This Memphis Dog Park Was Just Voted the Best in the Country

By
Jalyn Souchek
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We knew The Outback was special but now it’s official. Shelby Farms Park’s massive dog park was just voted the #1 Dog Park in the U.S. in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and we couldn’t be prouder.

If you're one of the many Memphians who didn’t even realize this off-leash wonderland existed, you're not alone. When we first posted it on our social channels, we were so surprised by how many people hadn’t discovered the park yet. 

So it’s time to get your pup in the car and head to Shelby Farms Park's Outback Off-Leash Dog Park because this dog park is on a whole other level and your good boy or girl deserves it.

Enjoy some photos of my pup Rookie enjoying the park over the years!

two photos of a man and dog walking through woods and across plan at dog park
Jalyn Souchek

What Makes The Outback So Special?

Located in the heart of Shelby Farms Park, The Outback is 100+ acres of open fields, trails, and ponds all designed for off-leash play. It’s one of the largest dog parks in the country, and it’s free and open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset.

Here’s what you’ll find:

  • Tons of room to roam – Trails, shaded woods, open fields, and hills for zoomies.
  • Two large ponds – Even my water-hating dog loves to splash around.
  • Fully off-leash – Your dog can run free (as long as they’re under voice control).
  • Water stations  – Find a water bowl and filling station at the southern entrance
two photos of dogs playing in pond
Jalyn Souchek

Know Before You Go

  • Location: Shelby Farms Park, 6903 Great View Drive North, Memphis, TN. 
  • Access Points: Gates 11, 12 + 13 are located on Trinity Road and Raleigh-Lagrange Road on the northeastern side of the Park. 
  • Hours: Sunrise to sunset, daily.
  • Cost: Free!
  • Rules: Dogs must be well-behaved, up to date on vaccinations, and under voice control. No aggressive dogs, no digging, and be sure to clean up after your pup. Don't be that person!
     

A Hidden Gem No More

While we were surprised by how many locals didn’t know about The Outback when the award news dropped, it makes sense. This part of Shelby Farms Park is tucked away and doesn’t have the flashy typical dog park look. It’s more like a giant nature preserve.

Whether you’re a longtime Memphian or just discovering the park, now’s the perfect time to explore this nationally-recognized space. Bring a towel, some treats, and prepare for one happy (and tired) dog.

Our favorite post dog park visit thing to do is to hit the dog-freindly patio for beers at Meddlesome Brewing Company, located basically across the street.

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portrait of Jalyn Souchek

About the Author

Hey, I’m Jalyn Souchek! Director of Content for the I Love Memphis Blog and a full-time Memphis hype woman. I’m proud to call the 901 home, and when I’m not sharing the best of the city online, you’ll probably find me repping the Grizzlies, taking coffee walks down South Main, catching live music, posted up at a dive bar or brewery, or chasing down my next favorite bite to eat. Come explore Memphis with me. I’ll show you why this city is easy to love.

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Jeff

My dog love this park he live on the River but he like the pond and enjoys being with other dogs.

July 17, 2025 4:28pm

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