Harris Family Dog Park

For dog owners in Wisconsin, particularly those in the Salem Lakes area and across Kenosha County, finding a dedicated and spacious environment for their canine companions to run, play, and socialize off-leash is a highly valued amenity. Harris Family Dog Park, nestled within Old Settlers Park in Salem Lakes, WI, offers just such a space. This fee-based park is a key part of the Kenosha County Parks system, providing a vital outlet for dog exercise and community interaction.

Harris Family Dog Park is characterized by its "huge dog park, all in one big grassy field for pups to run around on," as described by a delighted visitor. This expansive open space is ideal for dogs that thrive on vigorous activity and require ample room to stretch their legs. The park provides a simple yet effective environment for dogs to engage in natural behaviors, from chasing balls to romping with other canines. It aims to foster a community where "Dogs and people interact and know each other by name," reflecting a friendly atmosphere among regulars.

While some experiences at public dog parks can be unpredictable, the primary goal of Harris Family Dog Park, like all Kenosha County dog parks, is to offer a safe and enjoyable environment for permitted dogs. It is crucial for users to adhere to park rules and etiquette to ensure a positive experience for everyone. The park's management by Kenosha County Parks implies a commitment to maintaining a functional space, even as natural elements like winter winds and muddy conditions present challenges. For local Wisconsinites looking for a significant off-leash area for their dogs, Harris Family Dog Park presents a straightforward option for daily exercise and socialization within a designated, managed space.

Harris Family Dog Park is conveniently located at

24100 75th St, Salem Lakes, WI 53168, USA

The park is situated within Old Settlers Park, a larger multi-use county park. Its location on 75th Street (Highway K) near the intersection of Highway 83 in Salem Lakes offers straightforward access for those traveling by car. For individuals looking for a stop during longer journeys, it's also noted as being a "great pit stop, about 5-10 miles west of 94 for long haul road trippers," indicating its convenient proximity to major interstate routes for wider accessibility across the region.

Visitors will find ample parking available at Old Settlers Park, making it easy to bring their furry friends for a visit without the stress of finding a spot. While direct public transportation might be limited to this specific rural location, the road accessibility ensures that the park is a viable option for most local residents. The park's setting within Old Settlers Park also means that while the dog park is a specific fenced area, the surrounding park environment offers additional green space and amenities that contribute to a larger recreational outing. This convenient and accessible location is a significant factor in its suitability for local dog owners seeking dedicated off-leash areas in Wisconsin.

• Large Off-Leash Area: Harris Family Dog Park provides a significant "large grassy area" where dogs can run freely off-leash. This open space is designed for robust play and exercise, catering to dogs that require ample room to stretch their legs.
• Water Fountain: The park is equipped with a water fountain specifically for dogs, helping to keep them hydrated during their playtime, especially beneficial during warmer months. It's noted that the water and bathroom facilities might be a "short walk away" from the main fenced area, so owners should plan accordingly.
• Bench Seating: Benches are available within the dog park, offering comfortable spots for owners to sit, relax, and supervise their dogs. These shaded areas provide a respite, particularly on sunny days.
• Shaded Spaces: The presence of "nice trees" provides natural shade, a valuable feature for both dogs and owners during warmer weather, offering relief from direct sunlight.
• Waste Disposal Bags & Receptacles: While not explicitly detailed in all reviews, as part of the Kenosha County Parks system, it is standard for dog parks to provide waste disposal bags and bins. This encourages and facilitates responsible pet ownership, helping to maintain park cleanliness.
• Access to Kenosha County Dog Park System: A unique feature of Harris Family Dog Park is that a single annual or daily pass grants access to all three off-leash dog parks within the Kenosha County Parks system, including Carlisle Family Dog Park and Warren Close Bark Park. This offers flexibility and variety for local dog owners.

• Vast Open Grassy Field: The most prominent feature is its "huge dog park, all in one big grassy field." This expansive, uninterrupted space is ideal for high-energy dogs to sprint, play fetch, and engage in full-speed antics, providing excellent physical exercise.
• Natural Shade from Trees: The presence of "nice trees" provides natural shade, which is a significant asset during warm Wisconsin summers, offering cool spots for dogs and owners to rest.
• Part of Kenosha County Parks System: Being one of three off-leash dog parks in Kenosha County means that a single permit grants access to multiple locations, offering variety and different environments for dogs and owners to explore. This interconnectedness is a valuable feature for county residents.
• Established Community of Regulars: Reviews mention that "Dogs and people interact and know each other by name," indicating a strong community of regular visitors. This fosters a friendly atmosphere where dogs can develop consistent playmates and owners can build friendships, enriching the overall park experience.
• Convenient Location near Major Routes: Its proximity to Highway 94 makes it an easy stop for local residents and even those traveling through Wisconsin, highlighting its accessibility and utility for a broader audience.
• Fee-Based Access for Managed Environment: The requirement for an annual or daily pass ensures that the park is a managed facility, with fees contributing to its maintenance and oversight by Kenosha County Parks. This structure aims to provide a more controlled and responsibly managed environment for off-leash dog play.

Harris Family Dog Park, as part of the Kenosha County Parks system, operates on a permit-based entry model rather than traditional commercial promotions. The "special offer" here is the access to all three Kenosha County off-leash dog parks with a single permit, providing excellent value for dog owners who frequent these facilities. The fees contribute directly to the maintenance and management of these vital public spaces.

Here are the permit options and their associated costs for Harris Family Dog Park and the other Kenosha County dog parks:

• Daily Pass:
  • Kenosha County Residents: $3.00
  • Non-County Residents: $6.00
• Annual Dog Park Tag (valid for one calendar year):
  • Kenosha County Residents (1st Dog): $20.00
  • Non-County Residents (1st Dog): $25.00
  • Additional Dog(s) Annual Tag: $5.00 per dog
• Discounts are available for specific groups:
  • Seniors (60+ years):
    • Kenosha County Residents: $10.00
    • Non-County Residents: $15.00
  • Residents with Disabilities:
    • Kenosha County Residents: $10.00
    • Non-County Residents: $15.00
• Replacement Tag: $5.00

Annual dog park tags can be purchased online through the Kenosha County website, or in person at various municipal locations within Kenosha County (such as the Kenosha County Center Elected Officials Office, Kenosha County Administrative Building, Paddock Lake Municipal Building, Pleasant Prairie Village Office, Randall Town Hall, Somers Town Office, Twin Lakes Village Hall, and Wheatland Town Hall). Mail-in applications are also accepted, with a $3 shipping/handling fee. Please note that municipalities may charge a $2 administration fee for in-person purchases.

All dogs must be properly licensed by their respective municipality and display their license tag, along with a current rabies vaccination tag, while in the dog park. These requirements ensure the safety and health of all dogs and their owners. While not "promotions" in the commercial sense, these pricing structures and access to multiple parks are designed to provide value to the local community, making it easier for responsible dog owners to utilize these facilities regularly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and how to purchase a permit, always refer to the official Kenosha County Parks website.

Address: 24100 75th St, Salem Lakes, WI 53168, USA

Phone: (262) 857-1869

The provided phone number, (262) 857-1869, is the general contact line for the Kenosha County Division of Parks. This is the primary point of contact for all inquiries related to Harris Family Dog Park, as it falls under their management. You can use this number for questions regarding park rules and regulations, permit requirements and purchases, operational hours, or to report any maintenance concerns.

For additional contact methods or specific departmental inquiries, such as those related to dog park tags or general park administration, it is advisable to visit the official website of Kenosha County Parks. Their website typically provides comprehensive information, including online permit applications, frequently asked questions, and potentially additional contact details for specific divisions within the parks department.

While individual dog parks within the county system do not have dedicated phone lines, the central contact number for Kenosha County Parks ensures that all relevant information and assistance can be obtained. For immediate concerns or emergencies at the park, standard emergency services (911) should be contacted, while non-emergency issues can be directed to the provided county parks number during business hours.

For dog owners living in Wisconsin, especially within Kenosha County and the surrounding areas, Harris Family Dog Park offers a suitable and accessible solution for their pets' exercise and social needs. Despite some noted concerns regarding specific past experiences and environmental factors, the park's fundamental features make it a valuable local amenity.

Firstly, its expansive open grassy field is a significant draw. In urban and suburban areas where private yards might be small or non-existent, having a large, fenced area for dogs to run freely is paramount for their physical health and behavioral well-being. This generous space allows for high-energy activities like chasing and sprinting, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and alleviating pent-up energy in active breeds.

Secondly, the park's inclusion within the Kenosha County Parks system means it is a managed facility. The requirement for annual or daily passes, while a cost, ensures that there is a revenue stream dedicated to the upkeep of the park. This system also helps to ensure that dogs using the facility are licensed and vaccinated, contributing to the overall safety and health of the canine population that frequents the park. This level of oversight, even with occasional challenges in etiquette, is a benefit of a managed public space.

Furthermore, the park fosters a sense of community among its regulars. The observation that "Dogs and people interact and know each other by name" highlights the potential for owners to build connections, share advice, and form a supportive network. For many dog owners, the social aspect of a dog park, for both themselves and their pets, is just as important as the physical exercise.

Lastly, its convenient location in Salem Lakes, with easy access from major roads, makes it a practical choice for daily visits or weekend outings. The availability of a water fountain and shaded areas are essential amenities that contribute to a more comfortable experience for both dogs and their handlers. While the park faces natural challenges like wind and mud during certain seasons, these are common in outdoor spaces and can often be mitigated by dressing appropriately and having towels for muddy paws. Ultimately, for Kenosha County residents seeking a large, managed, and community-oriented off-leash dog park, Harris Family Dog Park remains a viable and beneficial local resource.