Prairie Wolf Dog Park – Best Off-Leash Dog Park in Lake Forest, IL

🐶 Prairie Wolf Dog Park – Lake Forest’s Premier Off-Leash Dog Area

Looking for the best place to let your dog run free and enjoy nature? Prairie Wolf Dog Park in Lake Forest, IL is a top-rated off-leash dog park featuring 44 acres of secure, open space, wooded trails, and even a swimming pond for your pup. Whether you’re a local or making the trip from the city, Prairie Wolf Dog Park is well worth the visit.

📍 Prairie Wolf Dog Park Location

Address:
Prairie Wolf Dog Park
2075 S Waukegan Rd
Lake Forest, IL 60045

Hours:
Open daily from 6:30 AM to 7 PM (or sunset, whichever is later).

Maintenance Closures:
Closed until 11 AM on the first and third Wednesdays from April–October.

🐕 Why Visit Prairie Wolf Dog Park?

Prairie Wolf Dog Park is part of the Lake County Forest Preserves Off-Leash Dog Areas and is designed for dogs to safely play, run, and explore.

Park Features:

✅ Fully fenced 44-acre property
✅ Open fields, prairie grasses, and forested trails
✅ Swimming pond for water-loving dogs
✅ Training enclosures for practicing commands
✅ Water fountains and a rinse station
✅ Restrooms for pet owners

🎟️ Permit Information

To visit Prairie Wolf Dog Park, a permit is required.

Daily Permits:
💲 $30.25 (non-residents)
Purchase via the Passport Parking App or online at ppprk.com.

Annual Passes:
Available for frequent visitors. Valid at all Lake County Off-Leash Dog Parks.

🚨 Note:
No on-site self-pay stations are available. Purchase your permit before entering.

⚠️ Tips for Visiting Prairie Wolf Dog Park

  • Wear waterproof shoes – the park gets muddy after rain.
  • Bring towels to clean off your pup.
  • Supervise your dog, especially around the swimming pond.
  • There is no separate small dog area—small dog owners should take extra caution.
  • Check park maintenance days before planning your trip.

🌟 What Visitors Are Saying

⭐ Rated 4.8/5 by dog owners!

“My dog adores running off-leash here! Tons of space and a beautiful setting.” – Tony N.

“Best dog park in Illinois. The pond and trails make it a dog paradise.” – Lynn

“Huge, secure, and lots of fun for both dogs and owners!” – Andy

🐾 Nearby Dog Parks to Explore

  • Lakewood Dog Park (Wauconda, IL) – 66 acres with varied terrain.
  • Duck Farm Dog Park (Lake Villa, IL) – Great trails and open spaces.
  • Independence Grove Dog Park (Libertyville, IL) – Water access, but not fully fenced.

📝 Is Prairie Wolf Dog Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! For anyone searching for a safe, spacious, and scenic off-leash dog park near Chicago, Prairie Wolf Dog Park is the perfect destination. With plenty of room to roam, a pond for swimming, and a peaceful natural setting, it’s a favorite among dog owners across Illinois.

Whether you’re stopping by from Morton Grove, the city, or just around Lake County, this park offers everything your dog needs for a day of exercise and fun.

✅ Final Checklist Before You Go:

✔️ Purchase your daily or annual permit online.
✔️ Pack towels, water, and waste bags.
✔️ Wear mud-friendly shoes.
✔️ Keep a close eye on your pup, especially near the pond.

For more details, visit the official Lake County Forest Preserves website or call (847) 367-6640.