Powell River Dog Park:
Powell River Dog Park is the only officially designated off-leash dog area in Powell River, British Columbia, giving local pet owners a legal, fenced space to let their dogs run free without a leash. The park is located just off Duncan Street, with the entrance situated next to the Mother Nature store — an easy landmark to look for if you’re visiting for the first time.
The off-leash area is fully fenced and split into two separate enclosures, giving dogs room to exercise and socialize while keeping the space secure. It also allows smaller dogs to play in their own space away from larger dogs. A double-gated entry system helps prevent dogs from slipping out while owners are coming and going, which is especially useful during busier times of day when several dogs and their owners are entering or leaving at once.
On-site amenities include a dispenser stocked with waste bags and a trash bin, so most visits don’t require bringing your own supplies. A water fountain is also available on-site, making it easy for owners and dogs to stay hydrated during visits. We do recommend bringing your own water dish in case there isn’t one in the park. We like to use a soft collapsible bowl as it is easy to pack up and carry. Posted signage reminds owners of the rules: dogs must remain under voice control at all times, and owners are required to carry a leash with them even inside the off-leash park, in case it’s needed.
Because this is Powell River’s only sanctioned off-leash space, it tends to be the default stop for dog owners throughout the city, from Westview to Townsite, making it a good first destination if you’re new to town or just passing through with your dog.
Other Areas
Outside of the designated off-leash park, dogs throughout Powell River are required to be on-leash in all other public spaces, including sidewalks, trails, and neighbourhood parks. Owners are expected to stay in control of their dogs and clean up immediately.
Two popular waterfront spots have seasonal restrictions worth knowing before you go: Willingdon Beach Park and Mowat Bay Park prohibit dogs entirely from May 1 to September 15 each year. Outside that window, dogs are welcome but must stay on-leash. Note that the Willingdon Beach Walkway and floating dock area bans dogs year-round, regardless of season.
If you’re planning a longer visit to Powell River with your dog, it’s worth pairing a stop at the off-leash park with an on-leash walk somewhere scenic once the summer restrictions lift.
Traveling to Powell River?
If you are coming from out of town, you should check out our post on Traveling With Your Dog on BC Ferries for some helpful information on the ferries dog policies as well as information about the dog spaces on the BC Ferries vessels.
You may also want to check out some of the other off-leash dog-parks on the Sunshine Coast while you are on your way!
Have you been to the Powell River Dog Park?
We have not yet had an opportunity to visit this dog-park ourselves (although it is on our list to go!) So the photo for this park is a stock dog-park photo and not an accurate representation of the park. If you have been to the park and would like to share your own pictures with us, we would love to publish them on this listing!
We would also love to hear your feedback and reviews on this park.
Also take a few minutes to read our article on Dog Park Etiquette
References:
City of Powell River – Animal Control
City of Powell River – Consolidated Animal Control Bylaw No. 1979, 2003
