Freedom Barkway is an official City of Atlanta off-leash dog park in the Old Fourth Ward. The roughly two-acre space has separate fenced areas for larger and smaller dogs, seating, shade, water and a dog-wash station outside the gate.
Plan your visit
- Address: 523 Highland Avenue NE, Atlanta, GA 30312.
- Hours: Current public listings show daily access from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.; check City notices and posted signs.
- Dog areas: Separate fenced enclosures for large and small dogs.
- Facilities: Benches, shaded seating, water stations and an outdoor dog wash are reported.
- Surface: Expect grass and dirt that can become muddy after rain.
- Parking: Street and nearby lot availability varies in the Old Fourth Ward.
Find the dog park entrance
Approach from Highland Avenue NE near Boulevard and Freedom Parkway. The gated dog park is visible from Freedom Parkway, but the practical entrance is from the Highland Avenue side. Keep your dog leashed until both gates are closed behind you.
Open directions to Freedom Barkway.
What park goers say
Park goers praise the generous large-dog area, separate small-dog enclosure, friendly community, shaded benches, water and dog-wash station. The central neighborhood location also makes it convenient for nearby residents.
Recent cautions include holes, mud, waste and occasional sharp debris. Walk the enclosure before releasing your dog, bring backup water and remove your dog if play becomes unsafe.
Rules before you enter
Atlanta requires dogs to remain in sight and under voice control. Owners may bring no more than three dogs and must remove aggressive or continually barking dogs. Dogs must be licensed, healthy, vaccinated and wearing a collar and identification tag.
Puppies under 16 weeks, dogs in heat and dogs wearing pronged collars are prohibited. Close and latch both entrance gates, clean up waste and closely supervise children under 12. Only bite-size dog treats are allowed.
Before you go
Check the City of Atlanta’s Leash Up ATL dog-park page and current park-use rules. Compare current visitor reports with posted conditions before entering.
Last researched September 1, 2026. Water service, ground conditions and temporary closures can change.
