One of the joys and responsibilities of being a dog owner is providing your dog with fun and adventure. If you’re looking for a break from your routine neighborhood walks, check out these dog-friendly Delmarva destinations.
1. Abbott’s Mill Nature Center. This historical nature preserve in Milford, Delaware features miles of trails for you to explore with your dog. Admission is free and the nature center is open to the public for hiking from dawn to dusk.
2. Pocomoke River State Park. This park offers many different trails for walking amongst cypress swamp and lush forest. It’s possible to spend hours hiking these winding trails, and would be a great adventure for dogs of all kinds. There are also opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and much more.
3. Salisbury Dog Park. Located on North Park Drive just minutes from downtown Salisbury, this off-leash dog park provides plenty of opportunities for socialization for your dog, and even has agility equipment for training and play. The park is free and open year-round.
4. Pemberton Historical Park. This picturesque historical park located not too far from Rt. 50 has 4.5 miles of trails to explore. This is a perfect location for families with dogs of all sizes and young children, as the trails are well kept and easy to navigate. Visitors are required to keep dogs on a leash at all times and to be mindful and respectful of wildlife.
5. Milford Dog Park. This off-leash park located in the heart of Milford is a great place to take your dogs to have fun and unwind, and meet some new friends. The park is well cared for and is a favorite for local dog owners.
6. Cape Henlopen State Park. This beautiful state park located on the Delaware coastline in Lewes offers beaches, trails, camping, and so much more. Dogs are welcome at all seashore state parks provided they are leashed and cleaned up after. You may bring your dog on the beaches from October 1 – April 30.
7. Tidbury Park. Close to Dover, this park has a picnic area, trails for hiking, fishing, and a dog park with separate areas for small and large dogs. This park is a great way to escape into nature without having to travel far from civilization.
8. Brecknock County Park. This Camden park offers 86 acres of recreation and nature trails, and is a great place to take your dog for an adventure. There’s plenty of history and scenery for you to enjoy, and the delightful trails make this park worth a visit. Be sure to bring a leash and to clean up after your pet.
9. Bowers Beach. Named “Delaware’s Best Kept Secret”, this charming little beach offers plenty of space to walk and enjoy nature with your dog. This beach is rich in history, having been one of the first settlements along the Delaware Bay. They just ask that you keep your dog leashed at all times and clean up after them to keep the beach looking beautiful.
10. Assateague State Park. This awe-inspiring coastal state park is known for the stunning wild horses that roam the island. It offers camping, hiking, and plenty of swimming opportunities. Dogs are allowed on the beach, but visitors are asked to keep dogs on a 6 foot leash at all times and to keep dogs off of nature trails. Click here to see the Maryland State Parks Pet Policy.
