Feather River Recreation and Park District officially opened the Pat Alley Memorial Dog Park at Riverbend Park in Oroville, creating a tribute to a local figure who spent nearly three decades raising and training dogs. Pat Alley earned deep respect throughout the community as someone with genuine expertise in dog behavior and care, and the park bearing his name reflects that commitment to dogs.

Located at the southern end of Salmon Run Road across from the fishing ponds, this is one of those dog parks that actually feels like real outdoor space rather than a cordoned-off lot. The multi-acre setup is fenced for safety, but the natural terrain keeps things from feeling too confined. You get the sense of actually being in a park rather than just a designated dog area.

The layout shows some thoughtful planning. There’s a general open space where dogs can run and play together without restrictions. If you’re bringing a smaller dog or an older one who prefers calmer interactions, there’s a dedicated smaller section designed specifically for them—something that makes a real difference when your dog needs a less chaotic environment. The park also includes a separate training area, which is useful if you’re working on commands or socializing your dog in a structured way.

The Feather River Recreation and Park District maintains the facility, and the natural surroundings make it feel more like a genuine outing than many dog parks in the region. Being right at Riverbend Park means you’re near the Feather River itself, so there’s a genuine sense of getting out into nature rather than just stopping by a fenced enclosure. The location works well if you’re already spending time in the park or want to combine a dog visit with other activities in the area.