Oxford’s newest dog park, located near Leonard Howell Park and along the Oxford Area Trail System (OATS), is now open to the public, giving local pet owners a second off-leash space to enjoy with their dogs.
It features two fenced-in play areas — one for large dogs and one for smaller breeds — and is located at 5094 Bonham Road, next to the Black Covered Bridge and near Mill Race MetroPark. Oxford’s original dog park remains open on the north side of town at 6801 Fairfield Road, next to the Oxford Recreational Trails.
“As Oxford becomes increasingly walkable, areas like Leonard Howell are seeing more foot traffic — and a lot of those visitors bring their dogs,” said Chad Smith, director of Oxford Parks and Recreation. “This new dog park complements our existing one and better serves residents on the south side of town.”
The site was chosen based on community feedback and its proximity to amenities including the playground, picnic shelter, boardwalk managed by the Three Valley Conservation Trust, and the scenic OATS trail.
Unlike some municipal parks, both dog parks are free and open to all residents. Basic rules apply: dog owners are asked to clean up after their pets, refrain from bringing toys or chairs that could clutter the space, and promptly remove any aggressive animals.
Smith noted that the park’s low maintenance costs allowed the city to fast-track the project. Additional improvements are planned over time, with future donations supporting upgrades such as water fountains, benches, and other amenities.
“Not every city this size even has one dog park — we now have two,” he said. “And we’re already seeing people use both.”
To help maintain and improve both parks, residents can donate to the Oxford Dog Park Fund, hosted by the Greater Oxford Community Foundation. A QR code is posted on-site, and donations can also be made via the City of Oxford Parks and Recreation website.
Questions or interest in volunteering? Contact OPRD at 513-523-6314 or email OPRD@cityofoxford.org
