🐾 Kids at the Dog Park: Real Stories, Safety Risks & Smarter Solutions
If you’ve spent time at an off-leash park, you’ve probably seen it:A parent strolls in with a stroller 🚼 or […]
Located on Johnston Road in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Fort Belvoir Dog Park offers a welcoming spot for pups and their owners to unwind with beautiful distant water views across from the Potomac River’s Accotink Bay. With its grassy, fully fenced area and a backdrop of trees for shade, this dog park provides a convenient and quiet environment rarely crowded—even on sunny days.
Owners will appreciate the picnic tables, bench seating, agility hurdles for exercise or basic training, and easy access to pet-friendly hiking trails nearby. Waste bins and provided poop bags help keep the area clean, while accessible pathways and parking make visiting easy for everyone, including those with mobility needs. The park’s casual setting, proximity to the Outdoor Recreation Center, and scenic views make it a favorite for local dog parents seeking a low-key, dog-friendly outing.
PRO: 1. Not crowded; ours was the only dog there on a warm sunny afternoon in winter. 2. There are several tables with trees/shade, 3. Waste bins and plastic bags are available. 3. Pretty water-view setting across from the Potomac River’s Accotink Bay. CON: 1. Spent first 20 minutes picking up half a dozen piles of poop others had left/missed so our dog would not be tempted to roll in it. 2. Ramshackle fence leans drunkenly around the park — we tested it in several spots to make sure it would not immediately fail. 3. Maintenance is needed to fill several large holes that could be a safety hazard.
It is a large enough area for all size dogs to play in. They even have some hurdles inside the park if you want to exercise or train your dog. For the dog owners a few picnic tables are set up while your dogs play. They either replaced or painted the hole fence since the last time I took my 3 dogs there.
The only negative thing I would have to commend on is that not all dog owners clean up after there pets so it’s good look on the ground every now and then to avoid stepping into something unfavorable.
It’s a nice little park with grass, obstacles, and picnic tables. The gates to get in are a bit rickety. The latch isn’t made for the barn door style. Big dogs may find the space a bit small with no good area for a run or long toss. Small dogs can fit under the outer gate of the man trap – I saw it happen. It’s a good thing the area wasn’t busy. Bring your own water.
Small enclosed space, that has bench seating and trash receptacles. Great views of waterfront in the distance. Also surrounded by picnic area, hiking trails and Outdoor Recreation Center is steps away.
It’s a cute area to let your dog loose! Every time I go, it’s never crowded. Usually at most one other dog is there. This park provides poop bags!