dog friendly parks in berks county
If you’re looking for dog-friendly parks in Berks County, you’re in luck. This region offers a wide variety of green spaces, trails, and off-leash areas that welcome pups and their people. Whether your dog loves to romp freely or prefers a peaceful leash walk through woods and meadows, here are top picks for places to explore together.

Why Choosing Dog-Friendly Parks in Berks County Matters

Before we dive into the list, let’s cover why using truly dog-friendly parks in Berks County is important:

  • Safety & rules compliance – Many parks have rules for leashes, licensing, waste removal, etc. You want places that explicitly allow dogs so you’re not inadvertently trespassing.
  • Amenities & design – Dog-friendly parks in Berks County tend to have waste stations, benches, fences, shade, and paths built for foot traffic and paws.
  • Variety of terrain – The best dog-friendly parks in Berks County will offer options: open fields, wooded trails, paved paths, creek access, etc.
  • Community & socialization – Your dog can meet others, but in settings that support pet etiquette.

Now, let’s explore some of the best dog-friendly parks in Berks County (plus trails) that deserve a spot on your must-visit list.

Top Dog-Friendly Parks in Berks County

Jim Dietrich Dog Park (Muhlenberg / Reading area)

One of the premier dog-friendly parks in Berks County, Jim Dietrich Dog Park sits within Jim Dietrich Park at 4899 Stoudts Ferry Bridge Rd., Reading.

The off-leash area is divided into three paddocks, each for different sizes of dogs or for rotation to let grass recover.

Rules: Dogs must be licensed, in good health, and you must clean up after them.

Because this is one of the most robust dog-friendly parks in Berks County, it often gets high praise from locals.

If your dog loves wide-open space and social time, this is a must.

2. Danielle Ruiz-Murphy Center for Animal Welfare Dog Park (Birdsboro)

Another excellent example among dog-friendly parks in Berks County is the dog park at the Danielle Ruiz-Murphy Center for Animal Welfare in Birdsboro.

Open daily during daylight hours.

Dogs must be licensed, wear rabies tags, and users are limited to three dogs per handler.

The dog park is part of a larger equine rescue center—so there are trails nearby you can explore (on leash).

This is a more low-key option compared to Jim Dietrich but still part of the network of dog-friendly parks in Berks County.

Best Dog-Friendly Trails & Parks Where Dogs Are Welcome (Leashed or Off-Leash Sections)

Not all dog-friendly parks in Berks County have off-leash areas—but many beautiful trails and natural preserves welcome leashed dogs. Here are some standout options.

3. Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center
Nolde Forest is one of the most beloved dog-friendly parks in Berks County for those who enjoy shaded woodlands and quiet trail walks.

The center spans roughly 665 acres in Cumru Township.

Trails include the Watershed Trail (1.1 mi), Boulevard Trail (2.3 mi), Kohout Trail (0.3 mi), and Middle Road (0.6 mi).

Dogs are welcome (leashed) on all trails.

Nolde enforces “Leave No Trace” practices, so dog walkers must scoop and carry out waste.

If your pup enjoys forest walks, this is prime territory among dog-friendly parks in Berks County.

4. French Creek State Park
While French Creek State Park spans both Berks and Chester counties, it offers about 30+ miles of trails—many of which are excellent for leashed dogs.

Trails to try: Boone Trail (6 mi loop), Buzzards Trail (3 mi), Lenape Trail (5.5 mi), Mill Creek Trail, Raccoon Trail (1.7 mi) and more.

You’ll also pass through portions of historic Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, which allows leashed dogs on its grounds.

Note: check for trail closures or seasonal restrictions before heading out.

Because of its size and variety, French Creek is often considered among the top dog-friendly parks in Berks County when you want long hikes or varied scenery.

5. Schuylkill River Trail (Berks County Section)
The Schuylkill River Trail is a multi-use trail that runs through Berks County and beyond.

The trail passes through Reading, linking to existing city and riverside paths.

Its surface is a combination of paved, gravel and mixed surfaces—good for walking, sometimes biking.

Because it’s multi-use, dogs must be leashed and you’ll share with cyclists, walkers, and runners.

This is one of the more urban-accessible dog-friendly trails in Berks County, giving you a balance between nature and ease of access.

6. Trails via Hiiker (Various in Berks County)
Hiiker, an app/website listing hiking trails, shows several dog-friendly hiking trails in Berks County worth exploring.

Some examples:

Neversink Mountain Preserve Loop (~10.3 km)

Tom Lowe Loop Trail (~15.1 km)

Blue Marsh Lake Loop & Skinners Loop (~35.6 km)

Dans Pulpit out-and-back (~9.4 km)

Tulpehocken Creek Loop (~11.5 km)

Schuylkill River Trail (again)

Neversink Mountain via Purple/Green Loop (~4.8 km)

These trails tend to be more rugged and longer, ideal for more adventurous dogs and owners. Just be sure to bring water, waste bags, and check the trail condition in advance.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

7. Antietam Lake Park
One of the few Berks County parks with approved dog access according to the county’s official policy is Antietam Lake Park.

The park encompasses a 643-acre lake and surrounding land.

Dogs must be leashed, and owners are strictly responsible for waste removal.

This is a quieter, scenic spot to enjoy nature with your pup if you stick to the leash rules.

Because many county parks restrict dogs, Antietam Lake is a standout among dog-friendly parks in Berks County in that regard.

8. Reading Public Museum Arboretum
This is more of a stroll than a hike, but it’s a pleasant spot to include on your list of dog-friendly parks in Berks County.

Leashed dogs are welcome to walk among trees, gardens, and educational exhibits.

It’s a nice option if you want something closer to town for slower-paced walks.

Tips for Visiting Dog-Friendly Parks in Berks County

To make your outings safer, more fun, and respectful of the community, here are some best practices when visiting dog-friendly parks in Berks County:

1. Always check rules & hours

Some parks only allow dogs on certain trails or during daylight hours. For example, Jim Dietrich may rotate paddock closures.

2. Keep your dog leashed where required

Even in parks that welcome dogs, there are many trails where leash rules are mandatory. Many dog-friendly parks in Berks County explicitly require it.

3. Bring waste bags & clean up

This is non-negotiable. Most parks have waste disposal stations, but carry extra bags just in case.

4. Pack essentials

Bring water, a collapsible bowl, a basic first-aid kit, tick prevention, and maybe booties for sensitive paws.

5. Be weather-aware

Avoid the hottest hours in summer; trails can heat up, and shade may be sparse. Some parks may even temporarily close to protect turf during heavy rains.

6. Respect other visitors & wildlife

Your dog should be under control. In natural preserves especially, leave no trace and respect wildlife habitats.

7. Scout in advance

Use apps like Hiiker, AllTrails, or local parks’ websites to check trail maps, closures, or user reviews. For example, AllTrails shows “Pagoda to Peace Rock” as a dog-friendly trail in Reading.

Sample Itineraries & Pairings

Here are a few ideas to make the most out of a day with your dog in Berks County:

Morning woodland walk at Nolde Forest → Afternoon fetch & social time at Jim Dietrich Dog Park

Hike in French Creek (choose 5–8 mi loop) → Scenic riverside stroll along a section of the Schuylkill River Trail

Easy outing around the Reading Public Museum Arboretum → pack a picnic near Antietam Lake for scenic rest

Mix and match depending on your dog’s stamina, time available, and interest in terrain.

Let’s Go!

Exploring all the dog friendly parks in Berks County is a great way to keep your pup happy, healthy, and active — but we know that sometimes, busy schedules can make those extra walks hard to fit in. That’s where our team comes in! At Berks Pet Care, we’re here to make sure your dog gets the exercise, attention, and love they deserve — whether it’s a stroll through their favorite trail or a fun visit at home. Follow us on Facebook to see our latest adventures, pet tips, and client cuteness overload, and reach out anytime to schedule your next walk or visit!