Letty Towles Dog Park Ocala: Hours, Rules, Splash Pad & Map
Letty Towles Dog Park is Ocala’s dedicated public off-leash dog park inside the Jervey Gantt Recreation Complex. The 4.5-acre fenced park is divided into separate areas for small and large dogs and includes water stations, a splash pad, sandpit, concrete tunnels, benches and pavilions.
For a broader look at local dog-friendly recreation, see our guide to dog parks in Ocala, FL.
Table of Contents
Letty Towles Dog Park at a Glance
| Address | 2299 SE 32nd Avenue, Ocala, FL 34470 |
|---|---|
| Located in | Jervey Gantt Recreation Complex |
| Hours | 7:00 a.m. to sunset, Friday through Tuesday |
| Weekly closures | Wednesday and Thursday |
| Size | 4.5 acres |
| Off leash | Yes, inside the dog park |
| Small-dog area | Yes |
| Large-dog area | Yes |
| Water | Water stations |
| Dog play features | Splash pad, sandpit and concrete tunnels |
| Shade/seating | Pavilions, benches and tree canopy |
Open Letty Towles Dog Park in Google Maps
Letty Towles Dog Park Hours
The City of Ocala lists the dog park as open Friday through Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. to sunset. It is closed every Wednesday and Thursday so the grass can recover.
Those closure days are easy to miss because most public parks do not shut for two regular weekdays. If you are planning a midweek visit, check the day before driving over.
Separate Small- and Large-Dog Areas
The 4.5-acre fenced park is divided into separate areas for small and large dogs. This allows owners to choose the section appropriate for their dog rather than using one shared enclosure.
Dogs must be leashed while entering and exiting, then unleashed while inside the dog park according to Ocala’s published rules.
Water Stations, Splash Pad and Play Features
Letty Towles has more dog-specific features than a basic fenced run. The City lists water stations, a splash pad, a sandpit and concrete tunnels. These features make the park useful for dogs that enjoy more than open running space.
The splash area is for dog use rather than a public swimming pool. Outdoor fixtures can occasionally be unavailable for maintenance, so carrying drinking water is still a reasonable backup during hot weather.
Shade, Benches and Pavilions
Ocala’s tourism information describes benches under both pavilions and a canopy of oak trees. That gives owners more shade options than an exposed open-field dog park.
Shade helps with comfort but does not remove heat risk. Early or later visits are still sensible during the hottest parts of the year.
Important Letty Towles Dog Park Rules
Ocala publishes a detailed rule list. Several requirements are stricter than what visitors may expect at a general dog park:
- Dogs must have a current rabies vaccination tag.
- Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting and unleashed while in the park.
- Owners must stay with and supervise their dogs.
- No smoking is allowed.
- People and dogs may not eat inside the dog park.
- Owners must fill holes their dogs dig and pick up dog waste.
- Buckle, snap and harness collars are allowed; choke and prong collars are not.
- Misbehaving or aggressive dogs must be removed immediately.
- Unneutered males are not permitted.
- Females in heat are not permitted.
- Puppies under six months old are not permitted.
- Children under age 12 are not permitted inside the dog park.
Review the City’s current Letty Towles Dog Park page and rules before visiting.
Dogs at Jervey Gantt Recreation Complex
Jervey Gantt is different from many other Ocala parks. The City says well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome on trails at many parks, but at Jervey Gantt dog owners are directed specifically to the Letty Towles Dog Park.
That means you should not assume you can use the rest of the recreation complex as an ordinary leashed-dog walking area. Follow the current signs and City guidance for the property.
Why Is the Park Closed Wednesday and Thursday?
Ocala says the regular Wednesday and Thursday closures allow the grass time to recover and remain healthy. For a heavily used fenced dog park, rotating maintenance time helps protect the turf and reduce wear.
Who Is Letty Towles Dog Park Best For?
Letty Towles is the clear public choice in Ocala when you specifically want off-leash exercise. It is especially useful for owners who value size separation, water, shade and dog-specific play features.
The stricter admission rules matter, though. Owners of puppies under six months, unneutered males, females in heat, or families planning to enter with children under 12 need to choose another activity instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What days is Letty Towles Dog Park open?
The park is open Friday through Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. to sunset.
Why is Letty Towles Dog Park closed Wednesday and Thursday?
The City closes the park on Wednesdays and Thursdays to allow the grass time to recover.
Does Letty Towles have separate small- and large-dog areas?
Yes. The 4.5-acre fenced park is divided into separate areas for small and large dogs.
Does Letty Towles Dog Park have water?
Yes. The City lists water stations and a dog splash pad.
Can children enter Letty Towles Dog Park?
Children under age 12 are not permitted inside the dog park under the City’s published rules.
Are puppies allowed at Letty Towles Dog Park?
Puppies under six months old are not permitted under the current City rules.
Before You Go
Check the day of the week before leaving home, make sure your dog meets the City’s eligibility rules, and bring a leash for entering and exiting. The official page is the best place to check for weather, maintenance or temporary closure information.
