Fox Run Dog Park

For dog owners in Colorado Springs and the broader El Paso County area, finding a truly exceptional place for your furry family member to run, explore, and socialize is a top priority. The Fox Run Dog Park, nestled within the expansive Fox Run Regional Park, offers a delightful retreat that consistently earns praise from the local community. This well-maintained off-leash area provides a blend of open space and natural shade, creating an inviting environment for dogs of all sizes and energy levels.

The Fox Run Dog Park, established in 2013, is a five-acre off-leash facility located in the southeast corner of the beautiful Fox Run Regional Park. It was opened in response to community demand for a safe and dedicated space for dogs to play freely. What sets this park apart is its natural, forested setting, with numerous ponderosa pines providing excellent shade – a highly valued feature during Colorado's sunny days.

Unlike some open, treeless dog parks, Fox Run offers a more engaging environment with a half-mile loop trail, allowing for a good walk for both dogs and their owners. It's a place where dogs can play "hide and seek" among the trees and enjoy a more natural terrain. The park is well-regarded for its generally well-behaved canine visitors and responsible owners, contributing to a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone. While visitors are advised to bring their own water, the park offers other essential amenities that make it a favorite destination in the Colorado Springs area.

The Fox Run Dog Park is located at 2110 Stella Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921, USA, within the larger Fox Run Regional Park. To access the dog park, visitors should use the main park entrance off Stella Drive and then take the first right, continuing straight to the south of the active use fields. This directs you to the specific area where the dog park is situated.

The park is conveniently located in the northern part of Colorado Springs, near the Black Forest area, making it easily accessible for residents from various parts of the city and surrounding communities. Ample and free parking is available, ensuring a smooth arrival. The park operates from dawn to dusk, providing extended hours for morning and evening visits. While the dog park itself doesn't have dedicated restrooms immediately adjacent, public restrooms are available within the larger Fox Run Regional Park, though they may require a short walk and are typically closed from October through May due to winterization.

• Spacious Off-Leash Area: A five-acre fenced enclosure allows dogs ample room to run, play, and explore off-leash, promoting physical activity and socialization.

• Separate Small Dog Area: A dedicated 1.5-acre fenced area specifically for smaller dogs (under 25 pounds) or shy dogs, ensuring a safer and less overwhelming environment for them to play.

• Designated Walking Trail: A half-mile loop trail within the off-leash area provides a structured path for walks and exploration.

• Water Bowls: While a water fountain is not available, picnic tables at the park have water bowls that can be filled by owners who bring their own water, a common practice among regulars.

• Waste Bag Dispensers: Bag dispensers and trash receptacles are available to encourage responsible waste disposal and maintain cleanliness within the park.

• Benches and Seating: Picnic tables and benches are scattered throughout the park, offering comfortable resting spots for dog owners.

• Abundant Natural Shade: The presence of numerous ponderosa pine trees provides extensive natural shade, a significant advantage for both dogs and owners during hot Colorado days.

• Natural, Wooded Environment: The park's setting within a regional park offers a more rustic and engaging experience, allowing dogs to enjoy varied terrain and the feel of a forest walk.

• Secure Fencing and Double-Gated Entrances: The five-foot fence around the main area and four-foot fence for the small dog area, combined with secure entrances, ensures a safe and contained environment for off-leash play.

• Opportunity for Training: Some visitors have noted areas or features that allow for basic dog training exercises, adding to the park's utility.

• Community Atmosphere: The park is frequently praised for its friendly and responsible community of dog owners, leading to positive interactions and a welcoming environment.

• Integrated within a Regional Park: Being part of Fox Run Regional Park means visitors can combine their dog park visit with on-leash walks on the park's extensive trails, enjoying the overall natural beauty.

The Fox Run Dog Park itself is a public amenity provided by El Paso County Parks and Recreation, and as such, it is free to use, without any specific entry fees or ongoing promotions directly for the dog park.

However, as part of the larger Fox Run Regional Park, visitors may find opportunities related to the park system or local events. El Paso County Parks and Recreation occasionally hosts events within their regional parks, some of which may be pet-friendly or related to pet care. For example, the park system might have events like "Winter Fun at Fox Run" which includes dog costume contests, or open houses for the new Fox Run Nature Center that provide community engagement opportunities.

To stay informed about any relevant community events, dog-related health clinics (like vaccination drives), or educational programs that might offer special rates or free services in the Colorado Springs area, it's advisable for local dog owners to check the official El Paso County Community Services website (specifically their Parks and Recreation section) or their social media channels.

For inquiries regarding the Fox Run Dog Park, maintenance, rules, or general information about Fox Run Regional Park, you can contact El Paso County Parks and Recreation.

Address: While the dog park is located within, the official park address is 2110 Stella Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921, USA.

Phone: (719) 520-7529

For more detailed information, the El Paso County Community Services website is an excellent resource for park rules, amenities, and updates.

For Colorado Springs residents, the Fox Run Dog Park offers a truly distinct and highly suitable environment for their canine companions. Its five-acre expanse, coupled with the unique advantage of a natural, forested setting, sets it apart from many other dog parks in the region. The abundant shade provided by the ponderosa pines is an invaluable asset, especially during Colorado's warm summer months, ensuring dogs can play comfortably without overheating.

The thoughtful inclusion of a separate 1.5-acre area for small or shy dogs demonstrates a commitment to catering to the diverse needs of the canine community, providing a safe and less intimidating space for more sensitive pups or puppies. The secure fencing and well-maintained loop trail encourage both vigorous exercise and engaging walks. While bringing your own water is a minor consideration, the presence of waste bags and a generally responsible community of dog owners contribute to a clean and pleasant atmosphere.

Beyond its direct amenities, the integration of the dog park within the beautiful Fox Run Regional Park allows for extended outdoor experiences. Owners can combine off-leash play with scenic on-leash walks on the park's extensive trails, making it a comprehensive destination for outdoor enthusiasts and their pets. For locals seeking a spacious, shaded, and engaging environment where their dogs can thrive and socialize responsibly, Fox Run Dog Park is undoubtedly a premier choice in Colorado Springs, embodying the active, outdoor lifestyle that defines our beautiful state.