Rickman’s Run at Holmes Lake Park is one of Lincoln’s largest off-leash spaces, with a 22.25-acre area for larger dogs and a separate 1.45-acre small-dog enclosure. The fenced park includes improved walking trails, broad flat fields, accessible parking, and a covered restroom near the entrance.
Plan your visit
- Location: South 70th Street, east of South Holmes Park Road, Lincoln, NE 68506.
- Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily; dogs may not use the park when it is dark and unlighted.
- Large-dog area: 22.25 acres.
- Small-dog area: 1.45 acres.
- Access: Ample parking, accessible concrete spaces and improved walking trails.
- Restroom: Covered restroom near the dog-run entrance.
Find the dog park entrance
Rickman’s Run is east of South 70th Street, across from the main Holmes Lake area. Turn east toward the dog-run parking lot from South 70th Street near Holmes Park Road. If the lot is full, visitors report using parking by the lake and following the pedestrian and bicycle route through the underpass rather than crossing busy traffic at street level.
Get directions to Rickman’s Run.
Open fields, trails and creek conditions
The large enclosure offers enough room for a trail-style walk as well as open-field running. Keep your dog within view even when following the longer paths. The separate small-dog area provides a more compact option for dogs that should not share the main enclosure.
Visitors frequently describe Antelope Creek, wet ground and mud within the larger park. The city does not publish routine dog-swimming water-quality results on the facility page. Prevent dogs from drinking creek water, avoid water that looks discolored or stagnant, and skip creek access after contamination advisories or heavy runoff.
Weather, ticks and parking
Grass, wooded edges and creek access make this a varied outing, but they also increase exposure to mud, burrs and ticks. Check paws, coat and ears after the visit and bring towels when the ground is wet. Shade varies along the route, so carry drinking water and plan shorter visits during heat.
The city lists ample parking, but busy summer periods can fill the entrance lot. Never leave a dog unattended in a vehicle, and use the trail and underpass if you park across South 70th Street.
Rules before you enter
Keep dogs leashed until they are fully inside the dog park and leash them again before leaving. Carry a leash at all times. Dogs must remain under control and within view, and they may not enter when the dog park is closed or when it is dark and unlighted.
Clean up waste immediately. Human food is prohibited, though dog treats are allowed. Fill holes your dog digs, repair any turf damage, and follow all posted rules. The handler is responsible for damage or injury caused by the dog. Review the complete rules on the official Rickman’s Run page.
What other park goers say
Park goers repeatedly praise the unusually large fenced area, long walking routes, open grass, creek, separate small-dog space and friendly community. Many visitors value being able to walk with their dog rather than remaining in a compact play yard.
Other visitors warn that dogs can get muddy or wet, ticks may be present and parking can fill during busy periods. Some also raise concerns about creek water quality. Bring water and towels, check current environmental advisories, and keep your dog close enough to interrupt unsafe play or water access. Read current visitor reviews.
More options and updates
Browse other Lincoln dog parks or the wider Nebraska dog park directory. Last researched September 3, 2026. Check the official facility page before leaving for closures, weather restrictions or posted changes.