Independence Grove Dog Park Review
Libertyville, Illinois
Best Dog Parks in Chicago Series
Home, Sweet Home!
Benji and I had a great Friday afternoon exploring one of our favorite dog parks in the North Shore - Independence Grove. It was unseasonably warm and actually not windy, so the perfect day to get out and play. This park opens at 6:30am, and closes at sunset (or 7pm, whichever comes first). We got about an hour in before it got dark at 4pm… Because Bub is extremely friendly and loves other dogs, this park works well for us. Socially, it’s also great for any dog moms looking to meet new friends!
You really can’t beat the views and activities for dogs here. From the pond to open fields and woods to explore - it’s a pup dog’s dream for sure. (Benji wanted me to mention that there is also an abundance of “good” sticks.) It’s incredibly clean considering how highly trafficked it is. They provide free doggie bags (the good ones!), and there are garbage cans conveniently located throughout the park. One seriously underrated feature in my opinion is the bathrooms located right next to the parking lot. A game changer!
This dog park is approximately 30 acres, so its definitely on the large side. In my opinion, its the perfect length to feel like you got a solid walk in without taking up half your day to complete. 2 laps is about the perfect distance for me and Benj. The main path circles around the pond, and there are 2 trails that can be accessed from the south side of the park. (Leashing required on the trails!) - Benji and I haven’t tried out the trials yet, but it’s definitely on the list!
I have two main concerns about this park. The first is that it is one of the most consistently heavily trafficked dog parks that I’ve been to, so PLEASE consider whether that is the correct environment for your pup! The second is that most dogs roam off leash at this park. However, if your dog doesn’t have good recall - you’re going to have a heck of a time rounding them up to come home.
This park is so far our favorite of the ones we’ve explored. It’s also one of five in the county included when you pay for a day or annual pass. Overall, we’ll give it a 4.5/5 stars, only taking off points for the pricing as it is a bit on the $$$pricey side.
Location:
31531 N Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville, IL 60048
Pros:
Beautiful landscaping including a large pond
Clean! - lots of garbage cans around for convince, free doggy bags, courteous guests
Friendly dogs and fun atmosphere
On site bathrooms
Fenced in
Dogs can be off leash and play
Large open spaces
Plenty of parking
Benches to rest and relax as needed
Buying a day/annual pass grants you access to 5 parks total
Cons
Must pay either a daily fee or annual fee
Muddy and slippery with weather
Rough terrain - no paved paths
Not a great setting if your dog is not good off a leash or is fearful of other dogs/people
Doggie bags only located at front of park
Pricing
Day Pass: Resident $15, Non-resident $30
Annual Pass: Resident $50 (for first dog), Non-resident $150
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 WAGS rating
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