Canine Corners

The «big» dog park in Rockford, this eight-​acre park is about as good as it gets for local dog owners. While unfortunately small, the park is adequately stocked with a water pump, kiddie/​doggie pools, and dog poop bags which are scattered throughout the park. The people and dogs who frequent the park are friendly and seem to all know each other, or at least each others’ pets.
There are three separate fenced sections: the four-​acre main area which is a mostly open field (nice for throwing and fetching). The other four acres are comprised of two separate wooded areas with trails.
To visit the park, Rockford Park District requires registration and proof of rabies vaccination and $ 30 ($ 40 non-​resident rate); $ 15/​additional dog for a full season tag (January-​December), or $ 15 ($ 20 non-​resident rate); $ 7.50/additional dog for a half season tag (July-​December). However, a one day «pooch pass» costs $ 3 for one dog, $ 1 for each additional dog (reimbursed if you decide to purchase a full season tag) which you can purchase at the Park District website.
Overall, I’d recommend this dog park to any local dog owner without a big yard for off-​leash rumpuses. At least in my zip code, this is the best/​only place there is.