Dogs get physical activity, freedom with new off-leash area in Stony Creek Metropark

Stoney Creek Metropark in Shelby Township opened Huron-Clinton Metropark's first off-leash dog area, giving dogs more space to run and play freely.

This area is located in the park's Oak Grove Picnic Area and is accessible during normal park opening hours.

After feedback from the public, we now want a space that is accessible to all dogs in the park.

Dogs must be kept on a leash outside of the designated off-leash areas of Stoney Creek Metropark.

The new 3-acre space includes a water bottle/pet bowl refill station, unisex portable restrooms, improved parking, and his 3 parking lots accessible by van. A 10-foot wide asphalt walkway from the parking lot to the bullpen entrance is open to all visitors, according to a press release.

“Visitors often told us they wanted an area where they could walk their dogs off leash,” said Amy McMillan, director of Metroparks. "We are currently setting aside areas specifically for this purpose, and we plan to add more of these areas to other Metroparks in the future."

The project was completed with support from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund, and he was awarded $50,000 to help with the restoration. In addition, Huron-Clinton Metroparks contributed $144,563 from equity funds as matching funds, bringing the total cost of the project to his nearly $200,000.

“We are delighted to welcome all furry visitors to our space so they can experience it for themselves,” McMillan said. "However, when visiting other areas of Metropark, remind these furry visitors to train humans in proper pet etiquette."

Owners are required to keep their dogs on a leash when entering and exiting his roaming areas and other grounds and trails within the park.

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