5 Great Off-Leash Dog Parks in the Twin Cities and Rochester

Your adorable pooch needs physical and social activity just like you do. A trip to an off-leash dog park fills the bill all the way around. We've found some of the best facilities in the Twin Cities area for you. Find your favorite spot or try them all for some variety.

1. Meeker Island Dog Park
471 Mississippi River Boulevard N.
St. Paul 55104

Get two facilities in one at this park alongside Meeker Island Historic Lock and Dam site. It features a hiking trail and dog run along with a dog beach on the banks of the Mississippi River. The park is not fenced in but it's bordered on the other side by steep river bluffs.

2. Franklin Terrace Off-Leash Recreation Area
925 Franklin Terrace
Minneapolis 55406

You may forget you're in the heart of the city as you stroll through this park with a mixture of wooded areas and open spaces. The park is fenced in and waste bags and dispensers are available. Hours are 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. and use of the park requires a permit for $5 a day or $35 per year ($60 for non-residents).

3. Jean & Carl Frank Canine Park
1839 Pinewood Road SE
Rochester 55904

This facility is operated by the Rochester Parks & Recreation Department. There are benches where you can relax as your dog runs across the grassy fields and plays atop the various structures located on the grounds.

4. Battle Creek Regional Dog Park
2300 Upper Afton Road
Maplewood 55119

This generous 25-acre fully fenced-in park between Maplewood and St. Paul is a past winner of CityPage's award for Best Minneapolis Dog Park. The grounds contain both prairie and wooded sections with walking trails and play areas. There is also a community gathering area and access to a natural swamp.

5. Lake of the Isles Dog Park
2845 W. Lake of the Isles Parkway
Minneapolis 55405

This park comprises 3.6 acres on the south end of Lake of the Isles. It's fully fenced-in and has separate areas for small and large dogs. The lake scenery, smaller size and shaded benches make this a perfect socializing spot for both dogs and their humans. The same permit for Franklin Terrace allows access to Lake of the Isles.

Do you and your dog have a favorite play area? Tell us about it in the comments!