USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park and Westcreek Disc Golf Course

For dog owners in Parker, Colorado, and the surrounding communities, finding a dedicated and well-equipped space for their furry companions to run, play, and socialize is a top priority. The USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park and Westcreek Disc Golf Course stands as a unique and cherished local amenity. Named in a heartfelt tribute to a fallen Marine and his K9 partner, this park offers a significant area for off-leash canine enjoyment, alongside recreational opportunities for humans.

More than just a typical dog park, this location provides a thoughtfully designed environment that caters to various canine needs, from high-energy play to comfortable relaxation. Its commitment to providing a safe and engaging space, coupled with a community that clearly values its four-legged members, makes it a notable destination for anyone looking to give their dog a fantastic outdoor experience in Parker.

The USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park is a premier off-leash dog park situated in Parker, Colorado. It holds special significance as a memorial dedicated to Corporal David M. Sonka, a Marine from Colorado who, along with his military working dog, Flex, was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2013. This dedication underscores the park's commitment to honoring service and providing a valuable community resource.

Opened as the Town of Parker's first official dog park, it spans nearly five acres, offering ample space for dogs to play freely. It’s uniquely co-located with the Westcreek Disc Golf Course, making it a multi-faceted recreational hub. The park aims to provide a safe, clean, and enjoyable environment for dogs of all sizes, fostering socialization and active lifestyles for both pets and their owners. From dedicated play zones to essential amenities, it strives to meet the diverse needs of Parker’s dog-loving community.

The USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park and Westcreek Disc Golf Course is conveniently located at 17855 Pine Ln, Parker, CO 80134, USA. This address places it in a highly accessible area for residents of Parker and also for those in surrounding Douglas County communities. Its proximity to major roads ensures a straightforward drive for most visitors.

The park offers free and convenient parking, which is a significant advantage, allowing for easy access from your vehicle directly to the off-leash areas. The layout of the park, adjacent to the disc golf course, provides a clear and defined space. While it's generally easy to get to, local users should be aware of parking lot safety, as there have been reports of vehicle break-ins, making it advisable to take all valuables with you when leaving your car.

The park is unlit, with hours from dawn until dusk, so planning your visit during daylight hours is recommended for optimal enjoyment and safety. It's also noted as wheelchair accessible, promoting inclusivity for all visitors.

The USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park provides a range of thoughtful services and amenities designed to enhance the experience for dogs and their owners:

• Separate Large and Small Dog Areas: The park is divided into distinct sections to cater to dogs of different sizes and play styles. This ensures a safer and more comfortable environment for smaller or more timid dogs, allowing them to play without being overwhelmed by larger, more boisterous canines.
• Water Fountain with Dog Water Bowls: A crucial amenity, particularly during warmer months, is the water fountain equipped with several dog water bowls. This provides a convenient and readily available source of fresh drinking water for thirsty pups, although it may be turned off during colder periods to prevent freezing.
• Poop Bag and Can Stations: To promote cleanliness and responsible pet ownership, the park offers numerous stations stocked with dog waste bags and waste receptacles throughout the large and small dog areas.
• Accessible Restrooms: Pit toilet bathrooms are located just outside the dog park area. These facilities are noted for being clean, well-stocked with toilet paper, and even hand sanitizer, which is a significant convenience for human visitors.

The USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park offers several key features that make it a standout destination for Parker dog owners:

• Pea Gravel Surface: The park utilizes small gravel pebbles as its ground cover rather than sand or dirt. This is a highly appreciated feature as it significantly reduces mud, especially after rain or snowmelt, leading to cleaner paws and vehicles.
• Perimeter Walkway: A recent and popular addition is a paved walkway along the perimeter of the park. This feature is much easier to walk on than sand or gravel, allowing owners to comfortably get their steps in while their dogs play off-leash, improving overall accessibility and enjoyment.
• Covered Benches: Strategic placement of covered benches provides welcome shade in both the large and small dog areas. This offers comfortable resting spots for owners, particularly important given the park's generally open and unshaded spaces.
• Agility Course: The park includes dog-friendly obstacles and an agility course (with ramps and platforms) where dogs can challenge themselves, practice commands, and engage in more structured play, adding variety to their exercise routine.
• **"Tennis Ball Fairy" Phenomenon:** A delightful informal highlight, some visitors report that a "Tennis Ball Fairy" occasionally leaves a "TON of tennis balls" in the park. This unexpected bounty adds an element of fun and ensures there are plenty of toys for all the pups to enjoy.
• Adjacent Westcreek Disc Golf Course: The park's proximity to the disc golf course offers an additional recreational option for human visitors or mixed groups, making it a versatile outdoor destination.
• Memorial Dedication: The park's dedication to USMC CPL David M. Sonka and his K9 is a touching and respectful feature, serving as a constant reminder of sacrifice and loyalty.

As a public park managed by the Town of Parker Parks and Recreation Department, the USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the retail sense. Its primary "promotion" is its status as a free-to-enter public amenity, providing invaluable recreational space for Parker residents and their pets without any associated fees for entry or use.

The value of this park comes from its well-maintained facilities and the services it provides at no direct cost to the user. Any "special offers" would likely manifest as community-organized events, such as dog-related gatherings, adoption events, or perhaps even disc golf tournaments that might coincide with park usage. These events would typically be announced through Parker Parks and Recreation channels or local community groups. The unexpected appearance of the "Tennis Ball Fairy" could also be considered a delightful, informal "special offer" for regular visitors!

For inquiries regarding the USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park and Westcreek Disc Golf Course, or for general information about Parker's parks and recreation facilities, you can contact the Town of Parker Parks and Recreation Department.

Address: 17855 Pine Ln, Parker, CO 80134, USA

Phone: (303) 841-0353

This phone number will connect you to the main line for Parker Parks and Recreation, where staff can provide details on park hours (dawn to dusk), rules, maintenance updates, or information on specific events. For the most current official information, it is always advisable to visit the official Town of Parker Parks and Recreation website.

For dog owners in Parker, Colorado, the USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park is an outstanding and highly suitable local resource. Its thoughtful design, including separate areas for large and small dogs, ensures a safe and comfortable environment for canines of all sizes and temperaments. This separation is crucial for preventing conflicts and allowing dogs to play appropriately with peers.

The park's choice of pea gravel over sand or dirt is a significant advantage for locals, meaning less mud and dirt tracking into homes and vehicles, even after inclement weather. The recent addition of a perimeter walkway vastly improves accessibility and comfort for human companions, allowing them to easily get their steps in while their dogs enjoy off-leash freedom. Covered benches and ample poop bag stations further enhance the user experience, demonstrating a commitment to comfort and cleanliness.

While the reports of parking lot break-ins are a serious concern that users should be mindful of by securing valuables, the overall quality and thoughtful amenities of the park remain a strong draw. The presence of a water fountain (when operational) and an agility course adds practical value and enrichment opportunities for dogs. Moreover, the park's dedication as a memorial adds a layer of community pride and respect. For any Parker resident seeking a well-maintained, feature-rich, and community-oriented off-leash space for their beloved dog, the USMC CPL David M. Sonka Dog Park is an excellent choice, providing a valuable local resource for canine exercise and socialization.