Albany Dog Park: A Top Destination for Pups in the USA!

Albany, Oregon, USA - As pet lovers around the country celebrate their furry friends, the Albany Dog Park in Oregon stands out as a shining example of pet-friendly spaces. According to Statesman Journal, this park has garnered recognition as one of the best dog parks in the nation, securing the fifth spot in the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers‘ Choice Awards for 2025. For dog owners and their pawed companions, it’s a prize worth barking about!

The competition took a rigorous turn, with a panel of judges nominating the park alongside others in categories like best dog bar, best dog-friendly beach, and best pet store. After vetting by USA TODAY 10BEST editors, the public had their say through a four-week voting process. Albany’s charm clearly resonated with voters, elevating it into the illustrious top spots.

A Welcoming Space for All

The Albany Dog Park boasts a generous off-leash area of 2.3 acres, a haven for pets to romp freely. With designated sections for both large and small dogs, it ensures that all canine visitors can enjoy themselves without feeling overwhelmed. Amenities at the park include water drinking stations and doggie waste bags, making it easy for owners to maintain cleanliness while enjoying a day out.

Visitors also appreciate the shaded areas, perfect for those sunny days, and can even let their dogs frolic near a section of Timber Linn Lake. The facility is designed not only for fun but for safety and comfort as well. What more could a doggo (or their human) ask for?

Honorable Mentions and Pampered Pups

While Albany Dog Park shines brightly, it’s also part of a broader national movement towards creating more pet-friendly public spaces. USA TODAY’s annual awards illuminate the best places where our pets can enjoy themselves. This year, the golden bone for best dog park went to Fiesta Island in San Diego, a sprawling 90-acre leash-free oasis.

For those looking for more pet pampering, Jupiter Dog Beach in Florida received accolades as the best dog-friendly beach, allowing well-behaved dogs to run free along the sandy shores. The luxury of accommodation is also on the rise, with the Peabody Memphis being hailed as the best pet-friendly hotel, where dogs can enjoy a stay with their human companions.

What’s Next?

As we look towards the future of pet-friendly spaces, it’s clear that parks like Albany are more than just grass and fences; they serve as important community hubs that foster relationships and promote well-being among both pets and their owners. With the pet-loving community continually growing, we can expect further innovations and additions to these delightful spaces.

For those interested in exploring more about the best spots for pets, don’t forget to check out USA TODAY’s list and participate in the vibrant community of pet lovers ready to share their adventures.