Dog walking in Massena

North Massena

The St. Lawrence State Park in North Massena is a sprawling natural wonder. Like all New York State Parks, St. Lawrence State Park allows dogs provided you keep them on leash and on the path. That way you and your dog can both enjoy nature, and nature (in the form of wildlife) can enjoy themselves as well! This park is crisscrossed with trails for all skill levels. You can also head to places like the Barnhart Island Picnic Area! These picnic table laden areas make great places to catch your breath, eat a snack, and enjoy the natural beauty of this state park.

Downtown Massena

Downtown Massena is home to a pair of amazing parks. Try Alcoa Park first. It has a baseball field and basketball courts. The playground is on the small side, but has the standard slides and swings that kids are looking for. If your dog is the type who loves people, this bustling park is the best place--the crowds are enough to keep her sniffing and watching all day long! For something a little quieter, try Veterans Memorial Park. Dogs are allowed in the park if you clean up after them. It has good benches and statues that honor Massena's veterans.

South Massena

Springs Park in South Massena is a small park with a lot to offer. There is a playground for children and a small pond. While the water feature does add interest and beauty, it also attracts geese. Keep your dog on leash to avoid any run ins with the locals! Springs Park is a popular family destination, since it pairs open space and a playground with a picnic area large enough for several families to all eat at once. If you and your dog are on a solo mission, don't worry; the walking paths through the park are enough to keep you busy.

East Massena

Whalen Park is a simple park that serves as the anchor point for the Whalen Park River Trail. This trail runs for three miles alongside the water. It's an out and back, so only go out as far as you're willing to walk back! If long walks aren't your thing, don't worry. There's still plenty to do with your dog in the park itself. Lounge on the benches or go for a much more sedate walk along the water. This park is light on amenities, so you won't find a playground here. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and a way to share it with your pet!

Massena Center

The Robert Moses State Park is in the tiny hamlet of Massena Center, a separate place within the larger town of Massena. It's as easy as crossing a line, and if you don't look at the address, you'll never know that you actually left Massena behind four minutes before you arrive at this state park. This park is more than two thousand acres, and definitely worth exploring. You won't be able to see it all in a day, or even a whole vacation, but you can see a little of everything. Follow paths through forests, wetlands, and fields. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you.