Best Dog Parks in Bowie & Upper Marlboro, MD: Locations, Amenities, and Breed Policies
Bowie, MD
1. City of Bowie Dog Park
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Location: 3600 Northview Drive, Bowie, MD 20716, adjacent to Northview Elementary and across from Enfield Drive.
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Amenities:
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1-acre total area with two separate, fully fenced sections: one for general play, one specifically for small, shy dogs or puppies older than 4 months.
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Free parking available.
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Park is monitored by both City Animal Control Officers and Park Rangers.
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Open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk (except city-observed holidays).
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Pets must wear a current rabies tag and, for Bowie residents, a Prince George’s County pet license.
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Breed Allowance: No breed restrictions mentioned officially. Generally, all well-behaved dogs are welcome provided they meet licensing requirements.
Upper Marlboro, MD
2. Watkins Regional Park
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Location: 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD (a large 794-acre regional park).
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Amenities:
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Spacious off-leash area—or at least dog-friendly trails and open spaces (some sources mention off-leash play, though officially it’s a leashed-dog environment).
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Shaded areas, ample seating, and scenic trails for you and your pup.
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Free parking and no entry fee are highlighted—though Watkins Park may have standard regional park fees in other contexts. Bring your water; but some amenities like poop bags or toys may be provided.
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Leash/Breed Policy: Dogs are generally required to be leashed throughout the park. No breed restrictions noted.
3. Montpellier Farms Family Farm Park & Rosaryville State Park
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Montpellier Farms Family Farm Park: A fun, event-based pet-friendly farm park accepting leashed dogs, especially during festivals like the Sunflower or Fall Festival.
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Rosaryville State Park: A large 982-acre state park where leashed dogs are allowed on trails (all except the historic Mount Airy Mansion are pet-friendly). Standard state park fees apply.
Breed Allowances
None of these parks specify breed restrictions. Public parks typically allow all breeds unless stated otherwise (e.g., some private parks may prohibit certain breeds). The places listed appear open to all well-behaved dogs.
Recommendations
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Best for off-leash play in Bowie: City of Bowie Dog Park—secure, separated areas and official oversight make it ideal.
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Best for a scenic outing with mixed activities in Upper Marlboro: Watkins Regional Park offers trails, open spaces, and plenty of scenery—though bringing water and waste bags is a good idea.
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For special events and experiences: Montpellier Farms and Rosaryville State Park are wonderful with your pup, though leashes are required.
Let me know if you'd like details on private dog-park rentals in Upper Marlboro (like Sniffspot), or other leash-free options nearby!
Kelly J Vaughn
Your Trusted Realtor For Maryland & Virginia
Samson Properties
240-355-9529 cell
240-493-8098 office
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