After a year and a half of quarantine, humans are not the only ones pawing at the chance for a summer to remember. Our dogs have kept us sane and loved through these stressful months, and it’s only right to treat them to some fun in the sun in the Pennsylvania Americana Region! There are several dog-friendly activities in Berks County this summer that your furry friends will be begging to be part of. Join us during Berks County’s dog days of summer for unleashed summer fun!
Blue Marsh Lake Dog Beach
Blue Marsh Lake Recreation Area welcomes your canine friends. Pets must be on a leash in mowed areas and can not frolic where humans swim. However, the recreation area does have an “unofficial Dog Beach” that is the perfect spot for your pup to cool off. The easiest way to access the swim area for pups is to park at the Spilling Basin and hike the main multi-use trail to the Dog Beach. While on the trail, dogs can be off their leash but only if they listen immediately to your voice command. Pet owners are reminded to be courtesy to other hikers too. If someone asks you leash your dog, please do so. Blue Marsh advises visitors to swim at their own risk. If your dog is exposed to blue algae when swimming at the lake, rinse him/her with clean water as soon as you return home.
Fightin’ Phils “Bark in the Park”
Grab your mitts and bring your dogs down to FirstEnergy Stadium for the Fightin’ Phils “Bark in the Park” summer series! The Fightin’ Phils have teamed up with Humane Pennsylvania to host dog-friendly games on select dates through September 2021. You and your pups are invited to enjoy America’s favorite pastime while participating in a good cause. Keep all eyes, ears, and noses out for the Humane Pennsylvania information table to learn how you can give back to Berks County’s pet population. Dog tickets are $5 in addition to individual tickets, and can be purchased online or the Weidnhammer Ticket Office at FirstEnergy Stadium.
Nolde Forest Trails
For active pups and owners alike, head on down to the Nolde Forest. This 726 acre woodland provides a day-full of dog-friendly activity in Berks County. 10 miles of trails ranging from footpaths to old gravel roads wind through the wooded area. Several trails give plenty of space for your four-legged friends to stretch their legs. Shorter trails like the Kohout Trail (0.3 miles) and Middle Road (0.6 miles) can be utilized for quicker walks, while longer trails like Watershed Trail (1.1 miles) and Boulevard Trail (2.3 miles) are favorites for those who enjoy a longer stroll. Friendly and well-behaved dogs are welcome on every trail! Noodle Forest practices “Leave No Trace” policies, so be prepared to pick up after your furry friends and leave the forest better than you found it!
Dog Parks
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.
Arboretum at Reading Public Museum
Treat your dog to an amazing sensory experience at Reading Public Museum’s Arboretum. The museum is home to 25 acres of flourishing natural beauty. The plant life and scenery are to die for. Your pooch has ample opportunity to gather new smells while you marvel at 65 distinct specimens. This summer, you and your dog can keep cool under large trees planted throughout the arboretum while learning about nature in Berks County and all of its wonder. Take a relaxing stroll with Fido along the Wyomissing Creek, and be sure to pick up after yourself and your four-legged friend! From sunrise to sunset, the Arboretum at Reading Public Museum wants to welcome you and your dog to walk through Pennsylvania’s finest.
WK&S Railroad
All aboard! Leash up your dogs and join the fun this summer at the WK&S Railroad! This dog-friendly activity is the best ride your pet will find in Berks County. Once part of the Schuylkill & Lehigh branch of the Reading Company system, this small tourist railroad takes passengers through scenic trails with breathtaking views of Ontelaunee Creek. Expect to see beautiful farmland and lush forests during this 40-minute train ride. Friendly dogs are welcome to board this unique attraction on leash. Come and experience the beauty of Berks County with man’s best friend right by your side!
There’s always something for you and your pet in Berks County this summer! Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun or keeping cool indoors, the dogs of Pennsylvania’s Americana Region have somewhere to go. Stay up-to-date on the latest dog-friendly activities in Berks County at our events page, or contact us today!