Keizer Rapids Dog Park

Keizer Rapids Park, outside of Salem, Oregon, is a big, beautiful park. At over 100 acres, it has room to do things right. And boy, does it ever do things right!. There are miles of trails, both paved, and unpaved, for running, walking, and biking. There is an 18 hole frisbee golf course, a beach on the Willamette River for fishing, two sand volleyball courts, and a 400-seat amphitheater. 

There is even a "Giant Toy Playground," with equipment designed to look like, well, giant toys, and has to be seen to be believed. And, of course, there is a dog park. The dog park at Keizer Rapids Park is just as nice as the rest of the park. It is big at almost five acres, divided into two enclosures, with one specifically for small dogs under 30 pounds. The small dog enclosure also accommodates shy and elderly dogs. 

Both park enclosures are mostly covered in thick, lush grass, which is scrupulously maintained. The main enclosure has a raked sandy area in addition to grass. Both enclosures have covered shelters for people to use when caught in Oregon's famous rain. Keizer Rapids Dog park is well-placed for people, close to the parking lot. There are poop bags available in the enclosure. 

However, the trash can is outside the enclosure, so it is suggested that people bring a larger bag to carry around used bags. The dog park has a few benches and, in the main enclosure, some picnic tables, although people are asked not to bring any glass containers or food for people either. The small dog enclosure has miniaturized, non-functioning fire hydrants for the smaller dogs. 

Both enclosures have water fountains for people and dogs, with permanently attached metal water dishes for the dogs that empty between uses. Dogs are welcome throughout Keizer Rapids Park so long as they are on a leash. People are cautioned to keep their puppies away from the river, which has a strong current, especially in late winter and early spring.