When temperatures drop, hardy Midwesterners still find ways to spend time outdoors – especially those with four-legged family members.
The St. Charles Park District maintains three dog parks that both humans and their dogs can enjoy for exercise all year round.
“Dog park play is great for owners and dogs. Both get fresh air, a bit of exercise and an opportunity to meet new friends,” says Erika Young, PR and marketing manager at the St. Charles Park District. “As the seasons change and the temps drop, keeping active should still be part of your regular routine. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.”
The 2.5-acre dog park at James O. Breen Community Park, off Campton Hills Road and Peck Road, was built in 2007 as the first dog park maintained by the Park District. In 2008, the East Side Sports Complex, at 3565 Legacy Blvd., dedicated three-fourths of an acre for a second dog park. In 2015, the Park District added three-fourths of an acre at River Bend Community Park, 6N517 Geneva Ave., for a third dog park.
All three parks include a double-gated security entrance, a separate entrance for smaller dogs, and a fenced-in area for dogs to play.
The park at James O. Breen has agility equipment including a doggie crawl tunnel, hoop jump, weave posts and dog walk, while the park at East Side Sports Complex has a doggie crawl tunnel and king of the hill walk and jump-over. The park at East Side Sports Complex is the only one with access to a pond.
Dogs can play unleashed at all three parks. However, owners who wish to keep their pets leashed can also take advantage of the 20 miles of trails the Park District maintains. The fresh air and beautiful scenery of the Fox River, forest preserves and wetlands are a treat for everyone to enjoy 365 days a year, Young says. ❚
For more information on dog parks and trails, visit stcparks.org.