Located at the northeast corner of Oak Grove Road and David Avenue in Concord, Ygnacio Valley Park spans 9.5 acres with enough variety that you’ll find something to do whether you’re in the mood for a quick walk or a longer hangout. The park has ball fields, a jogging path, picnic and barbecue facilities including a reservable group site, a children’s play area, and plenty of open turf for running around.

Dogs are welcome throughout the park on leash, and the layout makes it easy to explore different sections depending on what you’re in the mood for. The well-maintained trails wind through the grounds, and the open spaces give your dog room to move without feeling cramped. If you’ve got a group, you can reserve the group picnic area and make an afternoon of it—bring some food and let your dog stretch out on the grass while you hang with friends.

The park sits in a pretty accessible location in the East Bay Area, so it’s convenient if you live in or around Concord. The open design means you can see most of the park as you walk, which is nice when you’re trying to figure out which spots have shade or where the more interesting terrain is. There’s enough going on—between the different path options and the various open areas—that even regular visitors find new routes to try.

The facilities are well kept, and the mix of paved paths and turf areas gives you options depending on your dog’s preference and what kind of walk you’re after. If you’re planning a visit, the park’s group site can be reserved ahead of time, which is helpful if you’re organizing something with other dog owners or want to guarantee a good spot for a picnic setup.