Brookdale Dog Park Lands On List Of ‘Hidden Gems’ In USA

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — A location in Montclair and Bloomfield landed on a new list of the “hidden dog park gems” in the United States.

America's landscape is dotted with well-celebrated dog parks, yet beyond these well-trodden paths lie hidden gems in urban spaces, often only known to locals. Based on a survey of 3,000 dog owners across the country, Technobark.com unleashed a ranking of the top 120 “Hidden Gem Dog Parks.”

The dog park at Brookdale Park in Essex County ranked at number 76 on the list. Brookdale Park, which is run by the county, is located in Montclair and Bloomfield.

Two other New Jersey dog parks landed on the list from Technobark.com: Colonial Park Dog Park in Somerset (65th), and Thompson Park Off-Leash Dog Area in Jamesburg (66th).

Here’s what researchers had to say about the dog park at Brookdale:

“Brookdale Dog Park offers a spacious off-leash area for dogs to play and socialize. The park features separate sections for small and large dogs, as well as grassy fields, shade trees, and walking trails. Brookdale Dog Park provides a peaceful and well-maintained environment for dogs and their owners to enjoy outdoor recreation.”

According to the Brookdale Park Conservancy, the dog park opened in November 2007 in a clearing that residents were already using as an informal area to walk their dogs. The area has separate fenced-in areas for both large dogs small dogs. It has stone dust surfacing and various pieces of apparatus for play and exercise. A steel archway welcomes visitors, and a pathway designed with ornamental brick pavers leads them to the play areas. There are safety enclosures at each entrance to prevent unleashed dogs from running away, time out areas where excited dogs can be brought to calm down, dog washing areas and water fountains.

Planning a visit? Check out Essex County’s dog park rules and regulations online here.

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