Lake County is a great place to live if you have a dog. With miles of trails, multiple parks, and easy access to the Indiana Dunes, there are plenty of places where you and your four-legged friend can get outside and explore together.
Here is a guide to dog-friendly outdoor spaces in Lake County, Indiana.
Wolf Lake in Hammond
Wolf Lake Memorial Park in Hammond is one of the best places in Lake County to walk your dog. The park has walking and biking trails that circle the lake, offering beautiful water views and plenty of space to stretch your legs. The trails are well maintained and stroller-friendly, making them accessible for dogs of all sizes. The park also has a designated dog park area where your pup can run off leash. After your walk, you can relax on one of the benches overlooking the water. See our Hammond neighborhood guide for more information.
Centennial Park in Munster
Munster's Centennial Park is a 200-acre outdoor recreation area with a 3-acre dog park that is a favorite among local pet owners. The dog park is fully fenced and has separate areas for large and small dogs. The walking paths around Maynard Lake are also dog-friendly on leash. It is a great place to spend a weekend morning with your dog. See our Munster neighborhood guide for more information.
Lake County Parks and Trails
Many Lake County parks have trails where leashed dogs are welcome. The Erie-Lackawanna Trail stretches from Crown Point to Hammond and is a great option for a long walk or bike ride with your dog. Lemon Lake County Park in Crown Point has hiking trails that are dog-friendly. Teibel Nature Park in Schererville offers a peaceful wooded walk. Always check the specific park rules before visiting, as some areas may have restrictions during certain seasons.
Indiana Dunes National Park
The Indiana Dunes National Park allows leashed dogs on most of its trails. This includes popular hikes like the Cowles Bog Trail and the West Beach boardwalk. Dogs are not permitted on swimming beaches during the summer season, but many of the park's inland trails are open to well-behaved pups year-round. It is always a good idea to check the current park rules before heading out, as regulations can change. The Dunes are about a 20 to 40 minute drive from most Lake County communities.
Community Parks Across the County
Almost every town in Lake County has community parks with walking paths that are suitable for dogs on leashes. Crown Point's Bulldog Park has walking paths around the park. Highland Park has open green space and walking paths. St. John's Wicker Memorial Park has trails that are dog-friendly. Dyer's community parks offer neighborhood walking options. Cedar Lake has walking paths near the lake that are popular with dog owners. Always clean up after your dog and keep them leashed unless you are in a designated off-leash area.
Pet Stores and Outdoor Dining
In addition to parks and trails, many local pet stores welcome well-behaved dogs inside. Many restaurants with outdoor patios in Lake County also allow dogs, especially during the warmer months. It is always a good idea to call ahead to confirm a restaurant's pet policy before bringing your dog along. Downtown Crown Point's square, Highland's Ridge Road, and Dyer's Sheffield Avenue all have outdoor dining options that may be dog-friendly.
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Wolf Lake in Hammond has walking trails and a dog park area
- ✓ Centennial Park in Munster features a 3-acre dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs
- ✓ Many Lake County parks have trails where leashed dogs are welcome
- ✓ The Indiana Dunes National Park allows leashed dogs on most trails
- ✓ Always check individual park rules before visiting with your dog
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I take my dog off leash in Lake County?
Centennial Park in Munster has a 3-acre dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs. Wolf Lake in Hammond also has a designated dog park area. These are the best options for off-leash play in Lake County.
Can I bring my dog to the Indiana Dunes?
Yes, leashed dogs are allowed on most trails in the Indiana Dunes National Park. However, dogs are not permitted on swimming beaches during the summer season. Always check current park rules before visiting.
What are the best walking trails for dogs in Lake County?
The Erie-Lackawanna Trail from Crown Point to Hammond is a great option for a long walk. Wolf Lake in Hammond has scenic trails around the lake. Centennial Park in Munster has walking paths around Maynard Lake. Lemon Lake County Park in Crown Point has hiking trails that are dog-friendly.
Are there dog-friendly restaurants in Lake County?
Many restaurants in Lake County with outdoor patios allow dogs, especially during the warmer months. It is always a good idea to call ahead to confirm a restaurant's pet policy before bringing your dog along.
Lake County is a wonderful place for dog owners. If you are thinking about moving to the 219 and want a home with access to great parks and trails for your four-legged family member, I would love to help. Get in touch anytime.
Also explore our outdoor and recreation guide and neighborhood guides for more on living in Lake County.