Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area

i Not Verified

Hwy 101 Trinidad, California

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ i

FAQ

Dog-Park Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area – Trinidad, California: Your Guide to a Paw-some Experience

Located in the scenic Trinidad State Recreation Area, the dog park offers a fantastic space for your canine companion to run, play, and socialize. Here’s what you need to know for a successful and enjoyable visit.

General Information

The dog park is a fenced area designed for off-leash recreation. It's a popular spot, so expect crowds, especially during peak hours and weekends. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Entry & Fees
There is no entrance fee to use the dog park. However, you will need a current California State Parks day-use permit, which can be purchased online or at the Trinidad State Recreation Area entrance.

Dog Requirements
Dogs must be fully vaccinated and up-to-date on flea and tick prevention. Proof of vaccination may be requested. All dogs must be well-socialized and under the control of their owner at all times.

Rules & Regulations
Dogs must be kept on a leash when outside the designated off-leash area. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs. Waste bags are available for use. No aggressive behavior or excessive barking is tolerated. Children must be supervised at all times.

Off-Leash Area
The off-leash area is divided into two sections: a small dog area (20’ x 30’) for dogs under 25 pounds and a large dog area (40’ x 60’) for larger breeds. Dogs must remain within the designated area.

Water & Shade
There is no water source within the dog park. Please bring plenty of water for your dog, especially during warmer months. Shade is limited, so consider bringing a portable shade solution, such as a pop-up tent or umbrella.

Waste Management
Waste bags are available at the entrance. Please dispose of all dog waste properly in the designated receptacles. Failure to clean up after your dog will result in a park citation.

Safety & Etiquette
Be mindful of other dogs and their owners. Intervene if you see any unsafe interactions. Keep your dog under control and prevent excessive barking. Introduce your dog to new dogs slowly and calmly.

Parking
Parking is available in the main Trinidad State Recreation Area parking lot. However, it fills quickly, especially during busy times. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Contact Information
Trinidad State Recreation Area
101 Trinidad Street
Trinidad, CA 95484
(760) 655-7722
https://www.trinmtidstatepark.org/

https://www.trinmtidstatepark.org/

History

Dog-park Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area, located in Trinidad, California, began as a modest informal dog walking area within the larger Merlo State Recreation Area.

The area’s development as a dedicated dog park evolved organically over time, initially driven by local residents seeking a safe and designated space for their dogs to socialize and exercise.

Prior to its formalization, dogs were frequently walked on the trails and grassy areas of the state recreation area, leading to occasional concerns about visitor safety and management.

Recognizing this need, the Trinidad Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with local dog owner groups, began to implement improvements like fencing and designated areas.

The dog park was officially established in 2014, following a community survey that highlighted the significant interest in a dedicated dog park facility within the recreation area.

The initial design incorporated separate areas for small and large breeds, alongside waste disposal stations and water fountains.

Continued community input and fundraising efforts have supported ongoing maintenance and enhancements, solidifying Dog-park Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area as a valued resource for dog owners and their companions in Trinidad.

Categories

Last updated:

{'metatitle': None, 'metadesc': None, 'user_rating': 0.0, 'state': 'California', 'city': 'Trinidad', 'name': 'Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area', 'address': 'Hwy 101', 'latitude': 41.159547, 'longitude': -124.118774, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:42:39.655250+00:00', 'final_rating': 0.0, 'holiday_hours': {}, 'operating_hours': {}, 'additional_filters': {'FAQ': True, 'Grass': True, 'Water': True, 'Fenced': True, 'Shaded': True, 'History': True, 'Parking': True, 'Off Leash': True}, 'verified': False, 'phone': None, 'email': None, 'website': None, 'article': None, 'faq': '<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Dog-Park Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area – Trinidad, California: Your Guide to a Paw-some Experience</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Located in the scenic Trinidad State Recreation Area, the dog park offers a fantastic space for your canine companion to run, play, and socialize. Here’s what you need to know for a successful and enjoyable visit.</div>\n<div style="margin-top:1.2rem;margin-bottom:.8rem;text-align:center;font-weight:bold;font-size:1.2rem;">General Information</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">The dog park is a fenced area designed for off-leash recreation. It's a popular spot, so expect crowds, especially during peak hours and weekends. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Entry & Fees<br>There is no entrance fee to use the dog park. However, you will need a current California State Parks day-use permit, which can be purchased online or at the Trinidad State Recreation Area entrance.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Dog Requirements<br>Dogs must be fully vaccinated and up-to-date on flea and tick prevention. Proof of vaccination may be requested. All dogs must be well-socialized and under the control of their owner at all times.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Rules & Regulations<br>Dogs must be kept on a leash when outside the designated off-leash area. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs. Waste bags are available for use. No aggressive behavior or excessive barking is tolerated. Children must be supervised at all times.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Off-Leash Area<br>The off-leash area is divided into two sections: a small dog area (20’ x 30’) for dogs under 25 pounds and a large dog area (40’ x 60’) for larger breeds. Dogs must remain within the designated area.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Water & Shade<br>There is no water source within the dog park. Please bring plenty of water for your dog, especially during warmer months. Shade is limited, so consider bringing a portable shade solution, such as a pop-up tent or umbrella.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Waste Management<br>Waste bags are available at the entrance. Please dispose of all dog waste properly in the designated receptacles. Failure to clean up after your dog will result in a park citation.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Safety & Etiquette<br>Be mindful of other dogs and their owners. Intervene if you see any unsafe interactions. Keep your dog under control and prevent excessive barking. Introduce your dog to new dogs slowly and calmly.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Parking<br>Parking is available in the main Trinidad State Recreation Area parking lot. However, it fills quickly, especially during busy times. Arrive early to secure a spot.</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">Contact Information<br>Trinidad State Recreation Area<br>101 Trinidad Street<br>Trinidad, CA 95484<br>(760) 655-7722<br>https://www.trinmtidstatepark.org/</div>\n<div style="margin-bottom:1rem;">https://www.trinmtidstatepark.org/</div>', 'history': '<p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">Dog-park <strong>Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area</strong>, located in Trinidad, California, began as a modest informal dog walking area within the larger Merlo State Recreation Area.</p><p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">The area’s development as a dedicated dog park evolved organically over time, initially driven by local residents seeking a safe and designated space for their dogs to socialize and exercise.</p><p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">Prior to its formalization, dogs were frequently walked on the trails and grassy areas of the state recreation area, leading to occasional concerns about visitor safety and management.</p><p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">Recognizing this need, the Trinidad Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with local dog owner groups, began to implement improvements like fencing and designated areas.</p><p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">The dog park was officially established <strong>in 2014</strong>, following a community survey that highlighted the significant interest in a dedicated dog park facility within the recreation area.</p><p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">The initial design incorporated separate areas for small and large breeds, alongside waste disposal stations and water fountains.</p><p style="margin-bottom:1rem;text-align:justify;">Continued community input and fundraising efforts have supported ongoing maintenance and enhancements, solidifying Dog-park <strong>Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area</strong> as a valued resource for dog owners and their companions in Trinidad.</p>', 'disclaimer': None, 'categories': ['Fenced', 'Water', 'Shaded', 'Off Leash', 'Parking'], 'admission': None, 'date_available': None, 'attendance_amount': None, 'exhibitor_amount': None, 'delivery_services': [], 'social_media': {}, 'stocked_brands': [], 'inventory_categories': {}, 'customer_reviews': [], 'metadescription': None, 'slug': 'harry-a-merlo-state-recreation-area', 'distance': 1420.3, 'main_image': None, 'additional_images': [], 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'open_now': 'unknown'}

Comments

Link to this page

More Dog Parks Near Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area

[{'name': 'Six Rivers National Forest', 'address': 'Hwy 96', 'city': 'Orleans', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'orleans', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.300902, 'longitude': -123.541793, 'distance': 1390.5, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:39:33.784512+00:00', 'slug': 'six-rivers-national-forest', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': None, 'img_alt': None, 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'false'}, {'name': 'Redwood National Park', 'address': '1440 Us Highway 199', 'city': 'Orick', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'orick', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.213179, 'longitude': -124.004628, 'distance': 1414.4, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:42:38.015155+00:00', 'slug': 'redwood-national-park', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': 'https://www.nearestdoor.com/get-image/10306/', 'img_alt': 'Redwood National Park in Orick, California', 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {'FAQ': True, 'Water': True, 'Article': True, 'Off Leash': True}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park', 'address': 'Newton B Drury Scenic Pkwy', 'city': 'Orick', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'orick', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.403428, 'longitude': -124.029889, 'distance': 1416.0, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:42:35.986363+00:00', 'slug': 'prairie-creek-redwoods-state-park', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': None, 'img_alt': None, 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'false'}, {'name': 'Arcata Community Forest', 'address': '11Th And 14Th Streets', 'city': 'Arcata', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'arcata', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 40.874843, 'longitude': -124.050429, 'distance': 1416.5, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:12:47.309699+00:00', 'slug': 'arcata-community-forest', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': None, 'img_alt': None, 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Gold Bluffs Beach (At Prairie Creek State Park)', 'address': 'Hwy 101', 'city': 'Orick', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'orick', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.383569, 'longitude': -124.069537, 'distance': 1418.0, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:42:36.883423+00:00', 'slug': 'gold-bluffs-beach-at-prairie-creek-state-park', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': None, 'img_alt': None, 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {'FAQ': True, 'Water': True, 'Fenced': True, 'Article': True, 'Parking': True, 'Website': True, 'Off Leash': True}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Freshwater Lagoon Beach', 'address': 'Hwy 101 South End Of Redwood National Park', 'city': 'Trinidad', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'trinidad', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.225021, 'longitude': -124.098103, 'distance': 1419.3, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:42:38.837110+00:00', 'slug': 'freshwater-lagoon-beach', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': None, 'img_alt': None, 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Moonstone Beach Off Leash Dog Area', 'address': 'Moonstone Beach Rd.', 'city': 'Moonstone', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'moonstone', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.028873, 'longitude': -124.110369, 'distance': 1419.7, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:32:27.699621+00:00', 'slug': 'moonstone-beach-off-leash-dog-area', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': 'https://www.nearestdoor.com/get-image/10051/', 'img_alt': 'Moonstone Beach Off Leash Dog Area in Moonstone, California', 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Clam Beach Off Leash Area', 'address': 'Clam Beach Dr.', 'city': 'Mckinleyville', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'mckinleyville', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 40.997845, 'longitude': -124.115005, 'distance': 1420.0, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:32:26.771987+00:00', 'slug': 'clam-beach-off-leash-area', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': 'https://www.nearestdoor.com/get-image/10050/', 'img_alt': 'Clam Beach Off Leash Area in Mckinleyville, California', 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Hiller Park Off Leash Area', 'address': '795 Hiller Road', 'city': 'Mckinleyville', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'mckinleyville', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 40.943778, 'longitude': -124.118916, 'distance': 1420.1, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:12:48.234492+00:00', 'slug': 'hiller-park-off-leash-area', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': 'https://www.nearestdoor.com/get-image/9356/', 'img_alt': 'Hiller Park Off Leash Area in Mckinleyville, California', 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {'Benches': True}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}, {'name': 'Luffenholtz Beach Off Leash Dog Area', 'address': 'Scenic Dr. And Luffenholtz Ln', 'city': 'Trinidad', 'state': 'California', 'cityslug': 'trinidad', 'stateslug': 'california', 'latitude': 41.040267, 'longitude': -124.120333, 'distance': 1420.3, 'shop_type': 'dog-park', 'last_updated': '2025-04-20T04:32:28.515588+00:00', 'slug': 'luffenholtz-beach-off-leash-dog-area', 'rating': 0.0, 'main_image': 'https://www.nearestdoor.com/get-image/10052/', 'img_alt': 'Luffenholtz Beach Off Leash Dog Area in Trinidad, California', 'shop_type_unslug': 'dog park', 'additonal_filters': {}, 'open_now': 'unknown'}], 41.159547, -124.118774

Dog Park Community News & Tips

Golden retriever bounding through sun-lit meadow grass with Berkshire hills in the distance., dog-park

Williamstown Approves 18-Acre Off-Leash Dog Park at Spruces Park

A fence-free, 18-acre meadow for running dogs is coming to Spruces Park—get the rules, map, and August 2025 opening timeline.

Golden retriever wearing a tick-prevention collar on a forest trail., dog-park

2025 Pet Parasite Forecast: Rising Tick and Heartworm Threats

CAPC’s 2025 forecast shows Lyme, heartworm, and other parasitic diseases spreading into new regions. Here’s what dog owners need to know.

Panting French Bulldog lying in shade next to a thermometer reading 90°F., dog-park

Heatstroke Warning 2025: How Hot Is Too Hot for Your Dog?

With temps climbing, learn the safe walking temperature for dogs, early signs of heatstroke, and lifesaving cool-down tips.

Blue Ridge Beef raw Puppy Mix chub with red RECALL stamp and warning sign., dog-park

April 2025 Dog Food Recall: Salmonella & Listeria in Blue Ridge Beef Puppy Mix

Check your freezer now—see the lot number, symptoms, and next steps after the latest dog food recall.

Corgi looking out from airline-approved carrier at airport gate., dog-park

Flying With Dogs 2025: New Airline Pet Policy Changes Explained

See carrier size limits, breed restrictions, and money-saving tips before taking off with your pup this year.

Concerned golden retriever wearing a veterinary oxygen mask during Georgia’s mystery canine respiratory outbreak., dog-park

Mystery Dog Respiratory Illness Spreads in Georgia: Symptoms, Prevention, and What to Do Now

Vets across Georgia are seeing a surge in an unknown cough that resists standard antibiotics—learn the signs and how to protect your pup today.

Dog owner offering a Simparica Trio chewable tablet to a happy Labrador in a bright kitchen., dog-park

Simparica Trio 2025 Update: Now Prevents Flea Tapeworms

FDA expands Simparica Trio’s label—learn why this new tapeworm protection matters and how to switch safely.

Entrance sign for Lake Padden Park East Entrance surrounded by trees and greenery, listing activities such as golf, softball, boat launch, horseshoes, picnicking, and hiking., dog-park

Lake Padden Park: A Pup’s Paradise

Lake Padden Park is a beautiful, expansive area perfect for dogs and their humans — offering scenic trails, wide-open play areas, and a welcoming community vibe.

Beagle drinking water from a bowl on a sunny day., dog-park

Diseases of the Adrenal Glands in Dogs

From Cushing’s to Addison’s, understanding adrenal gland disorders is key to helping your dog live a long, healthy life. Here’s what every pet owner should know.

Harry A. Merlo State Recreation Area

Hwy 101 Trinidad, California