Harford Park

This is a large field where dogs are allowed off-leash, so if you're expecting fenced areas and "big dog" / "small dog" sections, doggy playground equipment, look elsewhere. There is a small creek at the bottom, and lots of room for dogs to run and play. The first two times I went here, there was a not-so-nice dog going after most of the other dogs and both times were on a Saturday. I have since been here dozens of times and met nothing but nice dogs (and people). There is a doggy fountain turned on in-season. My only wish for this place is if there were just a fence creating a boundary for dogs (and their owners) between the parking lot and the field, it would be safer for everyone. When a new dog shows up, all the dogs just go into the parking lot to see who is here now. But, the parking lot is shared with the community center, so not everyone showing up is going to the park and might not be "dog-aware" so I am very worried a dog will get hit by a car. I also had a dog run up and try to jump in my car, he was so eager to greet my dog, but it made for a chaotic arrival for us. I think if there were just a straight line of fence, it would create a visual and physical cue for when dogs are "off leash" and free to roam. Speaking of roaming, be aware that there is poison ivy growing pretty much EVERYWHERE in the brush on the edges of the field and down by the stream. If you are someone who is sensitive to urushiol (meaning, if you are one of the world's majority who get a rash from poison ivy), give Fido a bath after you leave because if the dog picks up the oil from contact with it and you come in contact with the dog...you just came in contact with the poison ivy plant!