Dog park (trial)

For dog owners in Austin, Texas, the opportunity to exercise their furry friends in expansive, natural settings is highly sought after. While the search for a dedicated dog park at the specific address of 6301 W Slaughter Ln might lead to a "Dog park (trial)" as noted, it's important to understand that this location is primarily associated with the much larger Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park on Slaughter Creek. This vast metropolitan park is a cornerstone of outdoor recreation in South Austin, and it has recently been part of a significant initiative by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) to explore temporary, fenced Dog Off-Leash Areas (DOLAs).

Therefore, when considering the "Dog park (trial)" at 6301 W Slaughter Ln, locals should view it as a specific, designated off-leash zone within the broader Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park. This approach allows PARD to understand the benefits and drawbacks of dedicated off-leash areas in existing parks, ensuring that the needs of both dog owners and other park users are met. For the time being, it represents a fantastic opportunity for South Austin residents to enjoy off-leash privileges for their dogs within a well-loved and extensive park system.

The "Dog park (trial)" is located within the expansive grounds of Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park, situated in South Austin. The official address for the park is:

6301 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78739, USA

This location places it in a well-established residential area, making it highly accessible for residents of Circle C Ranch and surrounding South Austin neighborhoods. The park is vast, covering nearly 600 acres, which means there are multiple entry points and parking areas. Access is generally convenient by car, with ample parking usually available, though it's always wise to anticipate busier times, especially on weekends when sports events might also be taking place. The park's extensive trail system allows for various ways to reach the designated off-leash trial area, providing flexibility for visitors who might also enjoy walking or biking to the park. The park operates from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, offering generous hours for dog owners to visit.

As a metropolitan park under the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD), Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park offers a wide array of amenities for the general public. Within this context, the "Dog park (trial)" specifically focuses on providing a designated off-leash experience. Here's a breakdown of the services and amenities available, keeping in mind the trial nature of the off-leash zone:

• Designated Off-Leash Area (Trial Basis): The primary service is the provision of a temporary, fenced-in area where dogs are permitted to be off-leash. It's crucial to note that these "pilot DOLAs" are temporary, and their presence and exact configuration are subject to the City's ongoing evaluation. While the specific pilot at Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park concluded on June 3, 2025, the initial offering provided a structured off-leash zone.

• Extensive Walking and Hiking Trails: Beyond the specific off-leash area, the larger Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park offers "5.9 miles of scenic trails for hiking or biking." Dogs are allowed on these trails but must be leashed outside of designated off-leash areas.

• Pet Waste Stations: Throughout the park, and typically within any designated dog areas, pet waste stations with bags and disposal bins are provided to encourage responsible cleanup by owners.

• Restrooms and Water Fountains: As a metropolitan park, public restrooms and water fountains are available, providing convenience for human visitors.

• Open Spaces for Exercise: Even outside the fenced trial area, the vast open spaces of the park are "great for walking your dog and exercising too," as noted by a reviewer, allowing for ample on-leash activity.

Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park offers a rich set of features that make it a highly attractive destination for dog owners, especially when considering the "Dog park (trial)" aspect. Its highlights include:

• Vast Metropolitan Park Setting: This is not just a dog park but an integrated part of a large, well-maintained metropolitan park. This provides a beautiful backdrop for walks and ensures a wide variety of activities for the whole family.

• "Great for Walking Your Dog and Exercising": As highlighted by a local review, the park is excellent for both leisurely walks and more vigorous exercise for dogs, thanks to its extensive trail system and open areas.

• Scenic Trails: The "5.9 miles of scenic trails" offer diverse landscapes for exploration, from open fields to areas along Slaughter Creek, providing varied sensory experiences for dogs.

• Pilot Off-Leash Area Initiative: The "Dog Off-Leash Area Pilot Programs" demonstrate the City of Austin's commitment to creating dedicated spaces for dogs, gathering community feedback to inform future, potentially permanent, off-leash zones. This indicates a responsive and forward-thinking approach to pet recreation.

• Other Park Amenities: The broader park offers amenities like youth soccer fields, disc golf courses, playgrounds, and picnic areas, making it a versatile destination for families with dogs.

• Shaded Areas: Reviews of the park mention "shaded areas to beat the heat," which is a crucial feature in the Texas climate, providing comfort for both pets and owners.

It is important for visitors to be aware that while the pilot off-leash area at this specific location concluded on June 3, 2025, and fences have been removed, the park remains a dog-friendly space where leashed dogs are welcome on trails and in general park areas. Any future decisions about a permanent off-leash area will consider the feedback from this pilot program.

As a public metropolitan park managed by the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD), Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park does not typically offer commercial promotions or special discounts. Access to the park and its various amenities (including the former dog off-leash trial area) is generally free for the public. Maintenance and improvements are funded through city budgets and potentially through partnerships with organizations like the Austin Parks Foundation.

Any "promotions" related to the dog off-leash trial would have been in the form of opportunities for community feedback or participation in surveys regarding the pilot program. While the trial concluded, PARD's ongoing efforts to create suitable dog off-leash areas are a continuous benefit to the community. For information on any community events, volunteer opportunities, or updates on park amenities, residents should consult the official City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department website.

For more specific details or inquiries about Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park, its trails, or any future initiatives regarding dog off-leash areas, you should contact the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD).

Address: 6301 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78739, USA

Phone: (512) 974-6700 (This is the general contact number for the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park.)

Website: For the most current information, including park hours, rules, and updates on dog off-leash areas, it is highly recommended to visit the official City of Austin Parks and Recreation website: austintexas.gov/parks

For dog owners in Austin, particularly those in the southern parts of the city, Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park at 6301 W Slaughter Ln remains an incredibly suitable and valuable destination for canine exercise and enjoyment. While the designated "Dog park (trial)" was a temporary initiative, its inclusion highlights the city's commitment to exploring and providing off-leash opportunities within its extensive park system. Even with the conclusion of the specific pilot program, the vastness of the park, with its "5.9 miles of scenic trails," offers unparalleled opportunities for leashed walks, runs, and exploration, which is crucial for a dog's well-being.

The park's existing amenities, such as restrooms, water fountains, and shaded areas, contribute to a comfortable experience for human companions. Its role as a metropolitan park means it is well-maintained and provides a safe environment for outdoor activities. For locals seeking a place where they can truly connect with nature and engage in active outdoor pursuits with their dogs, Circle C Ranch Metropolitan Park stands out. Its continuous evolution, guided by community feedback through programs like the off-leash trials, demonstrates a responsiveness to the needs of Austin's vibrant dog-owning population, making it an enduring and highly suitable choice for any local looking to give their dog a fantastic outdoor experience in Texas.