Central Bark at Cartier Park

You'll find many dog-friendly places in Ludington, but Central Bark will surely be one of Fido's favorites, if not the most! Spanning about an acre, it is the city's only off-leash dog park, giving canine community members a safe environment to run, play, exercise, and mingle sans leash.

Accessible from North Rath Avenue, Central Bark is tucked in the northeast corner of Cartier Park just off the paved path. This fenced-in dog run features separate sections for large and small pups, both of which contain lots of trees that provide generous shade. Fido will definitely have a puptastic time running around, socializing with other doggos, and taking in all the exciting sights and smells in this beautiful setting. Make yourself comfortable on one of the benches as you watch your pooch, but do always keep them in sight!

Make sure that your furry pal practices proper petiquette around their fellow canines, and that you dispose of any mess that they might make right away—mutt mitts and trash receptacles are available on-site to make cleanup easy. Water isn't supplied, though, so you'll need to bring your own. Bring some extra to share, too, and make new friends! Don't forget to check out the information board at the entrance for community messages and announcements.

If your pup still hasn't burned off all their energy after spending some time in the dog park, take them for a leashed stroll on the adjacent Cartier Park Walk Path. This 1-mile, paved loop will take you and your pooch around the perimeter of the park, through the woods, and over hills. It also passes by a gazebo near Lincoln Lake, where you and your best friend can enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings as you rest your feet and paws.

For the pawfect spot to let your pooch stretch their legs, look no further than Central Bark!