A roughly 15-acre off-leash island in Ellicott Creek Park — unique in that it isn't fenced; the creek is its boundary, with access over a double-gated footbridge. Dogs roam shaded paths and a 'dog beach' with multiple points of creek access for swimming.
Off-leash · seasonal
Off-leash right now?
Off-leash varies by season
See the seasonal timeline below — and the live map for the status right now.
Ellicott Creek Park lots; cross the Creekside Dr footbridge.
Good to know
Not fenced — the creek is the natural boundary, and the double-gated footbridge is the only access, so leash up before and after crossing.
One of the few WNY spots where dogs actually swim; a living-shoreline barrier lets pets play in the water with less erosion.
Closed every March 15–May 15 for turf, and lake-effect snow or spring flooding can shrink or close the low-lying island.
About Ellicott Island Bark Park
Ellicott Island Bark Park is a free off-leash beach in Tonawanda, New York where dogs are off-leash on a seasonal schedule. It's unfenced, with a creek to swim in. Size: Large (~15-acre island).