Dunn Pond State Park

i Not Verified

289 Pearl St. Gardner, Massachusetts

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ i

FAQ

Dunn Pond State Park Dog Park: A Local Favorite
Dunn Pond State Park in Gardner, Massachusetts, offers a fantastic recreational experience for people and their furry friends. Located in zip code 01440 at 289 Pearl St., this park boasts year-round access to public restrooms, changing rooms, and snack areas. For dog owners, Dunn Pond State Park provides a diverse range of activities and features, making it a popular destination.
Dog Park Details
While Dunn Pond State Park doesn’t have a designated, fenced-in dog park, it offers ample space for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in designated areas. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, with owners responsible for maintaining control and cleaning up after their pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Park Information
**What is Dunn Pond State Park?
** Dunn Pond State Park is a public recreation area offering a wide variety of outdoor activities including swimming, boating, hiking, and picnicking.
**Where is Dunn Pond State Park located?
** The park is situated in Gardner, Massachusetts, with the zip code 01440 and address 289 Pearl St.
**What are the park’s operating hours?
** Dunn Pond State Park is open year-round.
**Is there parking available?
** Yes, ample parking is available on-site.
**Is there an entrance fee?
** No, there is no entrance fee to Dunn Pond State Park.
Dog-Related Questions
**Can I bring my dog to the park?
** Yes, dogs are welcome throughout the park, but owners are responsible for their pet’s behavior and cleanup.
**Are there designated areas for dogs?
** While there isn’t a fenced dog park, dogs can exercise off-leash in many areas of the park, particularly near the swimming area and picnic areas.
**Are dogs allowed in the swimming area?
** Dogs are permitted in the publicly guarded swimming area during the summer months.
**What should I bring for my dog?
** Bring water, waste bags, and any necessary supplies for your dog’s comfort and safety.
**Are there any restrictions on dog breeds?
** There are no breed-specific restrictions at Dunn Pond State Park.
Amenities & Activities
**What activities are available at the park?
** The park offers swimming, boating (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding), fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, picnicking, and running/walking along the bike trail.
**Are there playgrounds for children?
** Yes, there are two playgrounds located near the swimming area.
**Is there a campfire or fireplace?
** Yes, there’s a Log Lodge with a fireplace and couches.
**What is the Totem Pole?
** The Totem Pole was created in the 1980s by Ralph Fleurant and was formerly located near the park entrance.
**Is the fish stocked?
** Yes, the pond is stocked with fish annually.
**Is the park accessible?
** The park is wheelchair accessible via Betty Spring Road, accessible for handicapped personnel.

About

Dunn Pond State Park: A Premier Dog-Friendly Destination in Gardner, Massachusetts Dunn Pond State Park in Gardner, Massachusetts offers a fantastic recreational experience for the whole family, including your furry friends.

Located in zip code 01440 at 289 Pearl St., this expansive park provides year-round access to public restrooms, changing rooms, and snack areas.

For dog owners, Dunn Pond State Park is a top destination.

The park boasts a dedicated area where dogs can enjoy off-leash playtime.

The swimming area is publicly guarded during the summer months with lifeguards on duty, offering a refreshing spot for both humans and canines.

Beyond the dog park, Dunn Pond State Park is packed with activities.

Enjoy swimming, picnicking, boating (canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding – personal rentals available), fishing, hiking, cross-country skiing, and running & walking along the bike trail frequently used by Gardner High School runners in the fall.

The park features two playgrounds near the swimming area, a log lodge with a fireplace and couches for relaxation, and a totem pole created in the 1980s by Ralph Fleurant (formerly located towards the entrance).

The park is wheelchair accessible and accessible via Betty Spring Road for handicapped personnel.

Fish are stocked annually, adding to the diverse recreational opportunities.

Categories

Dog Park Fenced Water Off Leash Parking

Last updated:

Comments

Link to this page

More Dog Parks Near Dunn Pond State Park

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.