Mitchell Edelson Dog Park

For dog owners across California, providing their beloved companions with ample space to run, play, and socialize freely is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. In the serene and picturesque Ojai Valley, residents are fortunate to have access to a truly exceptional facility that meets these needs: Mitchell Edelson Dog Park. Located within the larger Soule Park, this dedicated dog park offers more than just an open field; it's a meticulously designed and well-maintained environment specifically crafted for the joy and well-being of canine friends. This comprehensive article will provide a detailed overview of Mitchell Edelson Dog Park, highlighting its prime location, the extensive services and features it offers, and why it has become a cherished staple for dog lovers throughout Ventura County and beyond.

Mitchell Edelson Dog Park, often recognized as a gem within Soule Park, stands as a testament to thoughtful park design and community dedication. Spanning one acre, it provides a secure and engaging off-leash area for dogs to exercise and interact. What truly sets this park apart is its intelligent division into two separate, fenced-in play areas: one specifically for large dogs and another for smaller dogs weighing under 20 lbs. This careful segregation ensures that every dog, regardless of size or temperament, can enjoy a safe and comfortable play experience, fostering positive interactions and reducing potential stress.

Visitors consistently praise the park for its cleanliness and well-maintained grounds. Beyond the expansive play spaces, Mitchell Edelson Dog Park is well-equipped with amenities for both dogs and their human companions. Mature oak trees provide much-needed natural shade, creating comfortable resting spots even on sunny California days. Doggie water fountains keep pups hydrated, and conveniently located "Mutt Mitts" and waste receptacles encourage responsible clean-up, contributing to the park's overall pristine condition. For those looking to add an extra element of fun, the park also features agility equipment. Monitored by various county departments, including Ventura County Animal Services and the Ventura County Parks Department, the park emphasizes safety and adherence to rules, making it a reliable and welcoming destination for the Ojai community.

Mitchell Edelson Dog Park is ideally located within Soule Park at 1033 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023, USA. This address places it conveniently in the heart of the Ojai Valley, making it easily accessible for residents of Ojai and surrounding communities in Ventura County. The park's setting within the larger Soule Park complex means it benefits from the established infrastructure and pleasant surroundings of a well-regarded community park.

Accessibility to Mitchell Edelson Dog Park is generally straightforward. Parking is available within Soule Park. It is important for visitors to note that Soule Park has a day-use fee for vehicles: $2.00 per vehicle on weekdays and $5.00 per vehicle on weekends/holidays. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the entire park, including the dog park facilities. The dog park itself features double-gated entrances, a crucial safety measure that prevents dogs from accidentally escaping when others enter or exit the enclosure. Its location on East Ojai Avenue provides clear road access. For those utilizing public transport, checking local Ojai transit routes would be advisable. The integration within Soule Park also means a well-maintained environment around the dog park, enhancing the overall visitor experience. This prime location and thoughtful access points make Mitchell Edelson Dog Park a convenient and popular choice for local dog owners.

• Off-Leash Play Areas: The park provides two separate, fully fenced-in areas where dogs can safely run, play, and socialize without leashes, promoting vigorous exercise and crucial interaction.
• Separate Large Dog Area: One designated play area is specifically for large dogs.
• Separate Small Dog Area: The other designated play area is for small dogs weighing under 20 lbs, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for smaller breeds.
• Doggie Water Fountains: The park is equipped with accessible water fountains for dogs, ensuring they stay hydrated during playtime.
• Benches and Seating: Numerous benches are available within the dog park areas, providing comfortable spots for owners to rest and supervise their pets.
• Mutt Mitts and Waste Receptacles: Dog waste bags ("Mutt Mitts") are readily available, along with conveniently placed waste receptacles, encouraging owners to clean up after their dogs and maintain park hygiene.
• Agility Equipment: The park includes various agility obstacles, offering an extra element of fun, training, and mental stimulation for dogs.
• Double-Gated Entrances: Secure double gates are installed at the entrance to each enclosure, preventing dogs from escaping while others are entering or exiting.
• Dog Wash Area: Some sources indicate that a wash area may be available for a fee, allowing owners to clean their dogs before leaving the park. (Verification recommended on-site).

• Dedicated Play Zones: The clear and well-defined separation of large and small dog areas is a significant highlight, catering to the diverse needs and sizes of the canine population and promoting safer interactions.
• Mature Oak Tree Shade: The presence of mature oak trees provides natural, ample shade, which is a highly valued feature, especially during warm California weather.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Visitors frequently praise the park for its cleanliness and the diligent upkeep of its grounds and amenities.
• Comprehensive Amenities: The provision of water fountains, benches, Mutt Mitts, and waste receptacles demonstrates a thorough approach to visitor comfort and park hygiene.
• Agility Equipment: The inclusion of agility features adds a dynamic element to the park, offering dogs more than just an open space for play.
• Monitored Environment: The park is monitored by Ventura County Animal Services, Ventura County Parks Department, and the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, ensuring rules are enforced and promoting a safer atmosphere.
• Part of Soule Park: Being situated within the larger Soule Park complex means visitors can also access other park amenities (like restrooms, picnic areas, and trails) and enjoy the overall beautiful park setting.
• Strict Licensing Requirement: Dogs must be licensed to use the facility, which helps ensure a healthy and responsible dog population within the park.

As a public facility managed by the Ventura County Parks Department within Soule Park, Mitchell Edelson Dog Park does not offer commercial promotions or special discounts for entry, as its access is provided for the community's benefit. The primary "offer" is the consistent provision of a well-maintained, safe, and engaging off-leash environment for dogs.

However, as part of the broader Ventura County Parks system, there may be community events, educational workshops, or pet-related programs organized by the county or local animal services that take place in Soule Park or other county facilities. For example, Ventura County Animal Services might host vaccination clinics or responsible pet ownership seminars. While these are not direct monetary promotions for the dog park itself, they provide valuable community services and opportunities for engagement for dog owners. To stay informed about any such county-sponsored initiatives or temporary closures due to maintenance, weather, or special events, it is highly recommended that locals check the official Ventura County Parks Department website, particularly the page for Mitchell Edelson Dog Park at Soule Park, or the Ventura County Animal Services website. Remember that a day-use parking fee applies to enter Soule Park.

For general inquiries about Mitchell Edelson Dog Park, including its operating hours, specific rules and regulations, or any county-sponsored events, you can contact the Ventura County Parks Department.

Address: 1033 E Ojai Ave, Ojai, CA 93023, USA (located within Soule Park)

Phone: (805) 654-3990 (Ventura County Parks Department general information)

For dog licensing inquiries: (805) 388-4341 (Ventura County Animal Services)

Operating Hours: The park is open daily. Hours vary by season:

• November - February: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
• March and October: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• April, May, September: 7:30 AM - 7:30 PM
• June - August: 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM

It is always recommended to verify these hours, especially on holidays or for any specific closures, by contacting the provided phone numbers or checking the official Ventura County Parks Department website. Remember that a day-use parking fee applies to enter Soule Park.

For residents of Ojai and throughout Ventura County, Mitchell Edelson Dog Park at Soule Park stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly valued recreational asset for their beloved dogs. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted, primarily stemming from its thoughtful design, comprehensive amenities, and the county's commitment to maintaining a high-quality public space. The explicit separation of the park into distinct, spacious areas for small and large dogs is a critical advantage, ensuring that every dog, regardless of size or energy level, can play safely and comfortably. This feature is particularly appreciated by owners of smaller breeds, who often seek environments free from the potential intimidation of larger dogs.

The presence of mature oak trees providing natural shade is a significant comfort, especially during warm California days, making visits more enjoyable for both pets and their human companions. The readily available doggie water fountains ensure hydration, and the provision of Mutt Mitts and waste receptacles promotes a clean and hygienic environment, reflecting the park's overall excellent maintenance. The inclusion of agility equipment adds an extra layer of engagement, encouraging physical and mental stimulation for dogs.

Furthermore, the park's monitoring by various county departments and the strict enforcement of rules, including dog licensing, contribute to a sense of order and safety. While there is a nominal parking fee for Soule Park, it is a small investment for access to such a well-appointed and managed facility. For Californians in Ojai seeking a clean, safe, well-equipped, and community-oriented space where their dogs can truly thrive and they can enjoy the picturesque surroundings, Mitchell Edelson Dog Park is an excellent choice, consistently providing a positive and enriching experience for the local dog-owning community.