This place is kinda trash. There are a few older regulars who seem to be the self-appointed park police, and one of their dogs, Willie, has repeatedly attacked mine. Still, the owner shows up every day with her two elderly dogs that seem to gain no enjoyment from the park although the rules clearly state that aggressive dogs aren't allowed. She does have a shock collar for Willie, but is always too busy socializing to pay attention to her dog, and in my opinion, if you need that type of device to keep your dog in line, maybe the dog park is t the best place for it. Anyway, I've mostly given up on bringing my dog here because people are continually bringing aggressive dogs here against the rules. Buncha jerks. read more

Dog had a good time - lots of running space. Bring own water (came in Feb). Otherwise had a great time!

I'm going to give the benefit of the doubt... because it's been raining but this park is pretty low maintained :/ they are only 2 grass spots, in the whole area...and the city or whoevwe does not empty the poop trashcans read more

See all

Favorite dog park ever. The big dog side has its problems, there are often just too many dogs for people to keep an eye on. (And some people never watch their dogs or pick up after them). But if you have a small dog you won't find a friendlier group of people and dogs. We go nearly every day. read more

See all

This is a dog park where dogs will be dogs.Some owners are very delicate beings and consequently, cannot handle other dogs around their dogs, in rough play. When you have unleashed dogs, in any capacity, things happen. If you cannot handle it, keep your dog out. The field does needs mulch, holes filled and many ditches filled , due to erosion. I find 90% of the patrons reasonable and seasoned dog owners. If a dog or person gets hurt, people step up and all is well. If a person's feelings get hurt, sad. read more

Not bad, but not great either. Sometimes the grass is cut and things look good. Sometimes it's unkempt and easy to step in poo mountains. The small dog side is almost all 5-10 lb. dogs, and the big dog side is all 50+lb. dogs. If you, like I, have a dog in the 20-30 lb. range, your dog is too big for the small dog side (especially if very energetic and playful), but too small for the big dog side. Our girl runs with the big dogs as long as the big dogs don't get too aggressive (which unfortunately happens here too often). The bad part about this is not the space itself, it's the people. Many are attentive and are there for their dogs, but some don't care if their dogs are picking fights (one apologized to my wife for her dog throwing ours to the ground by picking her up by her neck, but did nothing about it) or taking dumps in the middle of the field (and their owners not cleaning them up) - they're too busy flipping through Instagram or Tinder to care. read more

I think I was met by the same local as others have mentioned, who quickly assessed that my dog wasn't a good fit for this (his?) park. Being that two other dogs were going at my dog's neck within 5 minutes of being there, I came to the same conclusion. The guy suggested Short Pump park and I gladly took his advice and got out of there. He appreciated that I wasn't offended, but I admit, I was bewildered and confused by the odd scene at Barker Field. Sure enough Short Pump dog park is filled with engaged owners, friendly dogs, well-kept facilities with water and shade. We always meet someone new and nice each visit at the Short Pump park. Although I didn't like Barker Field I do appreciate I was told of a much better one by one of the locals. If you go to Barker field, just keep a really close eye on your dog. Good luck! read more

There could be some improvements made. The people were very nice, although I was immediately met by the local who views it as 'his' park. He seemed to be making assessments on if my dog was going to do well with the other dogs there- I would have minded more if my pup 'didn't make the cut', thought totally not his place to say if I could stay or not. The first time I came was mid morning on a Thursday and there were only a few dogs romping. It was nice, but extremely muddy, very little grass and that was just on the edges. Up to this point I would give it a 3. At around 6 that evening we came back. It was insane. It was bursting at the seams with dogs and their people. The owners' responsibility seemed to be to stand near the gate and smoke while the dogs were left to deal with things themselves. We saw three scuffles that should have had human intervention long before it got to the point of a gang of dogs attacking one little guy and cries that make your heart break. It got to the point that we had to leave, it was just too much. We will not be back. This points out the fact that there needs to be more options for Richmond area dog owners. read more

The group of Fido-lovers who started Richmond's very first dog park are responsible for creating Barker Field at Byrd Park and work closely as a partner with the city's recreation department. This is a great dog park and very popular. My dog, Max, who is obsessed with playing fetch the ball (he's like that obsessive compulsive dog in the "Dr. Doolittle" movie) loves to chase it around in the mulch here. I try to go at times when there will be fewer dogs as Max isn't very social, so mid-mornings and early afternoons during the weekdays when most people work are good for us. Keep an eye on the gate latches as some folks forget to close them. read more

Barker Field - Max and his Pinky - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Barker Field is perhaps not the best dog park I've ever been to, but it gets the job done just fine. It has a decent size water drinking area for the pups, and I also appreciate the separate area for small dogs only. My dog doesn't quite fit into this category, but I like that there's an option for those that do. Overall the park could use some improvements though, such as the picnic tables, which are old and falling apart. Otherwise it's a nice retreat for RVA city dwellers looking to give their fury friends some socialization and extra room to run. read more

Barker Field - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

See all

WHAT.THE.HECK. I've been happily returning to this dog park daily for awhile now but my recent visit was surprising. I arrived with my dog and noticed one Rottweiler, 3 pit bulls and other labs and large dogs waiting for my dog to come in. Now I don't judge dogs, I judge owners and I know that these are big, smart, strong dogs and I don't know what type of training they've had so I take basic precaution with my little guy (who prefers playing with bigger dogs, not intimidated whatsoever) I bring him in and immediately he is swarmed by these dogs, I pick him up so we can move over to a bench and get settled in. As I pick my dog up, an old man yells at me (honest to God), "don't do that, the dogs will attack if you pick a little dog up because they think it's a baby" A BABY. Uh..... why the heck would you think your dog should be in a dog park if that's a problem it may have. Your dog should not ATTACK me if I pick up my own dog. As his girlfriend side kick came running over to hold back the Rottweiler about to attack he proceeds to say "eh, it's ok we're regulars here"... hmmm ok I've never seen you before and I come at this time of this day every day of the week and regardless, how is that a pass for having poorly behaved dogs...? On top of that, another young girl there had two dogs, one was a pitbull who would absolutely not disconnect its mouth from my dogs face. It was extremely mouthy and the owner had no control over it. After her endless apologies, I decided to just leave. I had been in there for a total of 5 minutes and I had nothing but trouble from irresponsible owners. While I was in the leashing area, this young girls second dog came in the gates with us and I tried to nicely have the dog leave but it was also glued to my dog and would not listen to the owner calling for it. It was a mess- a violent dog fight waiting to happen. I headed right over to Churchill Dog Park (really nice, smaller dog park) and met another dog owner who said their dog got attacked by one of the pitbulls I had seen that day who was owned by the "regular" old guy. It's shocking! I really liked Barkers Field and I know it's just a dog park, but these are our pets and I can't believe some of the dog owners I saw there on my last visit. Really scary. ****My updated review is being harassed by a Yelp user (guess who) so no wonder everyone that has negative reviews about this park has to update saying they are being harassed on Yelp. This user is patrolling this page like he's the owner of Barker Field (maybe that's why he feels so entitled with his dogs?). What an extreme measure this user is going to...... Probably because he's fully aware of his behavior and his dogs behavior so he has to bully all that try to inform others... read more

Stopped here on a road trip to give the dogs a break. They absolutely loved it! All of the dogs and people were friendly. There was enough seating available and also enough shade for the dogs to hang out when it got a little too hot. The only thing that we weren't the biggest fan of was the long grass in certain areas. read more

Barker Field - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

DO NOT BRING YOUR FRIENDLY DOG TO THIS PARK, people with aggressive dogs do. My poor dog was attacked yesterday by a dog in the park right as we where walking in. Now she has been left with an abscess on her neck that is infected, incredibly inflamed and painful. Also, our sweet, friendly, outgoing baby is now scared and anxious, walking around with her tail between her legs. We are left with a huge vet bill and lots of medical care at home. read more

It's pretty much always dead and unkept. The park isn't separated by temperament necessarily so people will bring their rescue dogs and just kind of put them out there. It's very unpredictable. I've seen dogs bitten several times. The smaller side is almost always empty. There's also tons of thick mulch and dry bark all over the ground. I've had to pick splinters out of my dog's pads after leaving. I highly do not recommend this park. It's really disheveled, unsafe, and unorganized. read more

My first experience here was great. There were many dogs and everyone was friendly. It was easy to get in and out of the park. I was surprised to see dogs of all sizes. It seemed well kept and the owners care about keeping everyone safe. There are two separate gated parks meant for small dogs and large dogs. Those with small dogs were in the large dog park and were getting upset when their little dog was yelping due to the larger dogs playing. There is plenty of space for the dogs to run. Some of the dogs did seem overly playful and a few fights broke out. At that point I left because I feared for my own dog. All in all a good experience and I will probably be back. read more

The people who don't like Barker Field probably shouldn't own a dog. I'm pretty sure the dog will be far better off. read more

Absolutely love this place. Round of applause for the volunteers and owners that keep this place clean. That being said PSA to owners.. stop picking your dogs up and sheltering them, you are only making them a target to all other dogs. This doesn't defuse the situation, only make things a lot worse. Dogs feed of your emotion.. you freak out so do they. Other than that no better place for dogs to interact and let off some energy. read more

Several years ago, this was an almost daily trip for me and my new adopted mixed breed dog, however, the park's physical condition has deteriorated drastically and there are too many irresponsible dog guardians who either aren't paying attention to their dog's whereabouts or blatantly violate the cleared posted rules of NO INTACT UNALTERED DOGS. At one point, there were a group of regulars who would band together and enforce this policy but nowadays, who wants to initiate a confrontation with a complete stranger? I agree, there are lots of seemingly unstable,unbalanced individuals who are just plain weird who frequent the park. Sad really, since there are also lots of really god dog owners who care very much but have simply given up. If you look around and do some research, you'll find that there are other options within (and just outside) the city that permit offleash dog play. read more

Park filled with irresponsible owners who are trying to "socialize" their aggressive rescues. Upon moments of entering was greeted by a dog whose owner screamed "Savage, leave them alone". The moment my dog trotted away to get some space Savage was snarling and biting him. Ridiculous. When attempting to break up the melee, two other dogs came in snarling and biting without even having met my docile, at this point, traumatized Labrador. This is the third time I have encountered people with aggressive dogs here trying to expect their dogs to magically learn manners. Dog parks are for well behaved, TRAINED well socialized dogs. It is not a training ground. Absolutely ridiculous this needs to be said. Avoid if you don't want your dog to have vet bills and a lifetime of trauma. read more

Amie mentioned that she was glad I said it's tough to find so I thought I'd clarify my review to make it a little easier to find. If you're coming from Boulevard heading to the Nickle bridge go just like you're going to the bridge. Turn right between the pond and the tennis courts, then turn left at the split. IMMEDIATELY after you turn left, turn right toward the Carillion. It's more like a dog leg to the left instead of a left then right. Heh, dog leg, dog park. Anyway. Take the first right off of that onto a gravel road and go all the way back. The dog park will be on the right. If you've come over the bridge turn left on the first road you can make a left on when you pass the toll. Go straight back. read more

Thank goodness for Barker Field. Without such a place, our critter would be restricted to on leash walks and what's fun in that?!? The best time to go is during the week. Not to knock the "weekend only" peeps, but their critters are a tad wound up since they have been couped all week. So, the weekdays are a calmer time to visit. Things to keep in mind... - Keep an eye on your dog. This isn't a neglect a dog place - Always pick up - and follow all the posted rules. read more

6 or so picnic tables some with covers a few benches lots of doggy bags, trash can located at entrance. Two sides, one small, one all dog. Doggie water fountain inside dog park. Lots of Parking Nice people. Busy even for cold day. FYI: Dogs are not allowed in other parks of Barker Park only the dog park. read more

Barker Field - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

My fiancée and I love this place and really can't understand the negative reviews. It is a huge space and all the dogs are pretty friendly and get along pretty well. Everyone once in a while a big bark fest will break out and maybe two dogs will get too aggressive but those dogs are looking for it and the more calm dogs usually run away AND the owners are usually there within seconds to break it up. Our little 17 pound dog is usually terrible with big dogs but here he gets along with them because everyone's dogs are so friendly. It can get muddy when it rains but that is just par for the course. Highly recommend bringing your dog there! We also found it the first time without any issues. read more

Go on a weekday or early in the morning if you want to avoid massive crowds- otherwise we love this park. Definitely keep an eye on your dog, though. This isn't doggie daycare, and you need to be on top of any behavioral issues. Only friction we've experienced is small dog owners refusing to use the small dog run! I've seen little dogs get trampled, bitten and since I have a retired racing greyhound I have to leave every time someone shows up with some tiny little thing. Please use the appropriate enclosure for your dog! read more

Nice place to take your furry friend for a walk/run. There is plenty of space for lots of dogs to run around. Most owners do a good job of cleaning up after their pets. There is plenty of parking just in front of the gates. There are plenty of regulars here and can get crowded at times. read more

I take my boxer to Barker Field every day for about an hour. Its a large space with plenty of room to run and play. People keep it clean for the most part. It is very convenient to the fan area. I will warn you that there is a white guy who brings his very aggressive husky who randomly attacks other dogs. This is not the usual here. I said something to him today and he ignored me. My boxer is still only 10 months old and gets along with every dog. This is only ever an issue with this one husky. Just a warning read more

Love this dog park. I bring my two dogs here almost every day. Really spacious and the other dogs along with the people are very friendly. read more

Barker Field - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

For all of the people calling me ignorant about my post from years ago I would like to relay that you misread the sentiment I was trying to get across. I have nothing against pit bulls. I was just relaying that my friends dog was mauled by one at this park and I know of other attacks here. Simply alerting people to be careful. So deal w it. Entitled to share the experience. I love dogs. Including pit bulls. But not the ones that nearly kill other dogs. Any breed could have done it but I'm staying the breed that did so...... read more

Too many irresponsible owners and untrained, unneutered dogs here. My dog got beat up so badly here that we had to take him to the vet to get him stitched up----My vet said 50% of her injury appointments are from the dog park----bad news. Too many people talking instead of supervising their pets. read more

The place is really nice and well kept. A shame some irresponsible owners bring their aggressive dogs to the park.

The location of barker field is absolutely perfect! I just wish the park itself was better. The park is typically very dirty and people do not do a good job of cleaning up after their pet read more

Great dog park, full of friendly folks and social pups. Just follow the rules and keep an eye on the interactions of your dog and you will have a great time! Also, I would recommend keeping small dogs in the puppy/small dog section for their own safety. read more

We took our 1 yr old lab mix here a few weeks ago on a Sunday. He Loved it!! I was thankful that Erin mentioned in her review that it would be tricky to find the entrance and it definitely was. Had I not been tipped off by her review I probably would have given up. There is a double gate entrance which is a key part of a good dog park so you can control introducing your dog to the other dogs. When a new dog would arrive a group of very excited dogs would crowd the other side of the gate for the newbie to enter - don't be alarmed it's normal. The park has 2 sections; a large section for bigger dogs and a smaller section for small dogs. The park itself was very clean, the ground is covered in wood chips, there are a couple of benches and picnic tables to sit. When we went there was a hose to fill up water bowls. They also have doggie bags available in case you forgot to bring yours. If you have extra leave some for the next person as Erin said "pay it forward." The dog owners were all pretty friendly with each other and (all but one) seemed to be conscientious of their dogs actions, as well as picking up after them. All of the dogs got along quite well expept for one altercation with a husky and a smaller dog. The husky attacked the smaller dog and trampled her as she was trying to run away. I don't know if this is the same husky mentioned in the previous review but it was unfortunate and very sad because I saw it start and there was no provoking from the smaller dog. Please people if your dog does not get along well with others an open field full of friendly dogs is not the place for it. It's only a matter of yime before something tragic happens. On a positive note they way all the dog owners banded together to get the husky off the dog and then run to their cars for ointment, first aid kits, etc was great. Sonny slept the rest of the day once we brought him home. He was exhausted and loved it - overall it is a great dog park. read more

Well-maintained, very friendly, down-home-y, manned by friendly locals constantly, split up for big and small dogs, lots to see and do, lots of bins and bags and tables and chairs. Great place for your dog to have fun and socialize while you hang out and socialize... or read. read more

Great dog park! We had a little trouble getting to the parking area but were able to find it eventually with some help. We came the morning after a huge storm so it was particularly damp but surprisingly not as muddy as I expected since the dog park is a mixture of mulch and wood chips. It was very lively and there were a lot more furry friends running around than at Chimborazo Park. This could potentially be tricky if you don't keep a keen eye on your pup but if your dog is well-behaved they will have a great time. read more

This dog park is better than any other that we have been to in the Richmond area but still nothing amazing. The park is very muddy and is VERY difficult to find. It is larger than other parks in the area, however, and offered our dog lots of room to run and play. Nothing spectacular, but not awful either. read more

Barker Field - Super helpful map to find the park! - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Great Dog Park! Has a small and large dog area, benches and picnic tables to sit on while you watch your dog play with others. Always has lots of large dogs there and sometimes a few small ones in the small dog area. The owners are pretty good about watching their dogs although sometimes you get the guy who doesn't pick up after his or doesn't curb his dogs (way) over enthusiasm, but generally everyone's pretty good. The people are very friendly too and there is plenty of parking. read more

I love this park. I am able to let my dog off leash for puppy play time without stressing about him being in eyesight. I can relax and meet other pet owners. My dog enjoys himself and o do I. You just have to clean up after your animal. But that's respect anyway. Has a water area so you need not bring a pet bowl and the surrounding area has many trails and such to explore if you want some bonding time with your pet. Clean, friendly area. It's such a nice area to spend a quiet day. It has plenty of clean trails that can provide hours of exploration, nice fields for picnics and nice accessibility to a fenced in dog park. It's a complete honey hole. I go here often with my dog to get some exercise and explore nature. There is an access to get across the railroad tracks to access the river which is amazing. Very few people bother you over there and it provides a nice escape from reality. I allow my dog off leash for free time over there. Plenty of critters to check out if you walk through the woods, I've even had a deer come dangerously close checking my dog and I out on our walk. It's really close to Maymont so you can walk right over if need be. Great for bikers, runners, hikers and animal lovers. I recommend checking it out. Good for family days too. read more

Barker Field - Having fun - Dog Parks Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Reaction to my post merely confirms that this park should be avoided - primarily because of some of the people, not the dogs. The "ranger" is clearly described as "self-appointed." There are no rangers in the park. And he wasn't polite. He immediately threatened to call "animal control" and said I would have to pay "hundreds in fines." There was nothing polite about it. Someone once famously said that "the law is not an ass." There are purposes behind rules. The rule on intact males exists to prevent sexually mature dogs from causing problems. Mine isn't, and wasn't. As I also wrote, if the rules in this park were literally enforced, it would be nearly empty. Some people just look for confrontation and conflict. Unfortunately I found one such person. Other trolls have now surfaced. read more

It's extremely muddy. People ignore their dogs and don't pick up the feces. Often intact male and female animals are brought in against rules. All this is not so bad since its a dog park after all but I never bring my dogs since the day my 25 lb beagle was picked up by his throat and shaken violently by a large aggressive pit that would not let him go. The owner screamed at her dog and it only let go when I finally wrenched its mouth open and got my blue, asphixiated dog out. The owner blamed me for my beagle being "loud". I immediately called animal control but the owner took her dog and left and I rushed my dog to the vet for critical care. Hundreds of dollars later, he is fine but I will never go back. My beagle now goes to a doggie day care where all the dogs are evaluated and this kind of lowest common denominator owner and her trashy dog would never be allowed. Use this park at your own risk. read more