Photo credit: @louie_thesheepadoo

While your dog probably sticks close to you all year around, there’s nothing quite like being in the warm outdoors with your happy canine. After being cooped up together for the cold months, it probably feels like the right time to stretch your legs together and have some fun! 

So where in the Berks County area can you both be out together for an exciting adventure or just to cool off? Read on below to learn more about the relaxing and engaging places to bring your dog for fun in the sun and the shade.

Blue Marsh Lake

Photo credit: @aquaompaddle

Located in Reading, the Blue Marsh Lake Recreation Area is a perfect place to bring your canine friend for an outdoors adventure. While the area allows pets, they must stay on a leash in mowed locations and are not allowed to frolic where humans are allowed to swim. The great news is that Blue Marsh Lake does have an “unofficial Dog Beach” so your dog can easily cool off and meet other owners and dogs. The best way to find and access the dog-safe swim area is to park at the Spilling Basin and hike the main multi-use trail to the Dog Beach. 

Pet owners are reminded to be courteous to other hikers too. If someone asks you to leash your dog, please do so. While it is safe to swim, Blue Marsh advises visitors to do so at their own risk. For instance, if your dog is exposed to blue algae when swimming at the lake, be sure to rinse him/her with clean water right when you get home.  

Fightin’ Phils “Bark in the Park”

Photo credit: @fightins

Bring the energy and your dog for the Fightin’ Phils “Bark in the Park” summer series in Reading, PA! There will be six Sunday nights at America’s Classic ballpark where fans can bring their dogs along with them to enjoy the game. The Fightin’ Phils have collaborated with Humane Pennsylvania to host dog-friendly games on select dates through August 2022 including this coming Sunday, May 29, 2022.

Dog tickets are available for just $5 at these select games in addition to the paying humans. Pups get their own seat so they have just as great of a view as you do! Humane Pennsylvania and Pet Supplies Plus will have information tables set up in the Tompkins Bank Plaza at all Bark in the Park games.You and your dog(s) can enjoy America’s favorite pastime while participating in a good cause. 

Dog Parks

Photo credit: @rdgmuseum

Sometimes, a dog just needs to hang with other dogs. Thankfully, Berks County offers two free dog parks, perfect for your dog to romp, run, sniff, roll and make new four-legged friends. The Danielle Ruiz-Murphy Center for Animal Welfare is a community dog park and multi-acre equine rescue center in Birdsboro. It’s is open seven days a week during daylight hours and is free to the public. The park limits visitors to 3 dogs per handler and they must wear collars with license, rabies tags and rescue information. Owners must remain with their dogs within fenced areas at all times.

Jim Dietrich Park in Muhlenberg is another great spot for you and your dog. You’ll enjoy walking in the scenic spot and along its dog-friendly trail.The Dog Park consists of  three lots, one for small dogs, one for big dogs, and one to rotate so the grass stays clean and green. The park provides doggie waste bags and disposal, and picnic tables. You’ll find it’s a place both you and your pup will enjoy.

Reading Public Museum

The Reading Public Museum’s Arboretum offers many acres of natural beauty for both you and your pet to enjoy on summertime walks. As you and your dog stroll along the Wyomissing Creek, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about nature using their free, self-guided tour maps and your dog will have the chance to take in new smells. Visit between sunrise and sunset and stay cool under the shade of the trees that line the trail.

While the Reading Public Museum’s Arboretum is open to walk year-round, the museum is also hosting a Dogs & Brews event on Sunday, May 29, 2022 from 12-4PM. Dog lovers can purchase tickets to attend with their pets and visit vendors, taste craft beverages, eat from food trucks, and shop for pet items.

With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to ensure both you and your canine experience the best of Berks County. Whether you’re searching for outdoor adventure or relaxing inside, your and your dog have plenty of exciting places to go. Be sure to stay up-to-date on the newest dog-friendly activities around Berks County via our events page, or contact us today!