Burley Park

For dog owners in Port Orchard and the wider Washington region, finding a peaceful and engaging outdoor space for their furry companions is a true blessing. Burley Park offers precisely that – a charming and serene community park that doubles as an inviting off-leash area for dogs. Far from the hustle and bustle, this hidden gem provides a lush, grassy field perfect for dogs to run and play freely, complemented by gentle trails winding through wooded areas that lead to a beautiful, clear creek.

Burley Park is much more than just a dog park; it's a tranquil spot where locals can connect with nature, enjoy a quiet stroll, and let their dogs experience the joy of off-leash freedom. Visitors consistently praise its peaceful ambiance, often noting that despite its proximity to the highway and town, it feels wonderfully secluded. It’s a versatile space, appealing to families with children thanks to its playground, and to nature lovers who appreciate the opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the scenic beauty.

Burley Park is conveniently located at 14644 Park Dr SE, Port Orchard, WA 98367, USA. Tucked away in a quiet part of Port Orchard, it offers a surprisingly peaceful escape while remaining easily accessible for residents of Kitsap County and beyond. Its location allows for a quick drive from various points in Port Orchard, making it a convenient stop for daily dog walks or weekend outings.

Parking is available at the park. However, it's a commonly noted point by visitors that the "main gate isn't open for some reason" at times. Should you encounter a closed main gate, a helpful tip from locals is to "park in the next road up and go thru the unlocked gate." This indicates that while the primary entrance might occasionally be tricky, alternative access points ensure that the park remains usable.

The park boasts good accessibility overall, including being wheelchair accessible. This inclusivity ensures that a wider range of visitors can enjoy its offerings. The pathways and grassy areas are generally easy to navigate, providing a comfortable experience for both two-legged and four-legged visitors. Despite its seemingly secluded feel, the park's proximity to the highway and town makes it a practical choice for a quick natural escape without a long drive.

Burley Park, while maintaining a natural and laid-back atmosphere, offers several key services that enhance the visitor experience for both dogs and their owners:

• Off-Leash Dog Area: The core service is the dedicated off-leash area, primarily a large grassy field, where dogs can run, play, and socialize freely. This spacious environment is ideal for high-energy dogs and provides ample room for games of fetch.
• Dog-Friendly Trails: Beyond the open field, the park features several dog-friendly trails that wind through wooded areas and lead down to a beautiful creek. These trails offer varied terrain for exploration and sniffing, adding an adventurous element to a dog's outing.
• Children's Playground: For families, the park includes a play set for children, making it a versatile destination where both kids and dogs can enjoy outdoor recreation simultaneously.
• Picnic Facilities: There is at least one picnic bench available, providing a spot for visitors to sit, relax, and enjoy a snack or packed meal amidst the natural surroundings.
• Natural Water Source: The presence of a creek offers a natural water source for dogs to splash in or drink from, particularly refreshing on warmer days.
• Mutt Mitts (Likely Available): While not explicitly stated in all reviews for Burley Park specifically, parks in Port Orchard are generally animal-friendly and often provide Mutt Mitts (waste bags) for dog owners, encouraging responsible cleanup. It's always a good practice to bring your own just in case.

Burley Park distinguishes itself with several unique features and highlights that make it a local favorite:

• Expansive Grassy Field: A significant draw is the large, well-maintained grassy field, providing a soft and enjoyable surface for dogs to romp and play. This is a welcome alternative to the often-dirt or gravel surfaces of other dog parks.
• Scenic Wooded Trails: The park's trails, which meander through tranquil woods, offer a peaceful and picturesque walking experience. The proximity to a beautiful creek adds to the natural charm and provides a refreshing element for both dogs and humans.
• Peaceful and Secluded Atmosphere: Despite its urban proximity, Burley Park provides a remarkable sense of quiet and seclusion. Visitors often comment on how peaceful it feels, creating a true escape from everyday noise.
• Wildlife Sightings: The natural environment of the park means opportunities for wildlife observation. Reviews mention sightings of beautiful owls, indicating the park's ecological richness.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The inclusion of a play set for kids makes it an ideal spot for families to visit, allowing children to play while dogs enjoy their off-leash time.
• Community Charm: Burley Park has a distinct local, community feel. It's a place where neighbors meet, and both two-legged and four-legged regulars enjoy the serene setting.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: The park's accessibility features ensure that it can be enjoyed by a broader range of visitors, promoting inclusivity.

As a public park managed by a local entity (likely Kitsap County Parks or a local community association), Burley Park typically does not offer commercial promotions or special discounts in the traditional retail sense. Access to the park and its amenities is free for all visitors.

However, the "special offer" of Burley Park lies in its continuous provision of a valuable, free, and serene recreational space for the community. Any "promotions" would likely be in the form of community-organized events, such as park clean-up days, local gatherings, or perhaps informal dog playdates organized by regulars. While not a commercial promotion, the recent update of the playground equipment in the park, funded through grants and fundraising by organizations like the Burley Library Association, can be seen as an ongoing investment that enhances the park's appeal to families.

Locals interested in supporting the park or learning about community initiatives related to it might check with the Burley Library Association or local Port Orchard community announcements. These entities are often involved in maintaining and improving the park, reflecting a collective commitment to this beloved local spot.

For general inquiries regarding Burley Park, as it's a public park in Port Orchard, you would typically contact the local parks department or the managing community association.

Address: 14644 Park Dr SE, Port Orchard, WA 98367, USA

Phone: While Burley Park itself does not have a dedicated direct phone line, you can generally reach the Kitsap County Parks Department for information on county parks, or the City of Port Orchard Parks & Recreation for city-managed parks.

Kitsap County Parks: (360) 337-5350 or email parks@kitsap.gov

City of Port Orchard Parks & Recreation: (360) 876-4407 (main city hall number, which can direct inquiries)

Given that the park is reportedly managed by the non-profit Burley Library Association, reaching out to them could also provide specific park information. Their contact email might be available via the Burley Association website: burleyassociation@gmail.com

For residents of Washington, particularly those in Port Orchard and the surrounding Kitsap County area, Burley Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for both dog owners and families. Its unique blend of a spacious, grassy off-leash field and enchanting wooded trails leading to a serene creek offers a dynamic and engaging environment for dogs to explore and exercise. This variety ensures that every visit can feel like a new adventure, catering to dogs that love to run freely as well as those that prefer sniffing through natural woodland.

What truly sets Burley Park apart is its remarkable tranquility. Despite its convenient location, it manages to maintain a peaceful, almost secluded atmosphere, providing a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life. This serene setting, combined with the clear air and natural beauty, makes it a perfect spot for owners to relax while their pets play. The added amenity of a children's playground means that families can enjoy quality time together, with activities for both their two-legged and four-legged members.

The local insights regarding parking and alternative gate access also highlight a supportive community that helps visitors make the most of this beloved spot. While it might lack some of the extensive amenities of larger, more urban dog parks, its natural charm, quiet environment, and dual appeal to dog owners and families make Burley Park an invaluable local resource. It truly embodies the spirit of a community park—a beautiful, accessible, and peaceful haven where both dogs and people can thrive and enjoy the natural beauty of Washington.