Thanks to mild winters and a pleasant Mediterranean climate, Vacaville is a prime place to play. The community’s parks are home to lakeside loops, wildlife walks and hikes for all fitness levels. Dogs can burn off some energy in many of these sprawling open spaces. Some parks also offer venues for archery, biking, fishing and other activities.
Vacaville is home to more than 30 parks with varied terrains and opportunities to walk, run, play fetch, watch birds and bike. Lagoon Valley Park, home to a dog park and the Peña Adobe Historic Area, is a favorite for family picnics, parties and outdoor exploration. Multi-use trails weave through more than 300 acres surrounding Lagoon Valley Lake. In addition to terrific hiking, biking and equestrian paths, there’s a disc golf course, horseshoe pits, grills and restrooms.
Andrews Park, which covers 18 downtown Vacaville acres, has a sprawling play structure with a dragon that kids can climb. Dogs can play fetch at Alamo Creek Park, a neighborhood spot with playground equipment and plenty of trees. Browns Valley Park has picnic tables, plus play equipment and a turf play area with a portable backstop. Leashed dogs are welcome in the four-acre park.
Browns Valley Open Space Preserve draws rock climbers looking for challenging boulders and big views. Scenic hiking trails wind through the hills here, and a hilltop rope swing has become a popular destination and photo spot. Dogs are welcome on the trails, but because there are cattle in the area, it’s best to keep them leashed. Keep an eye out for rattlesnakes when the weather gets warm, too.
