Fort Paws Dog Park
InlandA large, fenced, lake-view dog park near Fort Southwest Point in Kingston, with separate runs and benches under shade.
Fort Paws is the Kingston-area dog park, set on the grounds adjacent to Fort Southwest Point. It's larger than most municipal dog parks, with grass that holds up better than the city-dirt expanses many parks get reduced to. Two fenced sections separate small dogs from the main run, which gives owners with a smaller dog or a less social one a working option. Water spigots are on site for filling bowls; they get praise when they're working and complaints when they aren't.
The view from the park is the lake, which is unusual for a dog park and is the amenity that keeps people coming back. Benches sit under shade, and the layout is open enough for real exercise. Cleanup tools are stocked and bags are available, but the cleanliness depends on whether visitors actually use them. On a good day the grass is green and the place feels like a community-built amenity; on a bad day there's enough dog mess to limit where the dogs can run.
For travelers passing through on Interstate 40 with a dog in the car, this is one of the better detours along this stretch of I-40. Locals use it daily and the regulars know each other.
Tips
- Bring a bag even though bags are stocked; supply runs out occasionally.
- Water spigots can be intermittent; bring water if it's hot.
- The latches on the gates can be inconsistent; double-check they're closed behind you.
- Small-dog section is separately fenced; use it if your dog isn't ready for the main run.
What people love
- The lake view, which is unusual for a dog park.
- The size and the grass quality compared to typical city dog parks.
- The separate small-dog enclosure.
- The benches under shade.
What to know
- Cleanup is uneven; not all visitors clean up after their dogs.
- Water spigots and gate latches sometimes need maintenance.
- Adjacent to Fort Southwest Point grounds; you can combine a walk at the fort with a run for the dog.
- Free, 24-hour access.
Best time
Mornings before the heat in summer. Late afternoons in cool seasons. Less crowded on weekday off-hours.
First visit
The park is at 696 South Kentucky Street in Kingston, on the same grounds as Fort Southwest Point. Park at the lot; the gate is at the top of the run.
With kids
Kids can come if they're supervised and comfortable around unfamiliar dogs. The lake view from the benches works for parents while a dog runs.
Location
Frequently asked
When is Fort Paws Dog Park open?
The grass holds up across seasons; mid-summer can run hot without much shade in the open run.
Is Fort Paws Dog Park good for families with kids?
Kids can come if they're supervised and comfortable around unfamiliar dogs. The lake view from the benches works for parents while a dog runs.
How do I get to Fort Paws Dog Park?
The park is at 696 South Kentucky Street in Kingston, on the same grounds as Fort Southwest Point. Park at the lot; the gate is at the top of the run.
What should I know before visiting Fort Paws Dog Park?
Cleanup is uneven; not all visitors clean up after their dogs.
Last updated: April 30, 2026