SLO’s only dog park is reopening after major remodel. Here’s when and what’s new
San Luis Obispo’s only dog park is reopening to the public following the completion of a nine-month renovation project.
Laguna Lake Dog Park, 504 Madonna Road in San Luis Obispo, will welcome dog owners and their furry companions starting Friday, May 30, according to a city news release.
The city spent $1.3 million to tear out diseased tree stumps, add fencing and develop new areas for small and large dogs to repair and update the aging dog park, according to Greg Avakian, San Luis Obispo’s Parks and Recreation Department director.
“These long-awaited upgrades will provide a safer and more accessible dog park for all of our community to enjoy,” Avakian said in a news release.
Why did SLO’s only dog park get a facelift?
Prior to renovations, the 3-acre off-leash dog park near Laguna Lake had deteriorated significantly in the 25 years since it opened.
Weather had worn down pathways and cracked concrete pads, while previous droughts and bouts of disease led to the decay of original trees and natural landscaping in the area, the city Parks and Recreation Department said.
The dog park also lacked perimeter fencing.
In April 2024, the San Luis Obispo City Council authorized staff to advertise a construction contract for up to $1.13 million to restore the dog park, The Tribune reported at the time.
Construction on the revitalization plan started on Sept. 16, according to a project flier.
What do renovations look like?
The city’s only dog park was closed from September 2024 through May to complete upgrades and “create a more resilient, vibrant, inclusive and forward-thinking community,” in accordance with the city’s Parks and Recreation Blueprint for the Future.
The project’s objective was to transform the park into a more accessible off-lease space that all types of dogs could use.
“What makes this dog park so special is the importance of socialization for both our four-legged family members and the dog owners,” Avakian said.
Renovations at the dog park include two new sections — one for small dogs that weigh less than 25 pounds and another area for larger dogs above 25 pounds.
There are new play structures for pups, as well as additional seating areas and drinking fountains with dog bowls, the release said.
Now, fences run along the perimeter of the 3-acre property and separate the two areas for small and large dogs. Pathways have been renovated to be accessible in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The dog park also features upgraded turf areas, new trees, bark mulch and improved drainage for the long-term health of the area’s natural landscape, the Parks and Recreation Department said.
When is dog park’s grand reopening?
Laguna Lake Dog Park reopens to the public at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 30, the city’s Parks and Recreation Department said.
On that day, the city is hosting a grand reopening party at the revitalized park from 3 to 5 p.m.
While the celebration is underway, community members and their pets can explore updated amenities, participate in dog games and visit information booths, the news release said.
Are more dog parks coming to SLO?
“Dog parks are planned for Avila Ranch and the Righetti development,” according to the city’s Parks and Recreation Blueprint for the Future.
For now, Laguna Lake Dog Park is the city’s only dog park.
SLO residents’ next closest park for four-legged friends is El Chorro Dog Park, part of El Chorro Regional Park off Highway 1.
