Dog park · Zilker & Barton Springs, South Austin
Barking Springs
About the dog park
- Water play for dogs
- Run by Austin Parks and Recreation
The spring-fed spillway just downstream of Barton Springs Pool, where people and dogs may swim together. It is listed on the city's off-leash map; signs warn about bacteria.
Rules
In Austin, dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet on the way to and from an off-leash area; at fenced areas, keep the leash on until you are inside and the first gate has closed. Off leash, your dog must stay in sight and under voice control, and one person may have no more than three dogs off leash. Dogs need a current rabies vaccination and must be spayed or neutered; dogs in heat and aggressive dogs are not allowed. Pick up after your dog, fill any holes it digs and keep children under 12 with an adult. Parks are generally open from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Austin Parks and Recreation)
Rules and hours can change, and dog parks sometimes close for repairs. Check the signs at the gate.
Getting there
- Location2105 Andrew Zilker Rd, Austin, TX
- NeighborhoodZilker & Barton Springs, South Austin
Dog-friendly cafés and restaurants near Barking Springs
- Casa de LuzRestaurantabout 0.5 mi
- Green Mesquite BBQRestaurantabout 0.7 mi
- El ArroyoRestaurantabout 0.7 mi
- about 0.8 mi
- It's Italian CucinaRestaurantabout 1.0 mi
Other dog parks nearby
- about 1.1 mi
Barking Springs: frequently asked questions
Is there a small-dog area at Barking Springs?
Our sources do not mention a separate small-dog area.
Where is Barking Springs?
Barking Springs is at 2105 Andrew Zilker Rd, in Zilker & Barton Springs, South Austin, Austin. The spring-fed spillway just downstream of Barton Springs Pool, where people and dogs may swim together. It is listed on the city's off-leash map; signs warn about bacteria.
Are there dog-friendly cafés or restaurants near Barking Springs?
Yes. The closest on our list is Casa de Luz, about 0.5 mi away, followed by Green Mesquite BBQ (about 0.7 mi) and El Arroyo (about 0.7 mi).
Sources
- City of Austin, Mar 2023
- Community Impact, Dec 2014
- Austin Parks Foundation, Apr 2025