fenced areas for off-leash dog play.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are benches and picnic tables throughout the park.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple hiking and nature trails through woodlands and around the pond.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There are ponds and water access points, and some dogs do swim, but these are not officially designated dog swim areas.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the park is open 24/7 all year, with no entrance fee.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park includes a playground and picnic area, making it family friendly.
- Where is the best place to park? There is ample parking near the trailhead behind the parks department building.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Some trail areas may be muddy after rainfall; good walking shoes are recommended.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park has many shaded areas thanks to tall trees.
Reviews
Had a lot of fun here. Easy trails, good for kids. Some old foundations that were cool to look at.
Such a gorgeous hike. Especially in autumn. 🍁
If you are doing the loop from Frenchtown to Fry and back, be aware that you will have to walk on and around larger rocks as well as many roots.
Lovely small woodlands with several trails, ponds, and a few benches. Good for a short walk, wildflowers and birds. The trail is rough in spots and could be muddy in spots after a rain. Trail head can be hard to find.bit is behind the parks department building.
A great spot for a leisurely, easily accessible walk through the woods. Enough trails for up to three or more hours of quiet exploring. A half-hour visit would also be very pleasant, if you’re short on time. There is one staircase to descend at the entrance to the trail area. Otherwise the main trail is reasonably well-groomed and fairly level, as shown in the photos. It could be used with a stroller with large wheels (especially the three-wheeled type). Other trails are narrower, with somewhat bumpier surfaces and mild grades. Still nothing challenging. The trails all start at a large mill pond, with bridges over waterfalls. Then trails are mostly through the woods, with occasional views of several interesting stone foundations from former mill buildings and a network of abandoned stone-lined water channels. It’s interesting to speculate on how the water was diverted to run the mills. The main trail parallels a shallow brook with rapidly running water most of the year. Dog-friendly. Lots of parking. Enjoy!
Lovely trails. I spent about an hour and a half here and almost walked all of the trails. Lots of little nooks to explore. Dog friendly as long as they are leashed. Not crowded at all. They are open 24/7 even Sundays and there is no fee. My pup and I had a delightful time!!