For dog parents in Vancouver, finding the perfect off-leash park is a game-changer. Whether your pup loves a beach romp, forest trails, or wide-open fields for zoomies, the Lower Mainland is packed with amazing spots to explore.
We’ve rounded up 12 of the best off-leash dog parks in Vancouver and beyond—each one chosen for scenic beauty, accessibility, and space to roam. Plus, we’ve got some pro tips to make the most of your adventure, including how to keep your pup fueled with Red Dog Blue Kat’s raw diet for optimal energy and health.
Quick Overview
What Makes These Dog Parks the Best?
These aren’t just any parks—we’ve carefully picked off-leash areas that meet the needs of both dogs and their humans. Here’s what we looked for:
Accessibility – All parks are within a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.
Free or Low-Cost Parking – No one wants to waste playtime hunting for parking.
Plenty of Space – Overcrowding can be a hassle, so these parks offer room to roam.
Water Access – Many of these parks include dog-friendly beaches, rivers, or lakes for cooling off.
Stunning Views – From oceanfront beaches to forested trails, these parks showcase the best of BC.
Dog-Friendly Community – Well-maintained, with responsible pet owners who keep the vibe positive.
Before You Go: Check Park Rules
Park hours, leash rules, and seasonal restrictions can change, so always check park signage or city websites before heading out!
12 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Vancouver for Play, Trails & Swimming
1. Inter River Park 1301 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver
A hidden dog-friendly paradise just 20 minutes from downtown! With spacious trails, leash-optional zones, and river access, this park is perfect for pups who love to run and swim. Best part? The trails connect to Lynn Canyon, offering endless exploration.
🐶 Best for: Active dogs who love trail adventures & water play.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit Lynn Creek Beach for a cool-down session after your hike!
2. McDonald Beach Dog Park
3500 McDonald Rd, Richmond
A dream spot for water-loving dogs, this riverside beach features a large sandy shoreline, grassy play areas, and scenic mountain views. It’s social but rarely overcrowded—great for dogs who love making friends!
🐶 Best for: Dogs who love swimming & beach runs.
💡 Heads Up: The river current can be strong—keep an eye on your pup if they’re a swimmer.
3. Spanish Banks Beach Off Leash Dog Area
4900 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver
One of Vancouver’s most iconic beaches doubles as a sprawling off-leash paradise! With stunning mountain views, a mix of sand and grassy areas, and tons of space, this is a must-visit for beach-loving dogs.
🐶 Best for: Beach adventurers & dogs who need wide open spaces.
💡 Pro Tip: Check the tides! At low tide, the beach stretches for 1km—perfect for a long game of fetch. You can check the daily tides for Spanish Banks here.
4. Pacific Spirit Regional Park
4821 - 4979 W 16th Ave, Vancouver
If your pup loves the woods, Pacific Spirit Park’s 73 km of trails is the ultimate playground. Most trails are off-leash friendly, but check the map for on-leash areas to respect local wildlife.
🐶 Best for: Trail runners & scent-driven explorers.
💡 Reminder: Keep dogs out of creeks & sensitive wildlife zones to protect local ecosystems.
5. Hadden Dog Beach
A hidden gem nestled in a cozy cove near Kitsilano Beach! With soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of logs for lounging, this spot is ideal for sunset beach playdates.
🐶 Best for: Social dogs who love the beach.
💡 Heads Up: Pay parking only—plan ahead!
6. New Brighton Park
For dogs who aren’t quite ready for full off-leash freedom, New Brighton’s fully fenced dog area is perfect! It’s spacious, grassy, and even has a small dog-friendly beach.
🐶 Best for: Puppies & dogs who need a safe enclosed area.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring a towel—this park gets muddy after rain!
7. Everett Crowley Park
Vancouver’s 5th largest park offers a mix of open trails, wooded paths, and a quiet pond. Most inner trails are off-leash, while outer trails require leashes—so check signage!
🐶 Best for: Trail-loving dogs who enjoy quiet forest walks.
💡 Heads Up: Avalon Pond is on-leash only.
8. Lighthouse Park
Beacon Lane, West Vancouver
A breathtaking mix of ocean views & old-growth forests, Lighthouse Park offers off-leash trails and rocky shore access for adventure-loving pups.
🐶 Best for: Nature lovers & photogenic pups! 📸
💡 Reminder: This park gets very busy on weekends—arrive early!
9. Buntzen Lake
Buntzen Lake, Anmore
Crystal-clear lake + off-leash beach = doggy paradise! Just an hour from Vancouver, this spot is worth the drive for a full day of adventure.
🐶 Best for: Dogs who love swimming & hiking.
💡 Heads Up: Free parking reservations required in summer!
10. Barnet Marine Park
A small but scenic off-leash beach with stunning mountain views. Perfect for a quick nature escape!
🐶 Best for: Chill dogs who love a beach vibe.
💡 Pro Tip: The rocky shoreline keeps dogs close to shore!
11. Ambleside Off-Leash Dog Park
A dog’s dream park with grassy fields, ocean access, and freshwater from Capilano River.
🐶 Best for: Dogs who love variety!
💡 Heads Up: Parking fills up fast—arrive early!
12. Lynn Headwaters Regional Park
Vancouver’s largest regional park features lush trails, river access, and a mix of on & off-leash zones.
🐶 Best for: Dogs who love big adventures.
💡 Reminder: Some trails lead into backcountry terrain—plan ahead!
Fuel Your Pup’s Adventures with a Raw Diet
Off-leash play burns tons of energy—make sure your pup stays healthy & energized with Red Dog Blue Kat’s raw dog food!
High-quality, fresh ingredients for optimal nutrition
Supports joint health & digestion for active dogs
No fillers or artificial additives—just real food!
Want to learn more? Get our FREE Raw Feeding Guide & see the benefits!
Did We Miss Your Favorite Spot?
Tag us using #RedDogBlueKat on Instagram—we’d love to see your pups exploring Vancouver’s best parks! 🚀🐕
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