For dog owners moving to New Hanover or Onslow counties, the "fenced backyard" is often top of the wish list. However, in our coastal market, HOA restrictions and lot sizes—especially in beach towns like Surf City or Wrightsville Beach—often mean your best option for exercise is a public off-leash park.

Not all dog parks are created equal. In Southeastern NC, you need to navigate distinct differences in terrain (sand vs. grass), drainage (mud pits), and local regulations. Here is the insider assessment of the region’s off-leash landscape.

New Hanover County: The "Big Three"

1. Empie Park (Midtown Wilmington)
Located centrally near the Independence Mall area, Empie is the most reliable "urban" dog park.
The Terrain: It features plenty of shade trees and a mix of dirt and mulch.
Insider Note: Because it is heavily trafficked, the grass struggles to survive here. Expect dusty paws in summer and muddy paws after a rain. However, the separate small/large dog sections are strictly enforced by the regulars, making it a safer bet for timid pets.

2. Long Leaf Park (Formerly Hugh MacRae)
This is the social hub of Wilmington’s dog scene.
The Terrain: Almost entirely sandy soil and pine straw.
Strategic Advantage: The sandy soil drains faster than Empie, meaning fewer mud baths after a thunderstorm. The ample pine shade makes it bearable in July, but check your dog for ticks and "sand spurs" before leaving.

3. Ogden Park (North Wilmington)
For buyers looking in Porters Neck or Middle Sound, Ogden is the local go-to.
The Setup: It is expansive but lacks the dense tree canopy of Empie. In the heat of the day, it can be scorching.
The Warning: The large dog side is prone to flooding in the low spots. If it has rained in the last 48 hours, bring a towel for the car ride home.

Onslow & Pender: The Hidden Rules

1. Surf City Bark Park (Topsail Island)
Tucked behind the Surf City Community Center, this is a hidden gem for island residents.
The Reality: It is secluded and wooded. While beautiful, this is prime habitat for local wildlife.
Insider Safety: Locals know to scan the perimeter for copperheads, especially in the early evening or late summer. It is a fantastic park, but it requires more vigilance than a manicured city park.

2. Swansboro Municipal Park (Onslow County)
If you are buying near Swansboro or Hubert, this facility is top-tier but comes with administrative friction.
The Regulation: Unlike Wilmington parks, Swansboro requires registration. You must register your dog with the Parks and Recreation Department and provide proof of vaccination to get access.
Why It Matters: While an extra step, this typically ensures a higher caliber of responsible owners and vaccinated dogs, reducing the "wild west" atmosphere found in unregulated parks.

The "Beach Run" Alternative

Don't forget the ultimate dog park: the Atlantic Ocean.

Wrightsville Beach: Strictly no dogs on the beach from April 1st through September 30th.

Freeman Park (Carolina Beach): Dogs are allowed year-round but must be on a leash from April to September.

Topsail Beach: Distinctively dog-friendly. Dogs can be off-leash from October 1st through May 15th, provided they are under voice command. This is a massive selling point for buyers deciding between New Hanover and Pender counties.

Your Next Step

Choosing the right neighborhood often means finding one that fits your four-legged family members as well as your two-legged ones. You need to know which HOAs have breed restrictions and which beach towns allow off-leash winter runs.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we are experts in listening and communicating people's wants into homes that work for them. We can guide you to the properties that offer the best access to these canine amenities, ensuring your entire family feels at home on the coast.