Friday, Dec. 18, 2009

Canine Cavorting in Myrtle Beach Area

By Ashley Morris -

If your four-legged pooch is your faithful travel companion, here are a few free, recreational dog park options in the Myrtle Beach area, including one in the works that may be available on your next trip.

Barc Parc Mallard Lake Drive, Myrtle Beach

This 11-acre outdoor park, located near The Market Common off Howard Parkway on the former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, opened in 2000. The fenced-in grounds are separated into a smaller dog area with structures such as ramps and hoops and a larger dog area that features a lake for some doggie aquatics fun. Shaded areas with picnic tables and benches are welcoming for pet owners. Hours are sunrise to sunset, daily (maintenance is performed a few days each quarter; dates are posted at the park). For additional info, call 918-2390

Barc Parc North 62nd Avenue North at the YMCA, Myrtle Beach

According to Matt Goyak with City of Myrtle Beach, this new 3-acre park is expected to open by the end of October, or in tandem with the grand opening of the neighboring YMCA. It's divided into a small and large dog area, with an actual small dog measurement at the small entrance to ensure dog size "compatibility." Features include dog fountains, lots of shade, trash receptacles and doggie doo-doo bag dispensers. Hours are sunrise to sunset, daily. For additional info, call 918-2390.

Dog Park in Surfside Beach North Pine Drive and Willow Avenue

Plans are in motion and the Surfside Beach Town Council gave approval for a 2-acre dog park to begin construction by the end of the year. Although it has received grant funding through S.C. Parks, Recreation and Tourism, the park's total budget park wasn't available at the time of this article's posting. For additional info, call 913-6111.