University City Dog Park (Membership Only) - University City, MO
University City Dog Park – The Premier Membership Dog Park in University City, Missouri
Nestled conveniently at 6860 Vernon Ave, University City Dog Park is a spacious, well-loved spot for local dog owners searching for a secure dog park in University City, Missouri. This membership-only park offers three fully enclosed areas catering to dogs of different sizes and energy levels, making it a standout destination for social pups and their owners. The community atmosphere is inviting, with regular friendly gatherings—including a Friday “happy hour” around their cozy fire pit!
The University City Dog Park features amenities such as separate areas for small and large dogs, water stations (seasonally available), kiddie pools, a bath tub, plenty of shade, and doggy essentials like poop bags and waste bins. While non-residents are welcome (for a slightly higher annual fee), members praise both the safety and camaraderie of this fenced, off-leash environment. Note that certain breed restrictions apply (pit bull breeds are not permitted), and maintenance is ongoing to ensure the park remains one of the top dog-friendly places near St. Louis.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash in the secured areas.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? Yes, the entire dog park is securely fenced.
- Are there breed or size restrictions at this dog park? Yes, there is a breed restriction—pit bull breeds are not permitted.
- Are there water fountains or bowls for dogs? Yes, water fountains and bowls are provided (water may be off during winter).
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there is shade and a fire pit for cool weather comfort.
- Are poop bags or waste stations provided? Yes, poop bags and trash bins are conveniently available.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there is seating available for owners.
- Is there a separate area for small and large dogs? Yes, there are distinctly separate sections for small and large dogs, plus a quieter grassy area for less social dogs.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? Yes, an annual membership (available to residents and non-residents) is required to access the park.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Yes, the park is maintained, though occasional repairs and improvements are ongoing.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There are kiddie pools and sprinklers for the dogs to play in during warmer months, but no large pond or lake.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Certain areas, especially with sprinkler leaks, can become muddy, and standing water may attract mosquitoes.
Reviews
Stating the inconvenient (obvious) disclaimer: yes, membership is required to get the gate code to come inside. Now, onto the rest!
Sometimes the big dogs can be rowdy, but I’ve never seen any serious altercations, and there is a separate area for small & low-energy dogs. The dog owners have formed a pretty tight community, which is lovely, especially because they are very welcoming to new folks.
Lastly: I hope the city will *finally* repair the large area that hasn’t been usable because of old flood damage!
Fountains for the dogs when it’s hot, firepit for the humans when it’s cold. This is a great dog park and is totally worth the annual membership fee that you pay at the city hall. You don’t have to be a U-city resident, but then the fee is slightly higher. They shut the water off in the winter to prevent the pipes from freezing, so when it’s that cold you have to bring water with you.
Great place to take your dog! Three enclosed areas with dog essentials (water bowl, poop bags) though water can be variable during the winter based on temperatures. People are friendly and our dog loves coming here.
They do have a pit bull breed ban unfortunately.
I love this dog park. Completely worth the membership price. Lots of room for being right in the middle of U-city. They provide tennis balls and Chuck-its and some water features.
I really wish they’d fix the water leak form the sprinkler line(s) in the medium play area. The standing water and mud attracts mosquitoes. However, you don’t have much to worry about if you have a large dog–the large dog area is very well maintained and lovely, with kiddie pools. Great place either way.
Would love more enrichment/climbing areas for the dogs. My little one loves it either way.
Such a great park for dogs to run free and play in!! My dog has made so many friends and so have I! Everyone here is so friendly… there’s even a “happy hour” on Fridays and there’s a fire pit that they light once it gets cooler. There’s a small dog area, a big dog area and a grassy spot for less social dogs. My only issue is that a lot of people with small dogs allow them to play on the big dog side and I feel it can be a liability. They have little pools and a sprinkler system for the dogs to play in… they also have a tub for baths and doggy bags and trash cans for convenience. It’s honestly the best dog park I’ve ever been to. We about had to sell our soul to become members… but it was worth it.