Portage Lakes Dog Park - New Franklin, OH
Portage Lakes Dog Park – A Unique Dog Park in New Franklin, Ohio
Located in the heart of New Franklin, Ohio, Portage Lakes Dog Park is a favorite for pet owners seeking a welcoming, pet-friendly option with beautiful lakefront views. This dog park stands out with a designated swim area where dogs can dive and play in the lake, making it a memorable destination for water-loving pups. There is a dock for adventurous dogs to leap from, and the fence extends into the water, offering a unique, if imperfect, level of safety for both pets and owners.
Portage Lakes Dog Park is wheelchair accessible and offers parking, kid-friendly hiking trails, and shaded picnic tables, making it enjoyable for the whole family. While the fenced area could be more robust and attentive owners are encouraged, especially with high-energy or adventurous pets, local dog owners appreciate the park’s peaceful atmosphere and the ability to socialize or enjoy a quiet lakeside outing. With easy access to basic restrooms nearby and thoughtful features for all visitors, this dog park in New Franklin, Ohio, is worth the visit for any dog owner looking for something special.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash in the designated area.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, there is a fenced area, though it has some gaps by the water that owners should be aware of.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are picnic tables and some benches, although a few more near the water would be helpful.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There are basic outhouses at the nearby regular beach, but no running water.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, the park has a wheelchair accessible entrance and parking lot.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, there is a lake with a dock where dogs can swim and play.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are pet-friendly and kid-friendly hiking trails in the area.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There is some natural shade and picnic tables, but no formal shelter structure.
- Is there parking available? Yes, the park has its own parking lot.
Reviews
Fairly small, but there is dock to jump your puppers off of. The fence extends into the lake, and it’s ok, but 3 of the 4 dogs our group had were able to go around the ends, so it could be longer.
Nice place to let Murdoch run and play in the water. A few other dogs showed up and they had a great time together. I wish there were a few more benches closer to the water.
Make sure your dog has good recall, even through prey drive!
There are holes in the fence in the water.
My dog will find the hole if it exists, and we did not find one outside of the lake opening.
Water is a natural lake with geese, ducks, algae (minimal), and plants. It’s murky.
At first it feels small but once your pup starts running you’ll realize there’s tons of room, the lake opening just isn’t large. I didn’t take photos of all the room behind us.
We had a great experience today. Very peaceful spot. We were mainly by ourselves but the few we did interact with were very nice.
There are bathrooms if you go to the regular people beach there are two outhouses without running water, bring sanitizer. There is also a mcd close to the park entrance.
We went here while they are doing work on bow wow beach in Stow. I think I would go to BWB beach over here, although we will definitely be back!!
We drove a little out of way recently while travelling to southern Ohio to stop here to check out this park with our two dogs. Both dogs are not big water dogs, but the open water and diving dock was a big plus for this location and is definitely a unique feature that we do not have at our local parks. There is some erosion in a few spots due to natural rainwater erosion, so make sure to watch your step, and IF you happen to have a dog with a tendency to stray, this might not be the BEST park since it IS open to water, but use your best judgement on your dog’s preferences.
I bring my dog gear as much as possible during the summer and lob tennis balls out into the lake for him to go get. Always a fun time. Bring sunscreen.