Dog parks in Port St. Lucie give your furry friend dedicated spaces to run, play, and socialize safely. These parks feature fenced areas, separate zones for different dog sizes, and amenities like water fountains and waste stations. Whether you have a tiny Chihuahua or a giant Great Dane, you’ll find the perfect spot for off-leash fun.
All dog parks in the city require current licenses and vaccinations. Aggressive dogs and dogs in heat are usually not allowed. Pet owners must clean up after their pets using the provided waste stations.
Lyngate Park & Dog Park
Lyngate Park and dog park opened in 1979 and remains one of the most popular spots in the city. The dog park here features separate fenced areas for small, medium, and large dogs. This 16-acre facility also serves as home to the American Little League.
The dog park area is lit at night, making it one of the few places where you can bring your dog after dark. Small dogs under 30 pounds get their own dedicated space away from bigger pups. It’s also close to some dog-friendly restaurants that you can visit before or after you take them out.
📍 Location: 1301 S.E. Lyngate Drive, Port St. Lucie 34952
⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
The park provides shade structures and water fountains for your dog’s comfort. Waste stations with bags and disposal containers are placed throughout the area. Because of the lighting, many dog owners choose this park for evening visits after work.
Beyond the dog park, Lyngate offers two pavilions with grills and tables for family gatherings. You’ll also find tennis courts, basketball courts, racquetball courts, and a large playground. The combination makes it easy to plan a full day out with both kids and dogs.
McChesney Park
McChesney Park opened its dog park on August 3, 2019, making it the city’s third official dog park. The facility spans three-quarters of an acre with three separate fenced compounds for small, medium, and large dogs. This 24.5-acre park is home to the Mako Soccer Club.
However, there’s one important detail to remember. The dog park has no lights for nighttime use. Plan your visit during daylight hours to ensure your dog can see and play safely.
📍 Location: 1585 SW Cashmere Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
Shade structures and water fountains keep dogs comfortable during hot days. The separate compounds mean your dog socializes with similarly sized pups, reducing the risk of accidents during play.
The broader park features six lighted soccer fields and a concession stand operated by the Mako Soccer Club. There’s also a fenced playground and an on-site lake for fishing. Families often combine a dog park visit with watching youth soccer games.
Woodland Trails Park & Dog Park
Woodland Trails Park & Dog Park combines dog-friendly amenities with fitness options for owners. The dog park includes fenced areas with separate spaces for small and large dogs. It’s a smaller, more intimate setting compared to other city parks.
The park features outdoor fitness stations along sidewalk trails. You can get your workout in while your dog plays, or take a leisurely walk on the trail system after your pup burns off energy.
📍 Location: 485 SW Calmar Ave, Port St. Lucie, FL 34953
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
Picnic facilities with a pavilion make this park great for casual meetups with other dog owners. The playground includes sensory play components for kids ages 2-12. Open space recreation fields provide additional room for activities.
This park works well for quick visits because of its manageable size. The earlier closing time means you should plan afternoon visits rather than evening ones.
Winterlakes Park
Winterlakes Park offers two separate dog parks for smaller and larger breeds. The setting includes shaded pavilion seating where you can relax while your dog plays. Water fountains keep dogs hydrated throughout their visit.
The park overlooks a beautiful lake with a fishing pier and observation deck. A walking trail perimeter measures 3,923 feet, just under three-quarters of a mile. Many owners walk the trail with their leashed dogs before or after off-leash playtime.
📍 Location: 5241 NW Jannebo St, Port St. Lucie, FL 34986
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
The park includes tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a covered basketball court. There are also practice baseball and softball fields plus soccer goals. Sand volleyball courts and outdoor fitness stations round out the amenities.
The gazebo overlooking the lake creates a peaceful spot to watch your dog play. Shoreline fishing is available if you want to combine dog time with casting a line.
Riverland Paseo Park
Riverland Paseo Park features the newest dog park facility in Port St. Lucie. This 2-acre space in Tradition includes three compounds for small, medium, and large breeds. The extra space gives dogs plenty of room to run and explore.
The park includes a concession building and restrooms for visitor convenience. Shade structures over bleachers provide comfortable seating areas. The picnic area makes this spot ideal for group outings with multiple dog owners.
📍 Location: 12151 SW Community Blvd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset (Daily)
One lighted softball field and two lighted soccer fields are available for reservation. You can reserve amenities in person at the Community Center during normal business hours. Ample parking makes access easy, even during busy times.
The newer construction means clean facilities and modern amenities. The three-compound system gives you more options for matching your dog with appropriate playmates.
Want to make a day of it? Check out some of the best restaurants in Tradition to visit while you’re in the area.
Whitmore Park
Whitmore Park takes a different approach to dog-friendly spaces. This 4.4-acre park does not have a designated off-leash area. Dogs must remain on leashes at all times. However, the park includes open space with a pond and a playground.
This park is unfenced, which means extra vigilance is required. It’s better suited for calm, well-trained dogs who stay close to their owners. The covered table provides a shaded spot for snacks or rest.
📍 Location: 474-498 SE Whitmore Dr, Port St. Lucie, FL
⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
Note that this park has no restrooms. Plan accordingly for longer visits. The pond adds scenic beauty but requires you to keep your dog under control near the water.
Because there’s no dedicated dog park area, this spot works best for leashed walks rather than off-leash play. Consider it for variety in your dog’s routine rather than a primary exercise location.
McCarty Ranch Preserve
McCarty Ranch Preserve does not have a dedicated dog park but welcomes leashed dogs throughout the property. Dogs are allowed on all trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. They’re also permitted in camping areas.
All dogs must be leashed with a maximum 6-foot leash. Current rabies vaccinations are required. This preserve offers a different experience from traditional dog parks because it focuses on nature exploration rather than off-leash play.
📍 Location: 12525 Range Line Rd, Port St. Lucie, FL 34987
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
The preserve includes cleared trails perfect for longer walks with your dog. The lake system spans over 300 acres and allows fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. An 18-hole disc golf course attracts enthusiasts. You can also reserve tent or RV sites for camping under the stars.
Nearby Dog Parks Worth the Drive
Several excellent dog parks sit just outside Port St. Lucie city limits. These options expand your choices for dog outings and provide variety for your pet’s socialization.
Maravilla Dog Park
Located in Fort Pierce, the park includes baseball fields, a basketball court, tennis courts, and a community recreation center alongside the dog park.
📍 Location: 611-899 Maple Ave, Fort Pierce, FL 34982
⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM (Daily)
Vero Beach Dog Park
Vero Beach Dog Park offers 5 acres of fenced, off-leash space along the Indian River Lagoon. This free public park is open from sunrise to sunset and is highly rated by local dog owners for its maintenance and safety.
📍 Location: 3449 Indian River Dr E, Vero Beach, FL 32963
⏰ Hours: Sunrise to Sunset (Daily)
Walton Rocks Beach
Located in Jensen Beach, Walton Rocks Beach is the area’s premier off-leash dog beach. This 24-acre property lets dogs run and swim without leashes from dawn until dusk. Amenities include picnic tables, pavilions, and restrooms.
📍 Location: 6700 S Ocean Dr, Jensen Beach, FL 34957
⏰ Hours: Sunrise to Sunset (Daily)
Haney Creek Dog Park
Located in Stuart, this park features separate fenced areas for large and small dogs. The park includes a dog wash-down area, nature trails, and drinking water fountains. It’s open from sunrise to sunset.
📍 Location: 391 NW Baker Rd, Stuart, FL 34994
⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Daily)
Poppleton Creek Dog Park
Poppleton Creek Dog Park offers another fenced facility with separate areas for different dog sizes. The park includes a dog wash-down area and serves as a trailhead for rare habitat tours. Note that it closes on Wednesdays for maintenance.
📍 Location: 47 51 SE Central Pkwy, Stuart, FL 34994
⏰ Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Daily)
Tips for Visiting Dog Parks in Port St. Lucie
Bring water for your dog, even though fountains are available. Florida heat can be intense, and extra hydration never hurts. Also, bring waste bags as backu,p even though stations provide them.
Visit during off-peak hours if your dog is nervous around other dogs. Early mornings and weekday afternoons tend to be quieter. Evening hours attract more visitors, especially after work hours.
Check your dog’s vaccination records before your first visit. All parks require current licenses and vaccinations. Keep documentation in your car for reference.
Watch your dog’s behavior closely during the first few visits. Some dogs love dog parks while others prefer one-on-one play. There’s no shame in leaving if your dog seems uncomfortable or overwhelmed.
Start with shorter visits and gradually increase time as your dog becomes comfortable. Twenty minutes may be plenty for first-timers. You can always return another day for longer sessions.
FAQ: Port St. Lucie Dog Parks
Do I need to register to use dog parks in Port St. Lucie?
No registration is usually required. All dog parks are free and open to the public. However, your dog must have current licenses and vaccinations. Bring proof of rabies vaccination on your first visit.
What are the rules for dog parks in Port St. Lucie?
Dogs must have current licenses and vaccinations. Aggressive dogs and dogs in heat are not allowed. Pet owners must clean up after their pets using the provided waste stations. Dogs should be supervised at all times.
Can I bring my puppy to a dog park?
Puppies can visit once they complete their vaccination series, typically around 16 weeks old. However, many veterinarians recommend waiting until 6 months to ensure full immunity. Start with quieter times to avoid overwhelming your puppy.
Which Port St. Lucie dog park has the best lighting?
Lyngate Park and Riverland offer the best lighting for nighttime visits. The dog park areas are lit, allowing safe play after dark. However, McChesney Park has no lights in the dog park area despite the main park staying open late.
Are there any off-leash beaches near Port St. Lucie?
Walton Rocks Beach in Jensen Beach is the only designated off-leash dog beach in St. Lucie County. This 24-acre property allows dogs to run and swim freely from dawn until dusk.
What’s the biggest dog park in Port St. Lucie?
Riverland Paseo Park offers the largest dedicated dog park at 2 acres. It includes three separate compounds for small, medium, and large dogs with plenty of room for running and playing.
Do Port St. Lucie dog parks have water for dogs?
Yes, all dedicated dog parks provide water fountains for dogs. However, bringing extra water is recommended during hot Florida days. Shade structures are also available at most locations.
What should I do if my dog gets into a fight at a dog park?
Remove your dog immediately using a leash. Never put your hands near fighting dogs’ mouths. Make a loud noise to distract them or use water if available. Report aggressive dogs to park authorities. Consider leaving and returning at a quieter time.
