Dog walking in Rio Verde

Central Rio Verde

If you’re looking to enjoy a mutts-needed retreat by the lake, you’re in the right spot! Rio Verde is home to the Bartlett Lake Marina, located in the Tonto National Forest. Here, you’ll find more than just the op-paw-tunity to play in the water: you can choose between two pet-friendly boat rentals! These are pontoons you can use to explore the 2,800-acre lake. When entering the dock, your pooch needs to be on a leash. Since you will be on the water, you will want to bring food and drinks for you and your pup. You may also want to bring a couple of life jackets along, just to be safe.

E Virginia St/N Norwalk

The designated dog area at the Quail Run Sports Complex is located about 45 minutes southwest of Rio Verde, but once you’re here, you’ll see what everyone’s barking about! The off-leash, fenced-in dog park has all the amenities you’d expect from a pawesome park: separate areas for large and small dogs, lush grass, waste cleanup bags, drinking water, and plenty of room to romp. The larger park is home to sports fields and other human amenities. The dog park is closed every Thursday for maintenance, so keep that in mind when visiting. Dogs are welcome in other areas of the park, provided they are on leash.

Villa Paradise

This neighborhood is home to the Paradise Valley Dog Park, which is located 42 miles from Rio Verde. This grassy, off-leash dog park spans 2.4 acres, and provides a beautiful view as well as shade trees. You’ll find separate areas for large and small dogs here, both with double-gated entrances. There are also benches and drinking fountains available, but you’ll need to bring your own waste bags. This park is located within the larger Paradise Park; if you want to explore the community park with your pooch, you’ll need to bring a leash.

Chateau de Vie

Just 31 miles southwest of Rio Verde, you’ll find yet another wonderful dog park, the Chaparral Park. This huge park has two separate sections for your pup, but these are separated by activity level rather than dog size. Both areas encompass a total of 3 acres, giving your pooch plenty of space to play. However, this isn’t an off-leash park, so bring a leash along if you want to play here. Seating, shade, water fountains, and agility equipment are just a few of the amenities you’ll find at this dog park. You’ll need to bring your own waste bags, though. This is a great place for your fur baby to make some new friends!

Papago Park Center

Papago Park is so much more than your average park. Not only is a great place to get some exercise, but it also has a gorgeous view of the red rock formations this area is famous for. It’s also part of a large natural area which includes the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, the Rolling Hill Golf Course, and countless walking and biking paths. As if that weren’t enough, the park is also home to a designated dog park! The fenced area allows dogs to play and romp off-leash. Just be sure to practice good petiquette and clean up after your pal. You wouldn’t want to spoil this beautiful natural area! And don’t forget to bring a leash if you want to explore the many walking trails here.