Dog-Friendly Parks in DuPage & Kane Counties

Life in the western suburbs of Chicago isn’t just great for families—it’s also a paradise for our four-legged friends. DuPage and Kane Counties are filled with beautiful, dog-friendly parks and forest preserves where pups can run, play, and explore alongside their humans. Whether you’re looking for an off-leash dog park, a scenic trail, or a quiet spot for a weekend stroll, there are plenty of options nearby.

Here’s a roundup of some of the best dog-friendly parks in DuPage and Kane Counties.

Blackwell Forest Preserve (Warrenville, DuPage County)

Blackwell is a favorite for both people and pets. This large forest preserve has miles of trails where leashed dogs are welcome, as well as a designated off-leash area where pups can socialize and stretch their legs. The open fields and shady paths make it a great year-round destination.

Greene Valley Forest Preserve (Naperville, DuPage County)

Greene Valley offers more than 1,300 acres of scenic beauty, including 12 miles of trails that welcome leashed dogs. The real highlight for pet owners is the 16-acre off-leash dog area—one of the largest in the county. It’s a fantastic spot for active dogs that love to run.

Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve (Bartlett, DuPage County)

If you’re looking for a quieter spot, Hawk Hollow is a hidden gem. It has a 34-acre off-leash dog area with open fields and natural terrain, perfect for adventurous dogs. There’s also access to the West Branch DuPage River Trail for a scenic walk together.

Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve (Naperville, DuPage County)

Springbrook is ideal for dogs (and their humans) who love wide-open spaces. The preserve offers miles of crushed-limestone trails winding through prairie and wetlands. While dogs must stay leashed here, the views and wildlife make it a rewarding walk.

James “Pate” Philip State Park (Bartlett, DuPage County)

This lesser-known park is a wonderful place to walk your dog on-leash. With over 500 acres of restored prairie and savanna, it’s peaceful, spacious, and rarely crowded—perfect for dogs who prefer quieter outings.

Campton Forest Preserve (St. Charles, Kane County)

Located in Kane County, Campton Forest Preserve has wide, grassy trails and a designated off-leash dog park area. It’s a popular spot with local dog owners and offers plenty of space to play fetch or meet new canine friends.

Fabyan Forest Preserve (Geneva, Kane County)

Fabyan is a scenic spot along the Fox River with walking paths, gardens, and historic architecture. Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the preserve, making it a great destination for a leisurely stroll with beautiful views.

Les Arends Forest Preserve (Batavia, Kane County)

This riverside preserve is perfect for a relaxed dog walk. The paths here connect to the Fox River Trail, so you can extend your outing if you and your pup are up for a longer adventure. Shady trees and picnic spots make it a great warm-weather option.

Tips for Visiting Dog-Friendly Parks

• Bring water: Many parks don’t have fountains for dogs, so pack a collapsible bowl.

• Check permits: Some off-leash areas in DuPage require a forest preserve dog park permit.

• Mind the rules: Keep dogs leashed where required, and always clean up after them.

• Go early or late: Avoid peak midday heat in the summer and busy crowds on weekends.

DuPage and Kane Counties offer some of the best spots in Chicagoland for dog lovers. From wide-open prairies to riverside trails and dedicated off-leash parks, there’s no shortage of places to explore with your pup. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful nature walk or an energetic game of fetch, you’ll find the perfect spot to make tails wag.