Liza Jackson Dog Park is the dog-friendly area at Fort Walton Beach’s waterfront Liza Jackson Park. Visitors can use separate fenced runs for small and large dogs, and many also come for the shallow shoreline where dogs can splash. The waterfront area is not fully fenced, so it requires closer supervision than the enclosed runs.
Plan your visit
- Dog-park access: 342 Miracle Strip Parkway SW, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548.
- Official park address: The city lists Liza Jackson Park at 338 Miracle Strip Parkway.
- Hours: Sunrise to 9 p.m.; the boat ramp normally has separate 24-hour access but is currently affected by construction.
- Play areas: Separate fenced runs for small and large dogs, plus an unfenced waterfront area used by visitors with dogs.
- Facilities: Park benches, picnic tables, restrooms, a playground, fishing pier and waterfront.
- Current construction: The city closed the west side of the park, including the boat launch, beginning August 3, 2026 for an approximately six-month renovation.
Find the dog park entrance
Enter from Miracle Strip Parkway and follow current signs for the dog area. The dog-park listing point is near 342 Miracle Strip Parkway SW, while the city uses 338 Miracle Strip Parkway for the full park. Construction may alter internal vehicle and walking routes.
Get directions to Liza Jackson Dog Park. Keep your dog leashed outside posted off-leash areas and follow all temporary construction barriers.
Construction and temporary access
Fort Walton Beach says the west side of Liza Jackson Park and the boat launch closed on August 3, 2026 for a major renovation. The project includes a new restroom building, redesigned boat-launch area, new parking, sidewalks and stormwater improvements and is expected to take about six months.
The city notice does not confirm that the entire dog park is closed, but parking and waterfront access may change during the work. Check the official notice or call the Recreation Department before traveling if the shoreline or a particular entrance is important to your visit.
Fenced runs and waterfront play
The fenced dog park has separate areas for small and large dogs. Visitors report water fountains, shaded benches and rinse stations near the dog areas. Check each gate and water source when you arrive because maintenance and construction can affect availability.
The shallow waterfront is the feature many visitors remember most, but it is not fully fenced. Use a leash unless signs clearly permit off-leash use, and only allow a dog with reliable recall near the water. Check current water conditions, watch for boats and wildlife, prevent dogs from drinking salt or brackish water, and rinse them after swimming.
What other park goers say
Park goers frequently praise the small- and large-dog runs, shallow water access, sunset views, rinse stations and the option to combine dog play with a waterfront walk or picnic. Recent visitors also mention free parking and enough space for dogs to swim and play fetch.
Some reviewers report worn ground, muddy conditions, fence concerns or inconsistent restroom cleanliness. Others note that the waterfront is open rather than enclosed. Conditions vary by visit, and current construction adds another reason to inspect the area before letting a dog off leash.
Rules and safety
Use the fenced area assigned to your dog’s size and keep gates closed. Supervise your dog, clean up waste immediately and remove a dog that behaves aggressively. Puppies, vaccination requirements and other posted restrictions may apply, so read the signs before entering.
At the shoreline, keep control of your dog at all times. Bring fresh drinking water, a portable bowl, waste bags and a towel. Avoid swimming after storms or whenever water-quality advisories, algae, strong currents or visible contamination are present.
Before you go
- Check the official Liza Jackson Park page for current hours and facilities.
- Review the city’s current renovation notice for west-side and boat-launch access.
- Bring a leash, waste bags, fresh water, a bowl and a towel.
- Confirm posted off-leash boundaries before using the waterfront.
- Call Fort Walton Beach Recreation at 850-833-9576 if your visit depends on a particular entrance or facility.
Last researched September 1, 2026. Construction, waterfront access, water quality, hours and dog-park conditions can change.