John Gorrie Dog Park is the fenced off-leash area on the College Street side of Riverside Park in Jacksonville’s Riverside neighborhood. The City of Jacksonville lists it among the city’s dog parks, with separate play areas, shade and access to the broader park’s benches and parking.
Plan your visit
- Dog-park address: 631–745 College Street, Jacksonville, FL 32204.
- Riverside Park address: The city lists the full park at 753 Park Street.
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset.
- Play areas: Separate fenced sections for smaller and larger dogs.
- Water: Visitors describe dog drinking fountains and bowls; bring backup water because fountains can be out of service.
- Parking: The city lists car parking at Riverside Park. Availability near the College Street dog-park entrance can vary.
Find the dog park entrance
Use College Street for the dog-park side of Riverside Park. Look for the fenced enclosure and posted small- and large-dog entrances near 631–745 College Street rather than starting from the Park Street address for the full park.
Get directions to the John Gorrie Dog Park entrance. Keep your dog leashed until you are inside the correct enclosure and the entry gate is fully closed.
Fenced areas, shade and water
The dog park has fenced off-leash sections used for small and large dogs, with mature trees and places for people to sit. Visitors also mention water bowls, dog fountains, waste stations and a rinse hose outside the enclosure. Inspect the gate and water source when you arrive because maintenance can change availability.
Riverside Park has a spring-fed lake, but the city does not identify it as a dog-swimming area. Keep dogs leashed outside the fenced dog park and away from wildlife and water unless current signs clearly allow access.
What other park goers say
Park goers often appreciate the central Riverside location, roomy fenced sections, mature shade and the chance for dogs to socialize. Regular visitors also mention water bowls, cleanup supplies and enough space for active play.
Some visitors say parts of the enclosure can be sandy or dusty with limited grass. Others report occasional fountain outages or owners who do not watch their dogs closely. Conditions vary, so supervise play, keep an eye on crowd energy and bring water and cleanup supplies.
Rules and safety
Use the enclosure that matches the posted size designation, keep gates closed and supervise your dog at all times. Remove a dog that behaves aggressively, clean up waste promptly and do not bring food or toys that may create conflict in a crowded enclosure.
Jacksonville says dogs in city parks must remain leashed outside designated dog parks. Leave during lightning or severe weather, and avoid hot pavement during the warmest part of the day.
Before you go
- Check the official Riverside Park page for current amenities.
- Review Jacksonville’s official dog-park list and hours.
- Bring a leash, waste bags, fresh water and a portable bowl.
- Expect dirt or sand in parts of the play area and consider bringing a towel.
- Call Jacksonville Parks at 904-255-7919 if your trip depends on a specific facility.
Last researched September 1, 2026. Hours, water service, surface conditions and enclosure assignments can change.
