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McLaren Park (Shelley & Geneva)
Excelsior / Visitacion Valley
McLaren's dog play areas are among the largest in San Francisco, with big fields and miles of trails. Most of the land inside the John F. Shelley Drive loop is open for off-leash exploring, and there is a second area at Mansell Street and Shelley Drive. Dogs must be leashed at the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater during events and near play and picnic areas. Parking available.
- Where
- John F. Shelley Dr loop; Mansell St & Shelley Dr
- Neighborhood
- Excelsior / Visitacion Valley
- Fenced
- No, open area
- Hours
- Most SF parks are open 5 a.m. to midnight; confirm on the official page
- Managed by
- SF Recreation & Park Department
- Official page
- sfrecpark.org
Rules here
- Off-leash only inside the marked dog play area; leash everywhere else in the park.
- No dogs on athletic fields, courts or children's play areas.
- Pick up and remove waste, and don't leave your dog unattended.
- Control excessive barking and digging; keep vaccinations and license current.
- Dog walkers: no more than eight dogs per person.
Closures for turf recovery, repairs and wildlife happen often. Check the official page or posted signs before you go.
What to bring
- Long training leash (15 to 30 ft): Practice recall before you trust a big open space.
- Collapsible water bowl: Fountains aren't always working. Clips to a leash.
- Poop bag dispenser: Park dispensers are often empty. Bring your own.
- LED collar light: Fog and early sunsets make dogs hard to spot.
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Nearby dog parks
- Bernal Heights (Bernal Heights)
- Glen Canyon Park (Glen Park)
- Balboa Park (Outer Mission / Ingleside)
- Crocker Amazon (Crocker-Amazon / Excelsior)