Paw-fect Dog Parks in the Lake Murray Country region

Is your favorite pet tagging along on your trip? From shady parks to running trails, we’ve discovered the best dog friendly spots in our region. So, get out there with your pup to run, fetch and even swim their energy out!

Sesquicentennial State Park, located at 9564 Two Notch Road, in Columbia SC, offers a 2-acre fenced in off leash area. There’s also a shallow splash pool the dogs are welcome to cool off in. And, there are trails and mini picnic areas throughout the 30-acre park for on-leash fun. The park does require vaccinations and has a small fee for entry.

In Columbia, the Columbia Dog Park is located at 127 Humane Lane. This large dog park offers an in-ground dog pool, comfy chairs for relaxing, shady trees and running water. Again, proof of vaccination is a must and there’s an access fee.

The North Main (No Ma) Dog Park is located at 1250 Parkside Drive in Columbia SC. The 2-acre fenced off dog park is for both large and small dogs. There are benches, running water, pools and tennis balls for the dogs to enjoy. Vaccination proof is needed and there is an annual membership fee to access this park.

At Saluda Shoals Park, located at 5605 Bush River Road in Columbia SC, there’s a barking lot dog park. This park features 2-acres of an off leash, run and play area. There are dog bowls and running water for the dogs to enjoy. Vaccinations are a must and there is an annual membership fee.

Granby Park, located at 100 Catawba Street, in Columbia SC, offers 12 miles of park with access to the Congaree, Saluda and Broad rivers. There are beautiful views and shady paths for you and your dog to enjoy. This is a great location for nature lovers but you’ll need to keep your leash on your pup at this park.

Columbia’s Riverfront Park, located at 312 Laurel Street in Columbia, SC, is a great spot for pets. Enjoy the beautiful river views as you walk or jog the 2.5-mile path.

Doko Meadows Park, located in Blythewood at 100 Alvina Hagood Circle is a 22-acre park with many amenities that your dog will enjoy…walking trails and open fields for fetching.  After play, stop in at the Doko Station Pub & Eatery located at the entrance to the park.

You and your dog will love the Irmo Community Park located at 7505 East View Drive in Irmo, SC. This park welcomes dogs and even sometimes has dog training classes in the park. There’s a walking trail through the park with lots of shady spots.

The Lexington Paw Park is a favorite in the Lexington, SC area and is located at 989 Hendrix Street.  If you want your pup to meet some other furry friends, this is the park to visit.  The set up of this 3-acre park provides dogs and their owners with a wonderful experience to play and socialize. There is an entry fee.

Another dog friendly park in Lexington is Gibson Pond Park located at 241 Gibson Road. This 15-acre wooded park, in the heart of Lexington, has a pond and a fishing dock. There are picnic shelters offering shade and many trails to explore.

Lastly, dogs are welcome at Dreher Island State Park on Lake Murray.  This is a fun spot for your dog to take a dip in the water or walk one of the trails through the trees.  If you’re planning to camp on Dreher, there are select camper cabins (2-5) that are pet friendly. And, the park requires that dogs are kept on a leash while visiting.

Need a cold beverage after walking in the park? Visit one of these local businesses that welcome and encourage you to bring along your furry friend.

Jakes on Devine, 2112 Devine Street, Columbia, SC

Columbia Craft Brewing, 520 Greene Street, Columbia, SC

Gervais and Vine, 620 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC

Market on Main, 1320 Main Street, Columbia, SC