Blue Island Bark Park

Is your pooch getting antsy from staying indoors all day? Then bring them to the Blue Island Bark Park for a much-needed off-leash romp! Located on the northern edge of the city amid residential dwellings, this puppy playground provides a safe environment for Blue Island canines to run, play, and socialize without the constraints of a leash.

The entrance can be easy to miss, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the sign near the railroad crossing. Once you and Fido arrive at the park, you'll be greeted by two fenced-in sections: one side is for large puppers, while the other is for small doggos. The bark park features chain-link fencing and a double-gated entry point, so you can rest easy as your pooch sniffs and sprints alongside their new friends. However, it's still impawtant to watch your furry charge closely to make sure that everyone has a pawsitive experience at the park.

Aside from ample space to run around, the Blue Island Bark Park includes agility obstacles to test your pup's athletic abilities. See if you can get Fido to go over the jumps and through the tunnels! On hot days, kiddie pools are brought out so water-loving doggos can cool off. There are also several trees that provide shady spots to sit. Other amenities include benches, pet waste stations, and a water source, so be sure to bring a bowl for your thirsty pup!

Note that only members are allowed to use the facility, so be sure to stop by the registration office on South Highland Avenue before you bring your canine pal to the dog park. The membership, which costs $25 for residents and $35 for non-residents, grants Fido access for an entire calendar year (April to March). Up-to-date vaccinations and a dog license must be shown during registration.

For an afternoon of leash-free fun, you can't go wrong with the Blue Island Bark Park!