The North Shore is a dog lover's paradise, with everything from wooded reservations to sandy beaches. Whether you're looking for off-leash fun in Lynn Woods or a scenic walk along Marblehead's rocky coast, this guide covers the best dog parks the North Shore has to offer.
After a big day at the park, your pup might need some rest! Pawmenities North Shore in Lynnfield offers cage-free daycare and boarding for tired pups.
Explore North Shore Daycare →Lynnfield, Saugus & Wakefield Area
MarketStreet Dog Park — Lynnfield
Location: MarketStreet Lynnfield, Route 1
A popular gathering spot for North Shore dog owners right in the heart of Lynnfield:
- Separate areas for large and small dogs
- Water stations and waste bag dispensers provided
- Shaded seating for owners to relax
- Adjacent to shopping — run errands after playtime
- Well-maintained turf and fencing
Pro tip: Early mornings (before 9 AM) and weekday afternoons are least crowded.
Breakheart Reservation — Saugus
Location: 177 Forest Street, Saugus
This stunning 640-acre DCR reservation is a North Shore gem:
- Miles of trails winding through forests and around Pearce Lake
- Swimming allowed at Pearce Lake (dogs love it!)
- Varied terrain — rocky outcrops, wooded paths, lake views
- Free parking at multiple lots
- Leash required but plenty of space to explore
Best for: Active dogs who love hiking and swimming. Bring towels!
Lake Quannapowitt — Wakefield
Location: Church Street, Wakefield
A beloved local spot with a 2.5-mile path circling the lake:
- Paved walking path perfect for all fitness levels
- Beautiful lake views year-round
- Busy but friendly dog community
- Parking available at multiple access points
Lynn & Swampscott
Lynn Woods Reservation — Lynn
Location: Great Woods Road, Lynn
One of the largest municipal parks in the United States:
- 2,200 acres of forests, ponds, and rocky terrain
- 30+ miles of trails for every skill level
- Dungeon Rock — a fun historical landmark
- Stone Tower with panoramic North Shore views
- Free parking at Pennybrook Road entrance
Best for: Adventure-seeking dogs and owners who want to explore.
King's Beach — Lynn/Swampscott
Location: Lynn Shore Drive
- Dogs allowed October through April
- Sandy beach great for running and fetch
- Ocean views along Lynn Shore Drive
Note: Dogs prohibited May-September.
Salem & Peabody
Salem Willows Park — Salem
Location: Fort Avenue, Salem
A historic Salem waterfront destination:
- Grassy areas perfect for fetch and play
- Waterfront views of Salem Harbor
- Beach access (dogs allowed off-season)
- Historic arcade and snack stands nearby
Forest River Park — Salem
Location: West Avenue, Salem
- Fenced off-leash dog area
- Beach and swimming access
- Playground for families with kids
- Free parking
Brooksby Farm — Peabody
Location: 54 Felton Street, Peabody
- Open fields and wooded walking paths
- Farm animals (keep dogs leashed near livestock)
- Seasonal activities — apple picking, pumpkins
- Farm stand with local produce
Marblehead & Beverly
Chandler Hovey Park — Marblehead
Location: Follett Street, Marblehead Neck
- Marblehead Light — iconic lighthouse views
- Rocky coastline perfect for exploring
- Ocean panoramas on clear days
- Limited parking — arrive early on weekends
Devereux Beach — Marblehead
Location: Ocean Avenue, Marblehead
- Dogs allowed October through April only
- Sandy beach for running and playing
- Beautiful harbor views
Long Hill — Beverly
Location: 572 Essex Street, Beverly
- 114 acres of gardens and woodlands
- Leashed dogs welcome on trails
- Beautiful historic gardens
North of Salem
Ravenswood Park — Gloucester
Location: Western Avenue, Gloucester
- 500+ acres of woodland trails
- Magnolia Swamp boardwalk
- Old growth forest sections
Halibut Point State Park — Rockport
Location: Gott Avenue, Rockport
- Stunning ocean views from granite quarry
- Tide pools to explore at low tide
- Rocky trails along the coast
Dog Park Etiquette
- Always clean up after your dog
- Keep vaccinations current — read our vaccine guide
- Respect leash rules where posted
- Beach restrictions — most beaches ban dogs May-September
- Know your dog — leave if they're overwhelmed
- Carry water — especially on hot days
Learn more about reading dog body language at the park.