Westside Community Park in Lakeport sits on the western edge of town and has become the hub for dog owners in Lake County, especially since the Ron Raetz Dog Park opened within its grounds. The dog park itself takes up about three-quarters of an acre and is split into separate sections for large and small dogs, which makes a real difference when you’re trying to find the right fit for your dog’s play style and size. Both sections have shade trees scattered throughout—important when you’re out in the California sun—and water stations so dogs don’t get too parched during play sessions.

Beyond the dog park, Westside offers plenty of other ways to spend time with your dog. The walking trails that run through the property are genuinely nice for a good stretch and exercise. You’ll find exercise stations along the way if you want to get your own workout in while your dog sniffs around the native plants and terrain. The open grass areas work well for throwing a ball or just letting your dog run, and the picnic spots are good if you want to settle in for a while.

What’s worth knowing is that the dog park was built with heavy community involvement, so locals have maintained it pretty well. The volunteer effort shows in how organized the separate sections are and how the facilities keep getting attention. Because it’s part of a larger park rather than a standalone dog park, you get the bonus of all those trails and open spaces if you want to vary your routine. Some days you might just do the dog park, other days you could walk the trails for a longer outing. The place handles different dog energy levels well, which is why you’ll see a steady stream of people coming through throughout the day.