Manistee Dog Park (At First Street Beach)

i Not Verified

First St. (Douglas Park) Manistee, Michigan

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ i
Manistee Dog Park (At First Street Beach) in Manistee, Michigan - Main Image

FAQ

Manistee Dog Park: A Natural Escape for Paw-some Adventures
The Manistee Dog Park, located at First Street Beach in Douglas Park, offers a unique outdoor experience for dog owners and their furry companions. Situated within the Huron National Forest, this dog park provides access to scenic trails and a thriving natural environment.
Key Features:
• **Location:** First Street Beach, Douglas Park, Manistee, Michigan
• **Trail System:** Four separate loops totaling 4.8 miles of walking paths.
• **Natural Setting:** Part of the Huron National Forest, adjacent to the Au Sable River and featuring diverse woodlands.
• **Wildlife Viewing:** Opportunities to spot deer, rabbit, muskrat, otter, mink, fox, squirrel, chipmonk, skunk, and turtle.
Frequently Asked Questions:
General Information:
**What is the Manistee Dog Park?
** It’s a free, non-motorized dog park offering walking trails within the Huron National Forest.
**Where is it located?
** First Street Beach, Douglas Park, Manistee, Michigan.
**Is there an entrance fee?
** No, the Manistee Dog Park is free to use.
**What are the operating hours?
** Operating hours are not explicitly stated. Check local park hours for updates.
Trail and Dog Regulations:
**What type of trails are available?
** There are four separate trails totaling 4.8 miles.
**Are dogs required to be on a leash?
** Leashes are required at all times within the dog park.
**Are there separate areas for large and small dogs?
** No, the park is open to all dog sizes.
**What should I bring for my dog?
** Bring water, poop bags, and any necessary supplies.
**Can I bring live bait?
** No, catch and release fishing only (fly fishing, no live bait).
Surrounding Area & Activities:
**What other attractions are nearby?
** The Michigan AuSable Valley Railroad operates in Fairview, a 1/4 scale, 16-inch gauge ridable miniature railway.
**Is there a canoe marathon?
** The Au Sable River Canoe Marathon starts in Grayling and ends in Oscoda (120 miles/190 km), held on the last Saturday in July.
**What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
** The area supports a diverse ecosystem including deer, rabbit, muskrat, otter, mink, fox, squirrel, chipmonk, skunk, and turtle.

About

Manistee Dog Park: A Natural Oasis for Dog Lovers The Manistee Dog Park, located at First Street Beach in Manistee, Michigan, offers a unique and scenic setting for your canine companion to explore and play.

Part of Douglas Park and the Huron National Forest, this free dog park provides over 4.8 miles of trails for dogs to enjoy.

Explore the Huron National Forest This dog park is more than just a fenced area; it’s a gateway to the vast Huron National Forest.

Dogs can traverse loops ranging from 1.8 to 4.2 miles, immersing themselves in the beauty of the forest.

Scenic Trail Features The trails wind through diverse landscapes, including 3 miles alongside the Au Sable River.

The park connects Burtons Landing to Wakeley Bridge, offering a varied and engaging experience.

Diverse Ecosystem The Manistee Dog Park is surrounded by a rich ecosystem supporting dozens of bird and wildlife species.

Keep an eye out for deer, rabbits, muskrats, otters, mink, foxes, squirrels, chipmunks, skunks, and turtles.

Nearby Attractions Beyond the dog park, you’re just a short distance from the Michigan AuSable Valley Railroad in Fairview, a 1/4 scale miniature railway.

And for those interested in outdoor events, the Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, a key race in the “Triple Crown” of canoe marathons, takes place annually.

Important Regulations Please note that fishing is permitted only with catch and release practices, using fly fishing techniques and without live bait.

Categories

Fenced Water

Last updated:

Comments

Link to this page

More Dog Parks Near Manistee Dog Park (At First Street Beach)

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.