Parks shape daily life in River Falls. If you have kids, a dog, or both, this guide makes it easy to pick the right spot for playtime, walks and weekend fun. You will find what each park offers, where dogs can go, and tips to plan your visit.
You will also see how these parks fit different neighborhoods and routines. That way you can explore today and plan for tomorrow, whether you are staying put or thinking about a move in River Falls.
At‑a‑Glance Snapshot
Use this quick view to jump to the best match for your family.
- Water play and big playgrounds: Glen Park; Hoffman Park
- Off‑leash dogs: City of River Falls Dog Park
- Easy neighborhood play: Brandan’s Park; Larson Park
- Trails and river scenery: River Hills Park
- Mixed kid play and walks: Sterling Ponds Park
Filters to consider: parking, restrooms, shade, leash rules, and stroller or wheelchair access. The City requires dogs to be leashed in parks unless you are inside the off‑leash dog park. See the municipal rules and licensing info on the City site: Dog License & leash law.
Top parks in River Falls for kids and dogs
Glen Park
Family flagship with playground, pool and splash pad.
- Large playground, seasonal public pool and splash pad; check current season dates and hours before you go.
- Trails connect to the Kinnickinnic Pathway and the Swinging Bridge for short nature walks and river views.
- Restrooms and picnic shelters support longer stays.
- Dogs must be leashed; expect posted limits around fenced areas and water features.
- Parking on site; paths offer good stroller access.
- Busy on warm afternoons; mornings and early evenings are calmer.
- Near downtown River Falls for snacks and errands.
- Best for: all‑day family play with water features and easy river strolls.
Hoffman Park
River Falls’ largest multi‑use park with something for everyone.
- Big open spaces, playgrounds including Tri‑Angels Playground, skate park, ball fields, volleyball and a nine‑hole disc golf course.
- Camping area and shelters make it a good base for group outings.
- Restrooms on site; plenty of shade across the grounds.
- Leashed dogs welcome on trails and open areas; watch for disc‑golf play and events.
- Ample parking; paths vary from paved to turf.
- After‑school hours and weekends can be active with games.
- Short drive to groceries and coffee on the main corridors.
- Best for: varied play and multi‑hour visits with leashed dog walks.
Brandan’s Park
Simple, updated neighborhood playground for quick stops.
- Compact playground updated in 2022; great for a short burst of energy.
- Open grassy space and benches for caregivers.
- Leashed dogs allowed along the edges; bring waste bags.
- Street or small lot parking depending on your approach.
- Quietest on weekday mornings; after‑school is popular.
- Close to residential streets and neighborhood walking loops.
- Best for: quick play for toddlers and early elementary ages.
Larson Park
Neighborhood green space with a playground and winter sledding hill.
- Playground, open fields and trails; ADA‑accessible features listed by the City.
- Shade from scattered trees; simple picnic spots.
- Leashed dogs welcome; follow posted signs near play areas.
- Street parking; easy in and out for short visits.
- Calm in the mornings; local families gather after school.
- Winter note: small hill used for sledding when conditions allow.
- Best for: relaxed neighborhood play and seasonal sledding.
River Hills Park
River and trail scenery for walkers, riders and leashed dogs.
- About 65.88 acres with hiking and biking trails along the Kinnickinnic River.
- Open areas and shady stretches; bring water and snacks.
- Great for leashed dog walks; pack pet waste bags.
- Parking near trailheads; paths vary in surface.
- Mornings are peaceful; evenings offer pretty light by the river.
- A short hop to daily needs along major roads.
- Best for: nature walks with kids who like to explore.
Sterling Ponds Park
Playground plus an 18‑hole disc golf course in a growing neighborhood.
- Neighborhood playground and the Sterling Hill Disc Golf Course installed in 2023.
- Mix of wooded and open sections; limited shade in some fairways.
- Leashed dogs allowed; be mindful of flying discs and yield to players.
- Street and neighborhood parking; stroller‑friendly in many areas.
- Best on weekday mornings; weekends can be busy with disc golf.
- Near newer housing and community paths.
- Best for: mixed playtime and a casual leashed walk.
City of River Falls Dog Park
Dedicated off‑leash space with separate small and large dog areas.
- 16 acres, fenced, with distinct small‑dog and large‑dog sections at W10225 County Road FF.
- Open daily dawn to dusk; benches, picnic tables, dog‑waste stations and a portable restroom.
- Bring your own water; no municipal water on site.
- City residents get a free pass with a dog license; non‑residents can buy an annual pass. Confirm current fees and rules with the City.
- Children under 12 must be with an adult; remove aggressive dogs and skip visits when a dog is in heat.
- Gravel lot parking for about 20 vehicles.
- Best for: safe, off‑leash play and social time for dogs.
Quick comparison & how to choose the right park
Start with your child’s age and your dog’s needs. Toddlers and early elementary kids often thrive at Glen Park and Hoffman Park for playground variety and restrooms. If your dog needs off‑leash time, use the City Dog Park. For a quiet walk with a stroller and a leashed pup, try River Hills Park.
Use this checklist:
- Do you need restrooms or shade for a longer stay?
- Is water play a must today, or is a trail walk plenty?
- Will your dog be calmer on leash around crowds, or do they need off‑leash time first?
- How much time do you have? Pick neighborhood parks for short stops.
- Do you need ADA or stroller‑friendly paths?
Example picks: Preschooler + small dog on leash: Glen Park morning playground, then a short river path stroll. Older kids who love variety: Hoffman Park for playground, disc golf watching and open fields.
Seasonal and safety tips for River Falls parks
- Summer: arrive early for shade and parking; bring sunscreen and plenty of water. Splash pad and pool at Glen Park are seasonal. Check current hours.
- Fall: enjoy leaf views on River Hills trails; watch for slippery leaves.
- Winter: dress in layers; try Larson Park’s sledding hill when conditions allow.
- Spring: trails can be muddy; choose paved paths.
- Always supervise kids, carry a small first‑aid kit, check for ticks, and follow posted rules. Pack pet waste bags and clean up every time.
Dog‑owner checklist & etiquette
- Before you go: current ID and dog license, 6–8 ft leash, waste bags, water and bowl, and proof of rabies vaccination for licensing. Solid recall for off‑leash use at the dog park.
- On site: yield space to children and leashed dogs, keep your leash short near crowds, and avoid high‑value toys or treats that may spark conflict.
- Skip the park if your dog shows heat stress, is reactive that day, or is not current on vaccinations.
For leash law and licensing details, see the City’s page: Dog License.
Local neighborhood tie‑in & moving considerations
Park access shapes daily life. Many River Falls buyers weigh lot size against walkability to playgrounds and trails, plus school access and the commute to the Twin Cities. Living near Glen Park or downtown can boost day‑to‑day convenience, while areas near Sterling Ponds or River Hills offer newer homes and quiet paths. If you want a home that fits your family and your dog, we can help you compare these trade‑offs.
Conclusion
The best way to choose a favorite is to explore. Try a few parks at different times of day and see what feels right for your kids and your pup. Ready to align your home search with the parks you love? Request Your Complimentary Home Valuation and connect with the Platinum Real Estate Team for neighborhood guidance and listings near your favorite green spaces.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed in River Falls parks?
Yes. Dogs must be leashed within city limits, except inside the off‑leash City Dog Park. Review rules and licensing here: Dog License.
Where is the off‑leash dog park?
The City of River Falls Dog Park is at W10225 County Road FF. It has separate small and large dog areas and is open dawn to dusk. Details: Dog Park.
When is the Glen Park splash pad open?
The splash pad runs seasonally, typically late spring through summer. Always check current season dates and hours on the Glen Park page and the pool page.
Which park is best for a picnic with kids?
Glen Park and Hoffman Park both have shelters, restrooms and plenty of space for a long picnic and playtime.
What should I bring to the dog park?
Bring water, a bowl, waste bags and your current dog license or pass. Keep an eye on your dog and follow posted rules for a safe visit.
