Dog walking in Oakdale

Central Waterford

If you drive just 20 minutes south of Oakdale, you'll arrive in the Central Waterford neighborhood of Waterford, Connecticut. This area is home to shopping centers and parks, including an off-leash dog park. The Stenger Farm Dog Park is found in this area, and it includes sections for big and small dogs. Some visitors note there isn't much shade at the park, so be sure to remember your hat and sunscreen. You'll also want to bring drinking water as there isn't any on-site. Surrounding the dog park are four trails that range in intensity from moderate to difficult, and you can hike them with your dog when they're on a leash.

Center Groton

A great way to spend a couple of hours with your dog is to make the 14-mile drive to central Groton, Connecticut and the Copp Family Park. This 240-acre park has fields and meadows galore to explore, and it's surrounded by forests and wetlands. Within this space, there's also an off-leash park known as Central Bark Dog Park. There's a large area for dogs of all sizes to interact, as well as a separate enclosure for small, shy, or senior dogs. You'll find plenty of seating and waste disposal supplies in the dog park, but remember to bring your own water supply and bowl for your pup.

Essex Village

Essex is a small town in Connecticut that's often referred to as "the perfect small town," and it's less than a half-hour drive from Oakdale. Essex Village is where you'll find the Paw Dog Park at Viney Hill, and this off-leash park has big and small dog sections. The park is open during daylight hours, and it's located near a pond if your dog wants to take a dip. There are several seating areas in the park, as well as an agility course and waste disposal supplies, but bring your own water supply. Throughout the rest of Viney Hill Park, there are seven walking trails with varying characteristics, and your dog can walk them with you when they're on a leash.

Old Amston Road

Northern Colchester, Connecticut is home to an abundance of recreational activities, including golfing, museums, fishing, and parks. It's also where you'll discover the Colchester Dog Park! This off-leash park opened in 2010, and it's run entirely by volunteers. There are separate sections for big and small dogs, as well as a double-gated entry and waste disposal supplies. Like most dog parks in the area, you'll need to bring your own water to this park. Colchester Dog Park has a mix of grass and mulch, and there are also tables where pet owners can relax. This dog park is conveniently located near the local animal hospital as well.

Devil's Hopyard State Park

It isn't an off-leash park, but the Devil's Hopyard State Park is a dog-friendly activity that's only 12 miles from Oakdale. You'll find it on the eastern edge of East Haddam, Connecticut, and it's the pawfect way to spend a day with your dog. This state park sits on 1,000 acres of land, and along with its picturesque surroundings, it's a prime spot for bird-watching, fishing, camping, picnicking, or hiking. Devil's Hopyard State Park is dog-friendly, but your dog is required to be on a leash at all times. The moderately difficult main trail at the park is about four miles round-trip, and most people complete it in about two hours.