Church Hill Dog Park - Richmond, VA
Church Hill Dog Park – Richmond’s Enclosed Doggy Haven
If you’re searching for a dog park in Richmond, Virginia, look no further than Church Hill Dog Park, conveniently located at 3600 E Grace St. This pet-friendly spot provides fenced, off-leash areas for both small and large dogs, ensuring pups of every size have a safe place to play and socialize. The park is popular among locals for its welcoming community and a dedicated space where dogs can roam free. Owners appreciate the separate sections for small and large breeds, each featuring shaded pavilion shelters and ample seating, making it a comfortable outing for both canines and humans.
Visitors will find running water (seasonally available), fresh water bowls, and even kiddie pools to keep your pet hydrated during hot RVA summers. The park’s surface combines dirt, grass, and a hint of adventure with local wildlife sightseeing, from bald eagles to playful squirrels. While there’s no restroom or wheelchair access, the park is a great spot for your pup to stretch their legs, socialize, and enjoy some Richmond nature. Remember to keep a watchful eye on your pet and practice good dog park etiquette for everyone’s enjoyment!
Church Hill Dog Park FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash in the fenced areas.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the park is fully enclosed with separate fenced sections for small and large dogs.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? Yes, water is provided seasonally via spigots, hoses, bowls, and a puppy pool.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, each dog section offers a shaded pavilion for relief from the sun.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, picnic tables and covered seating are available.
- Is there a separate area for small and large dogs? Yes, there are dedicated areas for small and large dogs, with a gated fence between for safe interaction.
- Are restrooms available for owners? No, there are no restrooms on site.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, the entrance is not wheelchair accessible.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, picnic tables are available for use.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The surface can be dirt and rock, so it may get muddy after rain.
Reviews
My fiance was running near the park this evening and was attacked by a group of dogs off leash and uncontrolled by their owners. They cursed him out and ran away without an apology. Shame on all those involved.
It was my dog’s first visit ever to a dog park and it was a great experience. Friendly people, awesome doggos. People paid attention to their dogs and their interactions.
Fresh water from hoses, water bowls and even a puppy pool were clean-ish as you would expect.
There are some off-leash dogs off in the near distance but they didn’t interfere with leashed dogs.
A good time was had by all.
I run through this area frequently. Tonight there were about 10-12 dogs off leash with their owners nearby. I was attacked by about 5-7 of them and bitten pretty good in the right leg. None of the owners tried to get in between their dogs and me. 2 sets of owners immediately grabbed their dogs after it was over and ran away without checking in or taking accountability. There were 3 sets that stayed back after getting their dogs and checked to see if I was ok. (Thank you for that).
Bottom line is that if your dog attacks someone, that is YOUR responsibility. Why do you not defend the person and then when done, you run away? I am glad I was able to defend myself but I am not sure the next person will. People like you should not own pets. I am sorry for the next people they attack.
Police yourself, hold others accountable. If you are the owner of the animals that attacked me, then I suggest a re-evaluation of your ethos and character.
Best enclosed dog park for ‘small’ dogs in RVA—perfect for little yippers and sausage rolls. The humans are generally conscientious and welcoming; the pups are even better. One side shares a gated fence with the ‘big’ dog side so the little ones can safely interact with the larger dogs. My pom LOVES instigating back-and-forth chases through the fence. It’s his jam.
Keep an eye on the sky because you could spot one of the local bald eagles hunting near the river or transiting through its territory. As of 2024, these sightings are fairly common! You’ll definitely see a hawk or two, which sometimes perch in the adjacent trees and occasionally horrify spectators by mercilessly plucking a squirrel off the ground. Nature, amiright?
Other things to know:
Depending on the time of year, there may not be running water available (the city turns it off during the winter to prevent the pipes from freezing.)
The enclosure’s surface is on a slight slope and is made up of a combination of grass and exposed dirt with rocks, old clay pipe shards, and the occasional broken glass (or even a stone arrowhead, if you’re lucky.) So, wear close-toed shoes and not flip-flops or sandals.
In the summer, you might have share the sun shelter with a few wasp nests, though I’ve never been stung.
Dog park at bottom of hill that is mainly dirt and rock. Picnic tables and shade pavilion in each section (small/large). Water spigot in each section; however, water is still cut off. No restroom on site. Good enough park if your pup needs to stretch their legs.