Pup-friendly play by the Bay

By: DogTrekker Staff

A vibrant dog park bathed in sunlight features abundant greenery with mature trees, offering ample shade for leisurely outdoor activities. In the distance is a well-equipped playground that presents an additional activity area. An inviting picnic table spreads out nearby, ideal for enjoying meals al fresco or taking relaxing breaks from play. A neatly-placed trash bin aids in maintaining the park's cleanliness for everyone's enjoyment. Dominating the scene is a generously wide dirt path gracefully curving through the expanse of grass, promising exploratory walks and lively fetch games.

IG@aindrearae hiking at Joaquin Miller Park. Photo by Visit Oakland.

Oakland, affectionately known as “The Town,” stretches between the San Francisco Bay and the Oakland and Berkeley Hills. The forested hills are home to unexpected jewels like the 1,833-acre Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park, where 150-foot coast redwoods surround trails and reservable picnic sites.

Furry friends also love The Town’s fenced dog parks and off-leash playgrounds, including Estuary Park and South Prescott Park. Beyond the urban wildlands, look for vibrant local businesses and lively events in pup- and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods like Grand Lake, Rockridge and Piedmont (don’t miss the ice cream at Fentons Creamery!). Lake Merritt is a gem, and you’ll also find history and culinary surprises throughout Jack London Square.