BARK PARKS: The Best Dog Parks in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem is a dog lover's paradise, and its abundance of dog parks is proof! Whether you're a local looking for some fresh air or a visitor wanting to let your furry friend run wild, these fenced-in dog parks offer the perfect space for canine camaraderie. From cozy neighborhood spots to sprawling green spaces, there's a dog park to suit every pup's personality. 

Washington Park 
Just five minutes south of downtown, Washington Park is frequented by local dog owners thanks to its convenient location and friendly atmosphere. The onsite dog park (above) features separate areas for large and small dogs, a doggie water station, and benches for owners to relax while their pets play. Washington Park also connects to the Salem Creek Greenway, a 5.1-mile paved path that connects with some of the most popular trails in the city, including the Downtown Strollway, Long Branch Trail, and Salem Lake Trail. directions

Jamison Park
Located 15 minutes from downtown in the northwest corner of Winston-Salem, Jamison Park features a newly opened dog park with areas for small and large pups. Like Washington Park, Jamison Park sits along one of the most popular pathways in the city — the Muddy Creek Greenway — a 2.9-mile paved walkway that traces the banks of Muddy Creek from Country Club to Robinhood Road. The park also features a nature-themed playground and large picnic shelter with grills. directions

Horizons Park (Germanton)
Tucked along the northern outskirts of Forsyth County, Happy Hounds Dog Park at Horizons Park is one of the more low-key dog parks in the area. (And that's a good thing.)  This well-maintained dog park features the largest fenced play area in the county with separate areas for large and small dogs, doggie water fountains, and benches. Horizons Park is also a haven for dog walkers thanks to a 2.6-mile trail that loops through the grounds, passing by trickling streams, bright red barns, rolling meadows, even an old cemetery. directions

Tanglewood Park (Clemmons)
When it comes to the most popular parks in the area, Tanglewood Park is the top dog. The outdoor oasis sits 15 minutes west of downtown in the village of Clemmons, NC, and features a 2-acre dog park (Tanglewoof). Located near the front of the park, Tanglewoof features a large grassy area for big dogs and a separate turf area for smaller dogs (25 lbs. and under.) In addition to the dog park, Tanglewood Park offers picnic shelters, stables, and a 2.2-mile paved loop. (NOTE: The park can get quite crowded on weekends, so make sure your pooch plays well with others.) directions

Fourth of July Park (Kernersville)
On the opposite end of Forsyth County, 15 minutes east of downtown Winston-Salem, Fourth of July Park in Kernersville offers another great choice for dog owners. It's home to the Vivian F. Bennett Memorial Dog Park, which features separate sections for large and small dogs, agility equipment, and plenty of shady areas thanks to its wooded setting. The surrounding park has a bit of everything: walking trails, picnic shelters, tennis/pickleball courts, and a celebrated accessible playground. directions

Tucker's Tap Yard 
Part bar, part dog park, Tucker's Tap Yard is the city's only indoor-outdoor dog park. Located downtown in the Industry Hill neighborhood, Tucker’s features 12,000 square feet of play areas and a full bar menu, making it a perfect place for humans and pups to socialize. The staff also do a great job monitoring the grounds to ensure everything is running smoothly.  (IMPORTANT NOTE: While it's free to enter, guests must register their pups online before arriving.) directions