Best Dog Parks & Trails in Lakeland, Mulberry, and Bartow for On- and Off-Leash Fun

At Atta Boy! Animal Care, we know how important it is to give your pup some quality outdoor time! Whether your furry friend loves zooming around off-leash or strolling by your side, we’ve rounded up the best dog parks and dog-friendly trails in Lakeland, Mulberry, and Bartow.

If your schedule is packed, don’t worry—our Adventure Dog Hikes can give your pup the outdoor fun they crave while you tackle your busy day. But first, let’s check out the top spots for tail-wagging adventures for dog bonding adventures with YOU!

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1. Dog Leg Woods – Lakeland

📍 Location: 1119 E Edgewood Dr, Lakeland, FL 33803

more info: https://www.lakelandgov.net/departments/parks-recreation-and-cultural-arts/dog-parks/

✅ Pros:
✔️ Fully fenced-in off-leash area with plenty of room to run
✔️ Shaded areas with seating for pet parents
✔️ Separate sections for small and large dogs
✔️ Water fountains and agility equipment

❌ Cons:
❌ Can get muddy after rain
❌ Some areas could use more grass coverage

📌 Best for: High-energy pups who love to socialize and explore!

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2. DiOGi Dog Park at Loyce E. Harpe Park – Mulberry

📍 Location: 500 W Carter Rd, Mulberry, FL 33860

more info: https://visitcentralflorida.org/featured/diogi-park-at-loyce-e-harpe-park/ 
✅ Why we Go’s:
✔️ Spacious fenced-in area for off-leash fun
✔️ Separate sections for large and small dogs
✔️ Water fountains, shaded seating, and agility equipment
✔️ Adjacent to scenic hiking trails for leashed walks

❌ What We Don’t Like’s:
❌ Limited shade inside the dog park—bring water and sunscreen
❌ Can get busy on weekends

📌 Best for: Social dogs who love to run, plus pups who enjoy both playtime and a hiking adventure!

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3. Lakeland Highlands Scrub – Lakeland

📍 Location: 6998 Lakeland Highlands Rd, Lakeland, FL 33813

more info: https://www.polk-county.net/park/lakeland-highlands-scrub/
✅ Yes’s:
✔️ Beautiful nature trails for leashed dog walks
✔️ Less crowded than major parks
✔️ Great for adventurous pups who love exploring

❌ No’s:
❌ No off-leash area—dogs must remain leashed
❌ Some trails are sandy and may be tough for small dogs

📌 Best for: Nature walks ( on leash!) with curious pups who love to sniff and explore!

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4. Simmers-Young Park & DiOGi Dog Park – Winter Haven (Near Bartow)

📍 Location: 339 American Spirit Rd, Winter Haven, FL 33880
✅ Perfection’s:
✔️ Well-maintained, fenced-in dog park with separate small and large dog areas
✔️ Water fountains and shaded seating
✔️ Nearby walking trails for leashed strolls

❌ Not So Good’s:
❌ Can be busy during peak hours
❌ Smaller play space than some other parks

📌 Best for: Dogs who enjoy a structured, social environment!

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5. Mary Holland Park – Bartow

📍 Location: 2015 Shumate Dr, Bartow, FL 33830

more info: https://bartowchamber.com/recreation/parks/
✅ Good’s:
✔️ Gorgeous walking trails around lakes (leashed dogs welcome)
✔️ Picnic areas for a family-friendly outing
✔️ Playground nearby for kids

❌ Meh’s:
❌ No designated off-leash dog area
❌ Watch out for Florida wildlife (gators, snakes) near the water

📌 Best for: Leashed walks with scenic views and family outings!

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6. Lake Crago Dog Park – Lakeland

📍 Location: 525 Lake Crago Dr, Lakeland, FL 33805

✅ We Come Back For’s: ✔️ Spacious fenced areas with separate sections for large and small dogs ✔️ Water fountains for both dogs and their owners ✔️ Restroom facilities for humans ✔️ Shaded seating areas for pet parents

❌ What We Pause On’ s: ❌ Opens later on Wednesdays at 9 AM ❌ Limited agility equipment

📌 Best for: Pups who enjoy spacious areas to run and play, with amenities for both pets and owners.

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7. On Dog Time Dog Park – Lakeland

📍 Location: 145 N. Lake Avenue, Lakeland, FL 33801 ✅ Pros: ✔️ Convenient downtown location ✔️ Fenced area for off-leash play ✔️ Open daily during daylight hours

❌ Cons: ❌ Smaller in size compared to other parks ❌ Limited parking availability

📌 Best for: Downtown residents looking for a nearby spot for their dogs to play safely.

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8. Douglas Cook Park Dog Park – Lakeland

📍 Location: 955 Wedgewood Estates Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33809 ✅ Pros: ✔️ Part of an 18-acre community park with multi-purpose fields and playgrounds ✔️ Fenced area for off-leash play ✔️ Walking paths and shaded areas

❌ Cons: ❌ Can be busy during community events ❌ Limited separate areas for different dog sizes

📌 Best for: Families looking to combine a trip to the playground with a visit to the dog park.

9. Peterson Park – Lakeland

📍 Location: 3700 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland, FL 33803
✅ Pros:
✔️ Scenic, dog-friendly walking trails for leashed dogs
✔️ Boardwalks and lake views for a peaceful stroll
✔️ Well-maintained pathways, great for all fitness levels
✔️ Picnic areas and playgrounds for a family-friendly outing

❌ Cons:
❌ No off-leash dog area—dogs must remain on a leash
❌ Can be buggy in warmer months near the water

📌 Best for: Walks on Leashes with beautiful lake views and shaded trails!

 

Too Busy? Let Us Help!

We get it—life can be hectic, and sometimes you just can’t make it to the park. That’s where Atta Boy! Animal Care steps in! Our Adventure Dog Hikes are the perfect way to make sure your pup gets fresh air, exercise, and a little extra fun while you handle your day.

🐾 Ready to give your dog the adventure they deserve? Check out our services at www.AttaBoyAnimalCare.com and let’s get those tails wagging!