By Emily Harrington
Keep going, keep going, keep going. That’s how you are going to feel when you head west on Windsor Road to get to the Champaign Bark District, simply known as the Champaign Dog Park. Here you can clink the leash free and let your canine friends run unrestricted. This open area will become your dog’s best friend. Sorry man.
Located on seven acres near the southeast corner of Windsor and Rising Roads, this park features a four-foot-fence, double-gated entry area and two separate areas for large and small dogs. The small dog area is for dogs 25 pounds and lighter while the larger area is for dogs of all sizes.
Owners can watch their dogs frolic from one of the many available benches. However, these benches become a place for dogs to also seek shade as there are not many trees to provide respite on hot days.
The dog park is a membership-based program. Although, you can check out the dog park for a day before making the membership commitment. At the entrance to the park there is a box with waivers and release forms. Complete and place the forms along with $5 in the envelope provided. Completed forms and fee can go in the box.
Annual dues:
- One Dog (Resident): $38
- One Dog (Non-resident): $57
- Each Additional Dog: $6
The Champaign and Urbana Dog Parks have reciprocal agreements. If you have a membership at either park you can use the other facility for no additional charge. One of the best perks of membership—free poop bags for all—which means you have to pick up the poop!
The dog park is a great way to get your dog(s) some exercise and get yourself (and family) some fresh air. But, because the park caters to sometimes unpredictable animals, the park district has guidelines to follow. Not all dogs are good dog park candidates. Your dog needs to be able to get along with a wide variety of dogs and be controlled while not on a leash. Most importantly, children must be at least six-years-old and accompanied by a parent or guardian to enter the park.
For a complete list of rules and comprehensive membership information, visit the park’s page on the Champaign Park District website.
There is ample parking, two dog/human water fountains and a portable potty for dog owners. The water fountains are up and running at this time. If your kids are of age to visit the dog park, make a day of it! First, visit the Chambana Park to Know: Porter Park situated across from the dog park. Then move across the street to treat your furry friend(s).
Emily Harrington is a Chambana townie that left her 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. job to be a 24/7 mom to a dreamy boy. Still interested in writing, Emily uses some of naptime to practice her passion and keep her mind right. Emily is a happy wife with a happy life because she fell for a fellow townie. Oh, and let’s not forget her other son, a degenerate canine named Heppenheimer.