Piper Park in Larkspur sits behind the Central Marin Police station and offers a pleasant mix of shaded walking paths, open space, and water views that make it worth a visit even if you’re just doing a casual stroll. The main park itself requires dogs to stay on-leash, which is fine for a relaxed walk along the flat, tree-covered paths. The real draw for dogs who need to burn off energy is the fenced off-leash area tucked away at the west end of the park, behind the community garden. This is where you can let your dog run and play without worrying about the leash.

The dog park is split into two sections—one dedicated to smaller or more anxious dogs, and another for larger dogs. This separation can make a real difference if you have a smaller dog who gets overwhelmed by bigger, more boisterous play. The smaller dog area gives those dogs a chance to play with others their own size without feeling intimidated. On our visit, the smaller section had a good handful of dogs and owners who seemed genuinely friendly and attentive to what was happening around them.

Keep in mind that owners need to stay with their dogs at all times, which is standard for most off-leash areas. Also, the playing fields throughout the park are off-limits to dogs, so you’re restricted to the designated areas. The tree coverage helps on warm days, though on busy afternoons it can get crowded quickly. If you’re planning a weekend visit, arriving earlier in the day tends to be less hectic. The water access nearby is nice if your dog likes to cool off, though you’ll want to check the water quality before letting them take a dip.