Located in Stockton, Oak Grove Regional Park offers a genuine escape into nature for anyone looking to spend time outdoors with their dog. This 180-acre park sits in San Joaquin County‘s Central Valley and gives you real options for how you want to spend your time there.

The park has two trails where dogs are welcome on leash. The main trail is about 1.5 miles and takes you through an old oak grove—the trees really are impressive, and the shade is welcome on hot days. If you’re dealing with mobility issues or just want something shorter, there’s a quarter-mile handicapped accessible trail that still gets you into the landscape without the commitment of a longer hike.

Oak Grove Lake is the centerpiece of the park, a 10-acre body of water that makes the whole place feel more interesting than a typical neighborhood park. You can walk your dog along the shoreline, and there are picnic areas if you want to settle in for a while. The lake also attracts birds, which some dogs find endlessly entertaining and others find completely distracting, so manage your expectations based on your dog’s prey drive.

The trails are well-maintained and the park generally doesn’t feel overcrowded, at least not on weekday mornings. It’s a legitimate option if you’re in Stockton and want to get away from pavement for an hour or two. Water stations are scattered throughout, which matters if you’re doing the longer trail on a warm day. Bring your own water bottle too—you’ll want it. The parking area is straightforward, and there’s enough space that you’re not fighting for a spot, even on weekends.