Rita's Ranch Dog Park (at Scott Park)

Rita's Ranch Dog Park at Scott Park is one of two dog parks in Iowa City that provides your pup with a chance to run around and chase his four-legged friends. This three-acre park is fenced in and has a double-gated entry for safety. At the entrance, there is a pavilion and benches to keep you comfortable and cool. Just outside the fence, there is a bulletin board for community happenings and even an information box and a book exchange. 

There are water fountains for people and pups, puppy pools in the hot weather, and pavilions and benches within the fence. This dog park encourages pups of all sizes to play together, so if you have a shy pup or a pup who is new to the park scene, it is best to take him at times that are not busy. The ground is primarily grass and there are some trees, but they are small so there is not a lot of shade outside of the pavilions. 

There are garbage cans available, but bring your own poop bags and be sure to pick up after your pooch immediately. Not to rain on the puppy parade, but this park tends to have significant water retention and to protect the grounds, the park will close due to heavy rains, spring thaw, or other times to protect the ground. Stay alert to closings and contact the Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Iowa to find out if the park is open. 

The dog park requires that all dogs are vaccinated and licensed and have the proper tags to enter the park. There is also a permit tag or day pass for purchase. The annual permit costs $40/residents of Iowa City and $45/non-residents. The day pass is $5. The fines for entering without a permit or proper vaccinations is up to $100 for each offense.