Metro Parent / August 2011 / Top 10 Dog Parks in Southeast Michigan

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Top 10 Dog Parks in Southeast Michigan

If you're hunting for a southeast Michigan spot for the family pooch to run and play, look no further than this handy guide for parents

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Acres of grassy fields, an abundance of trees, a playful romp with a pack of friendly pups and maybe even a refreshing dip in the lake – all without a leash. What sounds like a doggy dream come true can be a reality for your family's furry friend at your local dog park! Why simply take your dog for a walk when they can socialize, play and run unrestrained while you mingle with fellow dog lovers?

Metro Parent sniffed out the best dog parks in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor with reasonable rates (some are free!), welcoming dogs and people and great spaces to play in. Make a park near you your destination for a tail-wagging good time.

Clinton Township Dog Park

• Address: 40700 Romeo Plank Road, located behind the senior center in Civic Center Park, Clinton Township
• Phone: 586-286-9336
• Hours: Dawn-dusk, daily
• Park pass: $11/Clinton Township resident, $9/resident senior, $22/non-resident, $18/non-resident senior

A one-year pass will get you and your pooch 365 days of fun at this popular Macomb County park. Amenities include drinking fountains for dogs and their humans, pet waste bags and benches – all within 1.5 acres of grassy playing area. Children ages 5 and older are welcome to accompany an adult. Provide license and vaccination paperwork to the parks and recreation department to obtain a pass.

Lyon Oaks Dog Park

• Address: 52221 Pontiac Trail, Old Plank and Wixom Roads, Wixom
• Phone: 248-437-7345
• Hours: Half an hour before sunrise till half an hour after sunset
• Park fees: $5 (resident) or $10 (non-resident); $30 or $46 annually

Lyon Oaks features a 13-acre fenced play space with a small dog area, benches, shade shelter and picnic tables, water fountain and pet waste bags. Want to practice for competitions – or just teach your dog some cool tricks? Don't miss the park's field training area, too.

Hines Dog Park (at Hawthorne Ridge Park)

• Address: Hines Drive, west of Merriman Road, Westland
• Phone: 866-66-HINES (44637)
• Hours: Dawn to dusk, daily
• Passcard cost: $5 annually

This park relocated in August 2010 and is three acres large. Features in this park include secure entry, a plethora of trees, drinking water, a small dog area and agility equipment. Bring your dog license and proof of vaccination to the Wayne County Administrative Offices to get your passcard for a year of inexpensive doggy fun.

Mill Pond / Saline Dog Park

• Address: W. Bennett Street and Mills Road, Saline
• Phone: 734-429-3502
• Hours: Dawn to dusk, daily
• Cost: Free

Mill Pond / Saline Dog Park has fencing on three sides and river access on the fourth. And this one-acre park is free to the public! Water-loving dogs will have a ball swimming and splashing in the Saline River while owners can enjoy the generally peaceful atmosphere. Kids are welcome in the dog park, but there is a children's playground nearby that will keep little ones entertained, too.