Lloyd Park Off Leash Dog Area

Downingtown, Pennsylvania is a very old town. It was founded at the start of the 18th century. And it's a small town, less than 10,000 people. But it is interesting, with lots of old buildings, and being close to Philadelphia, it has some historical significance. For instance, Downingtown was the site of the first state-sponsored vocational school for African-Americans. 

Less significantly, the movie, The Blob, was filmed in downtown Downingtown. The town is also where Auntie Anne's first sold pretzels. Okay, maybe Downingtown isn't the most historically important town in Pennsylvania. But it is home to a lot of cute antique shops. And it's also home to a really great place to walk your dog.

Lloyd Park Off-Leash Dog Area isn't a dog park in the strictest sense of the word. However, there is a 30-acre area that has been designated as a place for the dogs to play. The off-leash area has a broad, flat meadow surrounding a creek that is just deep enough, at two feet, for your pup to get in some swimming time. 

Most of the year, the creek runs fairly slowly, but it can speed up after heavy rains, and the banks can be rather steep. Visitors are advised to make sure they are wearing good, solid shoes and to keep an eye on elderly or infirm dogs.

The off-leash area is surrounded by a thick glade of trees and forsythia bushes. There is a trail winding through the vegetation that leads to a couple of old barns that can be a lot of fun to explore - there are lots of interesting smells all around. The barns are periodically evaluated by the city, but park visitors should be aware that there is always a risk with old buildings.

There are a few benches in the off-leash area, mostly near the opening gate. There are also some poop bags, which visitors are encouraged to use. There are also a few picnic tables, but no shelter. The park is open 24 hours. The Off-Leash Area of Lloyd Park is very popular with locals, and there should be plenty of pups for your dog to play with, even in the winter. After all, who doesn't love to play in the snow?