This guide is about one thing: where your dog can be off leash in Austin, and what to know before you go. City Code requires dogs to be on a leash in public areas unless a spot is designated for off-leash use. We checked the City of Austin’s pages and its February 2026 off-leash area map on October 31, 2026. Hours, closures and rules change, so check the City’s page before you go.
These are public parks you visit yourself. They are separate from VIP’s neighborhood dog walking, and VIP does not take dogs to off-leash areas.
City rules to know first
The City of Austin asks every visitor to an off-leash area to follow these rules:
- Leash your dog on the way to and from the off-leash area. The City’s 2025 guidelines set the leash at six feet or shorter.
- Keep your dog within sight and sound control at all times. A dog that cannot come back when called should go back on leash.
- No more than three dogs per handler.
- Dogs in heat are not allowed, and aggressive dogs must be removed right away.
- Rabies vaccination is required by state law.
- Pick up after your dog and put the waste in a trash can.
- At fenced areas, close the first gate fully before you open the second. Bicycles stay outside the fence.
- Playgrounds, preserves and similar areas are no-pet zones, on or off leash. Keep your dog on leash in parking areas and at trailheads.
Parks are generally open from 5 am to 10 pm unless posted otherwise. Read the rules on the City of Austin’s dog parks page.
Harmful algae. The City warns that some algae can produce toxins that harm or kill dogs. It has been found in Lady Bird Lake, most often in summer and fall. Read the City’s guidance at AustinTexas.gov/Algae before your dog goes in the water.
Austin’s off-leash areas
West Austin Neighborhood Park. The City lists an off-leash area of under an acre at 1317 W 10th Street, Austin 78703, close to Clarksville and Tarrytown.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park. The City’s off-leash area covers about 185 acres at 12138 N Lamar Boulevard, Austin 78758. Check the City’s map and park signs for the area’s boundaries and stay inside them.
Red Bud Isle. This 13-acre off-leash area on Lady Bird Lake is at 3401 Red Bud Trail, Austin 78746. The algae notice above applies here. If your dog goes in the water, keep them in sight.
Onion Creek Greenbelt. The City lists a 107-acre off-leash area at 7004 Onion Creek Drive, Austin. The greenbelt also has a playground, which is a no-pet zone, so keep your dog out of it.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park (Turkey Creek Trail). The City’s February 2026 map lists Emma Long Metro Park as an off-leash area, and the City’s Turkey Creek Trail map marks the trail as “Hiking and Off Leash.” The trailhead is at 2000 City Park Road. Elsewhere in the park, dogs must stay on a leash and under your control. Check the City’s trail map and posted signs. Hours are 7 am to 10 pm. Day entry is $5 per vehicle Monday through Thursday and $10 per vehicle Friday through Sunday and holidays, or $1 per walk-in. Temporary notices (City pages checked October 31, 2026): the boat ramp and swimming are closed October 12 through November 30, 2026 while Lake Austin is lowered, and park water utilities are off through January 15, 2027.
Riverside Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park. The City lists a 2-acre off-leash area at 1016 Edgecliff Terrace, Austin 78704. Older City materials call this spot the Norwood Tract.
The City’s map lists more areas than this guide covers, including neighborhood bark parks. See the City’s off-leash area map for the full list. We left out Shoal Creek Greenbelt because the City lists Shoal Creek Trail closures this year. Check the City’s closures page before you visit.
Near Austin
These parks are outside the City of Austin and follow their own city’s rules.
Cedar Bark Park, Cedar Park. The City of Cedar Park lists Cedar Bark Park at 2525 West New Hope Drive, Cedar Park 78613. Check the city’s page for hours and rules. VIP’s Cedar Park page has more about care in that area.
For dog-friendly patios, taprooms and dog bars, including one in Leander, see our guide to dog-friendly patios, taprooms and dog bars in Greater Austin.
Tips for visiting dog parks in Austin
Check park hours and rules before you go. Regulations vary by park. Bring water, sun protection and waste bags. Keep watching your dog for signs of stress or discomfort, and be ready to leave if needed. In places where other dogs and animals are around, keep vaccinations up to date. Carry a basic pet first aid kit for minor scrapes or cuts.
When you enter a gated area, make sure the gate closes behind you. Watch the dogs already inside for a few minutes before you go in.
Basic dog park etiquette
Do
- Pick up after your dog.
- Keep your dog in sight at all times.
- Respect leash rules and designated play areas.
Don’t
- Don’t bring unvaccinated dogs.
- Don’t allow aggressive behavior.
- Avoid bringing toys or treats that could cause conflicts.
When the park doesn’t fit your day
On days when a trip to the park doesn’t fit your schedule, VIP’s dog walking is a separate service: leashed walks in parks and trails near your home. VIP does not take dogs off leash outside the home or yard, including dog parks. VIP has been trusted since 2001 and serves pet parents in Austin and across Greater Austin. To get started, Request Reservations or Contact Our Office.
Last verified: October 31, 2026.
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