top of page

A Pet Lovers Guide To The Best Dog Parks In Charleston, SC

  • Writer: Kimberly Layman
    Kimberly Layman
  • May 25
  • 3 min read

Updated: 2 hours ago

If you're a Charleston-area pet parent, you know a tired dog is a happy dog, and there's no better way to burn off that zoomie energy than with a good romp at the dog park. Charleston offers some great options for off-leash adventures, shady strolls, and tail-wagging fun. Whether you're in North Charleston, Park Circle, Goose Creek, Downtown, or the surrounding areas, there’s a spot nearby where your pup can sniff, play, and socialize.


In this guide, we’ve rounded up some of the best dog parks in Charleston and what makes each one worth the wag, plus helpful details like park rules, membership requirements, and on-site amenities.


Wannamaker Dog Park - Splash Pad in Charleston, SC
Photo from ccrpc.com

What to Expect at Charleston-Area Dog Parks

·      Fully fenced off-leash areas

·      Water stations, shade, and seating

·      Park-specific rules and requirements (some parks require a pass)

·      Friendly, dog-loving communities


North Charleston

Wannamaker County Park Dog Park

8888 University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406

  • Requirements: Daily admission or annual park pass required

  • Amenities: Large off-leash field, dog rinse station, shady spots, and separate small dog areas

  • Rules: Dogs must be supervised at all times and leashed outside the dog area


Broken Leash Dog Park and Bar

8811 Old University Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29406

  • Requirements: Membership required; dogs must pass a temperament screening and show proof of vaccinations

  • Amenities: Indoor/outdoor off-leash play, agility equipment, pools, beer for humans

  • Rules: Dogs must be over 4 months old and friendly with others


The Broken Leash Dog Park and Bar in Charleston, SC
Photo from The Broken Leash Dog Park and Bar

Park Circle

Mixson Avenue Dog Park

4856 Mixson Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

  • Requirements: Open to the public

  • Amenities: Simple fenced-in play area in a walkable neighborhood, water stations

  • Rules: Leash required outside of fenced zone; pet owners must clean up after dogs


Downtown Charleston


Hampton Park Dog Run 

83-147 Grove St, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Requirements: Open to the public

  • Amenities: Large fenced area for dogs, occasional shade, benches, water fountain, FREE parking

  • Rules: Dogs must be supervised and vaccinated; leash required outside of fenced zone


East Bay Dog Park

41 S Adgers Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401

  • Requirements: Open to the public

  • Amenities: Fenced small and large dog areas, occasional shade, benches, water spigots (seasonal)

  • Rules: Dogs must be supervised and vaccinated; leash required outside of fenced zone


East Bay Dog Park in Charleston, SC
Photo from East Bay Dog Park

Brittlebank Park (not a fenced in off-leash dog park)

185 Lockwood Dr, Charleston, SC 29403

  • Requirements: Open to the public

  • Amenities: Scenic walkways along the water, grassy spots for leashed walks

  • Rules: No designated off-leash area—leashes required at all times


Goose Creek

John McCants Veterans Park

355 Anita Dr, Goose Creek, SC 29445

Phone: 843-797-6220

  • Requirements: Open to the public

  • Amenities: Fenced dog area, pavilions with picnic area, shaded area with benches, water fountain, children’s playground, and walking trails as well

  • Rules: Dogs must be supervised and vaccinated; leash required outside of fenced zone


Honorable Mention

James Island County Park

871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 29412

  • Requirements: Daily admission or Annual Park Pass required

  • Amenities: Large dog park with lake access for swimming, rinse station, shady seating

  • Rules: Leash required outside of dog park; dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations


James Island Dog Park in Charleston, SC

Let the Good Times Roll

Whether your pup loves a full-on sprint or a slow sniff-and-stroll, Charleston offers a variety of dog parks and green spaces to match your dog’s personality. Try them all and see which one becomes your pup’s favorite hangout!


Need help getting your dog the exercise and enrichment they deserve? Our daily walks and adventure outings make it easy to keep your pup active and happy, no matter your schedule.


Schedule Midday Dog Walks and Adventure Walks for your Pup with Paws Up! in Charleston, SC


Know a great dog park we failed to mention? Tag @PawsUpCHS or drop it in the comments!

Comments


bottom of page