Downs Park Dog Beach

We don't own a dog but enjoy and appreciate the dog beach. Seeing the excitement of the dogs enjoying the water as well as the owners warms our hearts.

It's a relatively good dog beach in the area. Other dogs were nice. Decent sand, and surprisingly clean. The water was warm but kinda dirty. There was a bit of a fishy smell that would come and go. There's a bench in the shade and a few logs to sit on. It wasn't too crowded on a sunny Saturday afternoon. People seemed to stay for no longer than an hour, or two max. People are not allowed to swim - park's excuse is the water isn't tested. I saw one woman taking a dip with her dog, but she was the exception (and the only one in a bikini). Searching on the internet there aren't many options, but I want to find something better. It'd be crazy if there isn't at least one beach where owners can swim with their dogs.

Clean, well-maintained, some shade. Steps lead to the beach; no ramp. Nice, shady stroll from the parking to the dog beach. Fence ends at the rocks and can be swum around by a determined dog. Restroom near the dog beach entrance with outside "dog parking" since dogs not allowed in restroom. No hose-off area that I'm aware of so take a gallon to rinse. $6 cash to enter the park. Dogs were unleashed; no behavioral issues while I was there. As with any dog park, everyone is relying on good judgment of their dog's behavior and ability to be around other dogs without issue. If your dog is reactive, don't be that jerk that takes them anyway placing your dog and others at risk. Went on a non-holiday weekday and it was quite busy. Wouldn't recommend a weekend if you have issues with crowded space. My pup had a blast and that's what matters.

The actual dog beach is much smaller than I anticipated. I will choose to skip the dog beach when it’s crowded because of this. However, I am grateful to have this area for our dogs because they love to swim. The beach itself was clean and free of trash. There are sand flies so bring bug spray if they bother you. There are restrooms but a rinse off station would be a great addition outside the dog beach. $6 charge for the general public. An Anne Arundel park pass can be purchased and the park is free for veterans and Active Duty/their families, and $5 for disabled individuals. Within the park there are miles of paths, pavilions, picnic areas, and more.

This time of year is the most beautiful. Saw 2 deer ( nice buck and a Doe), a lot of tracks from various animals, and a bunch of people enjoying the park. If you're a Veteran you get in FREE! My Son and I had a great time.