University Avenue Dog Park in Sacramento has two separate fenced areas—one for small dogs and one for larger dogs—so you can choose the right space depending on your dog’s size and play style. The setup means smaller dogs won’t get overwhelmed, and bigger dogs have room to really move around.

The park’s surface is sand and crushed gravel, which drains well but can get into paw pads, especially if your dog has longer fur between the toes. I’d suggest checking their feet after a session and maybe bringing some water to rinse off if it’s been hot. The gravel also tends to stick to wet paws, so have a towel handy if it’s been recently watered or if you’ve been at a nearby water fountain.

Speaking of amenities, there are drinking fountains for both you and your dog, benches scattered around for sitting, trash cans, and pooper scoopers available so cleanup is straightforward. It’s the kind of park that’s clearly maintained with regular use in mind—not fancy, but functional and clean.

The City of Sacramento Parks and Recreation Department manages the park and maintains a dedicated website where you can find current guidelines, hours, and any updates about facility maintenance or temporary closures. It’s worth checking before you head over, especially if you’re planning a trip on a weekend when other dog owners will be around.

The location works well if you’re already in the area running errands on University Avenue. It’s a solid neighborhood spot for regular exercise and socialization rather than a destination park, but that’s exactly what makes it useful for locals. You can get in a good 30-45 minute play session without it being a whole production.