Forest Park Barking Lot is a fenced dog run behind The Overlook in Kew Gardens, Queens. Separate areas give small and large dogs room to play beneath mature trees, and the natural dirt surface makes this feel more wooded than many city dog runs.
Plan your visit
- Address: 80-30 Park Lane, Kew Gardens, NY 11415.
- Location: Behind The Overlook, near Park Lane South and Forest Park Drive.
- Hours: Check the gate and community page before leaving; the official Barking Lot website does not publish a current daily schedule.
- Play areas: Separate fenced runs for small and large dogs.
- Surface and shade: Natural dirt beneath mature trees; expect mud after rain and dust during dry spells.
- Bring: A leash, waste bags, water, a bowl and a towel after wet weather.
Find the dog park entrance
Use 80-30 Park Lane as your destination and look for The Overlook, the Queens Parks building at the northeast edge of Forest Park. The Barking Lot is directly behind The Overlook. The official trail map marks a dog run beside The Overlook and shows the surrounding Park Lane South approaches.
Get directions to Forest Park Barking Lot. Keep your dog leashed throughout The Overlook grounds and nearby park paths; off-leash play is allowed only inside the dog run.
Shade, water and ground conditions
Mature trees provide generous shade, while benches give handlers places to sit in both play areas. Community volunteers help maintain the run. Water bowls and a hose are commonly available, but operation can vary with weather and maintenance, so bring your own drinking water.
The natural surface is one of the park’s defining features. It can become muddy after rain, dusty during dry periods and uneven where dogs dig. Walk the enclosure before fast play and help fill holes as the posted rules request.
Rules before you enter
Each handler may bring no more than three dogs. Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated against rabies and free from communicable disease. Aggressive dogs and dogs in heat are not allowed. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult.
Monitor your dog, interrupt rough play, remove any dog involved in a fight and pick up all waste. Dogs need a harness or collar in the run, but prong, choke and spike collars are prohibited. Leash dogs when leaving. Food other than dog treats, glass, smoking, alcohol and open flames are not allowed. Review the current Barking Lot rules and safety guidance before visiting.
What other park goers say
Park goers often praise the roomy wooded setting, abundant shade, separate size areas and friendly group of regular visitors. Many enjoy the more natural feel and appreciate the benches and volunteer-supported supplies.
Other visitors mention mud, dust, holes and occasional gaps in water or cleanup supplies. Experiences also vary with the mix of dogs using the run. Bring water, inspect the ground and group before entering, and leave if play becomes unsafe. Read current visitor reviews.
More options and updates
Browse other Queens dog parks or the wider New York dog park directory. Last researched September 1, 2026. Check the Forest Park Barking Lot community page and posted gate notices for current conditions.