Whalon Lake Dog Park

As humans, we often feel separate from nature. Maybe it is too much time spent on the net, maybe it is too much time spent indoors, or perhaps it is just too much stress. Whatever the reason, we often act like we don't need to just go outside and feel the sun on our face and get fresh air in our lungs.

People may think they aren't really part of the natural world, but our dogs beg to differ. Our dogs know that there can be no greater pleasure than being free of doors, walls, and leashes. Our dogs always call us to be outside, to appreciate the natural world around us in all its messy glory, stinky dog fur, muddy feet, and all.

Will County, Illinois wants to help you and your pet reconnect with the natural world. The county runs a park system with the motto, "Bringing People and Nature Together." Their website's address is literally, www.reconnectwithnature.org. The group runs a series of parks that provide bike trails, camp space, and off-leash areas for your dog. Will County parks are committed to preserving nature and providing recreation.

Whalon Lake Dog Park has the largest dog park in Will County, at over 10 acres. The main park is eight acres. There's an enclosure for dogs under 30 pounds that is 2.5 acres. The park has open space to run as well as a selection of native trees. The park regularly offers agility classes for dog owners who are interested in the extra training, or your puppy can just run around the park and enjoy herself.

Whalon Lake Dog Park has both covered and open benches. There are multiple water fountains for both people and puppies, but many of the fountains are turned off during the winter to avoid freezing. The county pays close attention to the park and provides rigorous maintenance, which includes keeping the park very well supplied with poop bags and regularly emptying the trash cans. There is a daily fee of $5 to visit Whalon Lake Dog Park, and you will need to provide vaccination records to get admittance.