Manistee Dog Park (at First Street Beach)

This half an acre dog park is an off-leash heaven for canines of all sizes. Located at First Street Beach, it is where pets can run within the fenced shoreline. With the weather heating up, our four-legged best friends will enjoy dipping into the waves, running around in the sand, and fetching balls out of the water but more than a few pet parents have been disappointed when they found out that although this bark park is near the beach, there is no water access. 

There is also no fresh drinking water available so make sure that you bring a jug of drinking water for you and your four-legged best friend to share when out in the Manistee Dog Park. The bark park is located in the same area as lighted tennis courts, two children’s playgrounds, volleyball court, basketball court and two lighted softball fields with restrooms, so you need not worry should you ever need to use the toilet. 

There are a table and some benches where you can sit down, relax, and perhaps even make new friends with other pet parents who share the same passion with canines as you. There are a few trees which give ample shade and protection from the sun on a hot and sunny day. There is a lovely view of Lake Michigan which you and Spike will enjoy but do keep in mind that he has to be on a leash if outside of the designated off-leash area for canines. 

The expansive beach also features an emergency call station, a playground, bathhouses, a handicap ramp to the waterfront, grills, and picnic tables. It is an excellent place to go to for some family fun. However, there is no lifeguard on the beach so adults are responsible for their kids and must be on the lookout for their safety. Drowning hazards are always a concern.