Bollinger Canyon Dog Park in San Ramon gives dogs plenty of room to burn energy with two separate sections — one for larger dogs and another for dogs under 20 pounds. The smaller dog area is especially useful if you have a timid or younger dog who might get overwhelmed by bigger pups playing at full speed.

The park sits on dirt ground rather than grass or mulch, which means your dog’s paws will get dirty, so bring a towel if you’re heading somewhere afterward. The fencing is solid and well-maintained, so you can genuinely relax while your dog runs around. There’s actual seating scattered throughout, which makes a difference when you’re spending time here — it’s not just a fenced lot with nowhere to sit.

On weekends, you’ll find a decent mix of dogs and owners, though it’s mellow enough that you’re not dealing with total chaos. The separate size divisions work well in practice. I’ve seen owners of small dogs actually use that section instead of heading straight to the big dog area, which keeps things safer for the smaller pups who want to play but don’t need to navigate around 80-pound dogs running full tilt.

The park is part of the larger Bollinger Canyon community area, so if your dog gets tired before you’re ready to leave, there’s more of the park to explore on leash. The location in San Ramon makes it convenient for East Bay residents without needing a long drive. Just note that being on dirt means it can get muddy during rainy season, so check conditions before heading out if you’re concerned about your vehicle’s interior. The Facebook page is updated occasionally with park information if you want to check current conditions before visiting.