Image credit to LotsaFunMaps.com
Lake Hiawatha Preserve Park
This isn't just a dog park; it’s a 220-acre immersion into the local landscape. If you’ve ever wanted to walk your pup through massive, Spanish-moss-draped oaks, this is your spot. The fenced areas are separated for small and large breeds, but be aware: the fences are roughly 4 feet high.
If your dog is a champion jumper or a large "Houdini," you'll want to stay alert. The park is famous for its shade, but during the dry season, the grass can thin out, leaving "Florida gray sand." Keep a towel in your trunk because your pup will likely come out looking like they’ve been powdered.
Location: 450 12th St, Clermont, FL 34711
Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
Local Tip: After the off-leash play, take the leashed trails toward the lake. It’s a "passive" park, meaning it’s quiet, peaceful, and great for birdwatching while you walk.
Image Credit to MyPetMaps.com
Minneola Dog Park
Located at the Minneola Trailhead, this is the park for owners who prioritize cleanliness. It’s smaller than Hiawatha but feels much more "boutique." The standout feature here is the artificial turf. It is hosed down regularly, meaning no mud, no sand, and significantly fewer bugs than the grass parks.
They are quite strict with the weight limit in the small dog section (under 35 lbs). It’s a very safe environment for smaller breeds who might feel intimidated by the high-energy "zoomies" at the larger parks.
Location: 315 Madison St, Minneola, FL 34715
Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Mon–Sat) | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Sun)
Local Tip: It's right next to a great playground and a skate park, so if you have kids in tow, everyone gets to burn off energy at once.
Image credit to Yelp.com
West Park
If your dog needs more than just a place to run, West Park is the local choice for engagement and agility. This park feels a bit more structured than the others. It features built-in agility equipment like tunnels and ramps, making it a great place to practice "place" commands or just give your pup a mental workout.
It tends to be much quieter than the other parks; if you have a dog that is a bit shy or overwhelmed by large packs, this is usually a safer bet for a low-stress outing.
Location: 658 12th St, Clermont, FL 34711
Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Mon–Sat) | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Sun)
Local Tip: It’s very close to the police station and well-lit, making it one of the most reliable spots for an evening run when the sun goes down early.
Credit Image to BringFido.com
Waterfront Park & Victory Point
This is the heart of Clermont’s "Active Lifestyle" brand. It’s not a fenced park, but it is the ultimate leashed-walk destination. You’ll be walking the paved trail along Lake Minneola with half the town. Victory Point is the crown jewel here—it’s an elevated boardwalk area with incredible sunset views. Just keep in mind that dogs aren't allowed on the beach or in the swimming areas (the gators and the park rangers both agree on this rule).
Location: 330 3rd St, Clermont, FL 34711
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Daily)
The "Pro" Move: Park here, do the walk, and then head two blocks over to Suncreek Brewery or The Southern on 8th. Both are incredibly dog-friendly and a staple of the "Clermont Saturday" experience.
⚠️ Essential New Local Warnings
The "Florida Sticker": If you venture off the paved paths into the "passive" trails (especially at Lake Louisa or Hiawatha), check your dog's paws and belly immediately after. Sandspurs are painful little burrs that love to hitch a ride on fur.
Hydration is on You: While most of these parks have water spigots, the Florida heat is relentless. Always bring your own portable bowl and fresh water to ensure your pup doesn't pick up anything from communal bowls.
Wildlife Awareness: We share this beauty with nature. Keep your pup out of high weeds and away from the lake edge at dawn or dusk—the local gators and snakes are most active then.
