A Local Guide to Dog-Friendly Water Spots in WNY
Every summer I get the same question from dog owners all over WNY. "Where can I actually take my dog swimming around here?" It's harder to find than you'd think. A lot of beaches don't allow dogs, and the spots that do sometimes have safety issues. So I put together this list of the best options I know of for getting your dog in the water around Buffalo.
Public Spots
Ellicott Island Bark Park (Tonawanda) is probably the most well-known dog swimming spot in the area. It's about 15 acres of off-leash space on an island, and your dog can wade and swim in the creek. The catch? In mid to late summer, algae blooms can show up in the water and they're dangerous for dogs. Always check for warnings before you go. When it's clear, it's one of the best spots around.
Ralph Wilson Park (Buffalo) has a swimming pool specifically for dogs. It's at 5 Porter Ave, open 7 AM to 7 PM, seven days a week. If your dog loves the water but you don't want to deal with creeks or lakes, this is a great option.
Gallagher Beach (Outer Harbor, Buffalo) is a nice waterfront hangout. Dogs are welcome on leash and it's right on Lake Erie with free parking. Swimming isn't officially allowed here, but it's a good spot to relax by the water.
Beaver Island State Park (Grand Island) is beautiful for a walk along the water but dogs can't swim at the beach.
Private Spots on Sniffspot
This is the part most people don't know about. There's a site called Sniffspot (sniffspot.com) where private property owners rent out their land to dog owners by the hour. Think of it like Airbnb but for dog parks. A lot of these spots have creeks, ponds, and swimming areas, and the best part is it's completely private. Just you and your dog.
Here are some of the best water spots near Buffalo on Sniffspot right now:
Cheryl's Private Beach Resort (Lewiston) has a fully fenced yard with an inground pool and even provides doggy swimming vests. Perfect 5.0 rating with 59 reviews. This one books up fast in the summer.
Denise's 5 Acre Park (Elma) has access to Cazenovia Creek where your dog can wade and splash. 5 acres of unfenced land with a walk through the woods down to the water.
Dave's Private Dog Park (Lockport) is 2 acres with creek access. Right in my backyard, basically.
Matt's Private Dog Park (Middleport) has 5 acres with a large pond, a creek that runs three seasons, and trails in the back. Tons of room to run.
Streamside Eriegrove (Forestville) is 5 acres with stream access and almost a perfect 5.0 rating from 53 reviews. A bit of a drive but people love it.
Winter Haven GSP Farm (Orchard Park) is 20 acres, partially fenced, with a 4.8 rating from 49 reviews. Great for dogs that need a lot of space.
You can browse all 27 water-friendly spots in the Buffalo area at https://www.sniffspot.com/listings/buffalo-ny-dog-water-parks.
One More Thing
I also have a secret swim spot that I take dogs to. I'm not sharing it publicly because I don't want it getting overcrowded. But if you send me a message, I'll tell you where it is.
Stay safe out there this summer. Always bring fresh water for your dog, watch for algae bloom warnings near any creek or lake, and know the signs of overheating. Your dog will thank you.
Emily
Tailor Mayde Photography
