Sheffield Reservoir - Santa Barbara, CA

Sheffield Reservoir - Santa Barbara, CA Sheffield Reservoir - Santa Barbara, CA Sheffield Reservoir - Santa Barbara, CA Sheffield Reservoir - Santa Barbara, CA Sheffield Reservoir - Santa Barbara, CA
Off Leash

Sheffield Reservoir Dog Park in Santa Barbara, California

Sheffield Reservoir offers one of the largest open spaces for dogs and their owners in Santa Barbara, California. With its sprawling natural setting and maze of pet-friendly trails, this dog park is prized for its off-leash policy and scenic views. The terrain features native foliage, wildflowers in season, and a relaxed environment perfect for enjoying nature with your furry friend. Although formerly an above-ground reservoir, today Sheffield is a spacious park beloved by locals for dog-friendly hiking and open play.

Dog owners frequent Sheffield Reservoir for its laid-back atmosphere and ample room for running, though it is important to remain aware of leash requirements and dog interactions. The park does not have restrooms or a fenced area, but regular maintenance keeps it inviting and clean. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll or a spot for energetic dogs to play, Sheffield Reservoir offers a top-tier outdoor experience for pets and people alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, many visitors regularly bring their dogs for off-leash experiences due to the vast openness of the park.
  • What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are expected to be under control, and signs indicate leash requirements. However, many allow off-leash play as long as dogs are well-trained and sight/sound responsive.
  • Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the park is well-maintained by staff, as noted by frequent visitors.
  • Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there is a maze of trails to enjoy with your dog, and the park is popular for dog-friendly hiking.
  • Are restrooms available for owners? No, there are no bathroom facilities at this park.

Reviews

Dave Kerr

Monique Ramon and Alex do a fine job on keeping Sheffield reservoir in top shelf

Dave Kerr

Monique Ramon and Alex do a fine job on keeping Sheffield reservoir in top shelf

Dave Kerr

Monique Ramon and Alex do a fine job on keeping Sheffield reservoir in top shelf

Dorothy Sullivan

A maze of trails to enjoy with your dog! Lots of wildflowers.

Dorothy Sullivan

A maze of trails to enjoy with your dog! Lots of wildflowers.

Dorothy Sullivan

A maze of trails to enjoy with your dog! Lots of wildflowers.

Ryan Carberry

This place is literally, my front yard, and has been for 50 years. When I was a kid, all my friends thought I had the biggest swimming pool in town! That was back when the reservoir was still ABOVE ground… now that it’s all BELOW ground, in my opinion, it’s the best (and biggest, dog park in town! My dog, Chester, the cutest golden retriever you’ll ever meet, visits this park at least twice per week, and he can enjoy an off leash experience, due to the vast openness that’s available, in a truly natural setting, without too much worry of invading other’s experience.
Inspite of the lack of bathroom facilities, I still give it 5-stars! Get out and experience nature first hand, with its native foliage and birds alike, for yourself and shake off the urban stresses, by taking your own nature walk at Sheffield Reservoir. It’ll do your mind, body and spirit a ton of good!

Ryan Carberry

This place is literally, my front yard, and has been for 50 years. When I was a kid, all my friends thought I had the biggest swimming pool in town! That was back when the reservoir was still ABOVE ground… now that it’s all BELOW ground, in my opinion, it’s the best (and biggest, dog park in town! My dog, Chester, the cutest golden retriever you’ll ever meet, visits this park at least twice per week, and he can enjoy an off leash experience, due to the vast openness that’s available, in a truly natural setting, without too much worry of invading other’s experience.
Inspite of the lack of bathroom facilities, I still give it 5-stars! Get out and experience nature first hand, with its native foliage and birds alike, for yourself and shake off the urban stresses, by taking your own nature walk at Sheffield Reservoir. It’ll do your mind, body and spirit a ton of good!

Ryan Carberry

This place is literally, my front yard, and has been for 50 years. When I was a kid, all my friends thought I had the biggest swimming pool in town! That was back when the reservoir was still ABOVE ground… now that it’s all BELOW ground, in my opinion, it’s the best (and biggest, dog park in town! My dog, Chester, the cutest golden retriever you’ll ever meet, visits this park at least twice per week, and he can enjoy an off leash experience, due to the vast openness that’s available, in a truly natural setting, without too much worry of invading other’s experience.
Inspite of the lack of bathroom facilities, I still give it 5-stars! Get out and experience nature first hand, with its native foliage and birds alike, for yourself and shake off the urban stresses, by taking your own nature walk at Sheffield Reservoir. It’ll do your mind, body and spirit a ton of good!

Jamie Rosenthal

Nice place for quick pretty walk with the dogs. Was hoping to avoid foxtails, instead there were those round things with little spikes on the path that kept getting into my dog’s paws. Better during non sticker/foxtail season. Could not extend the walk at this time due to stickers and burrs, darn. All depends on the type of hair or fur your pup has.

Worst however were several semi-agressive dogs not under good control. We avoided any entanglements but would like to see other walkers with stressed dogs keep them on leash and practice training to help these canines be more relaxed.

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