Sycamore Bark Park

For us New Yorkers who share our lives with beloved canine companions, finding a safe, engaging, and dedicated space for them to run and play off-leash is a top priority. Sycamore Bark Park in Mahopac stands out as Putnam County's first and a highly valued amenity for local dog owners. More than just a fenced-in area, this park is a thoughtfully designed environment where dogs can socialize, exercise, and truly be themselves, all within the beautiful setting of Sycamore Park.

Sycamore Bark Park is an approximate half-acre facility that prioritizes the safety and enjoyment of all its four-legged visitors. A key feature that sets it apart is the provision of separate, securely fenced areas for large dogs and for smaller or more timid canine friends. This thoughtful design ensures that dogs of different sizes and temperaments can play comfortably and safely, minimizing potential conflicts and maximizing fun. The park also includes a variety of amenities designed to enhance the dog park experience, from waste stations for easy cleanup to water fountains for thirsty pups and their human companions.

While some visitors from outside the immediate area might be surprised by its membership requirement, for us locals in Carmel and Mahopac, it's understood as a means of ensuring the park's maintenance, safety, and exclusivity for registered users. This contributes to a well-managed and enjoyable environment, making Sycamore Bark Park a highly suitable and cherished destination for dog owners seeking a dedicated off-leash space for their furry family members in Putnam County.

Sycamore Bark Park is conveniently located within the larger Sycamore Park at 790 Long Pond Road, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA. This address places it centrally in Mahopac, a hamlet within the Town of Carmel, making it easily accessible for residents of Mahopac, Carmel, and surrounding areas of Putnam County. Sycamore Park itself is a substantial 32-acre facility, with the Bark Park occupying a dedicated half-acre within its grounds.

Access to Sycamore Park is straightforward via Long Pond Road. There is ample parking available within Sycamore Park, which is designed to accommodate numerous visitors utilizing various park amenities, including the dog park. While specific signage to the Bark Park within Sycamore Park may require a bit of navigation for first-time visitors, following the main park roads and looking for the fenced-in areas will lead you to the Bark Park.

It's important to note that access to Sycamore Bark Park is for members only. To gain entry, a code is required for the gate. This membership system, while a point of discussion for some non-residents, is implemented to manage the park's use and ensure a safe environment. Members receive the necessary access information upon registration. For those unfamiliar with the area, or if the gate code system presents a challenge, local knowledge suggests that sometimes a leash handle or stick can be used to depress the inside handle for entry, but official membership is the intended means of access. The park is open seven days a week, generally from 8:00 AM until sunset, providing ample opportunity for dogs and their owners to visit during daylight hours.

• Two separate, securely fenced areas for dogs: one for large dogs and another for small dogs (typically under 30 lbs) or timid dogs.
• 6-foot high fencing for enhanced safety and containment.
• Waste stations stocked with bags for convenient and responsible cleanup.
• Water fountains designed for both dogs and humans, ensuring hydration for all visitors.
• Agility equipment, including play tubes and a non-working fire hydrant, to encourage active play and mental stimulation for dogs.
• Benches and picnic tables for human companions to relax while their dogs play.
• A hose for rinsing off muddy paws or providing extra water.
• A shed to provide shelter during inclement weather, allowing pups to still enjoy the park even when it's chilly outside.
• Regular maintenance by the Carmel Recreation and Parks Department to ensure a clean and safe environment.

Sycamore Bark Park is a member-only facility, which supports its operations and maintenance. This membership includes registration and the need to provide a copy of the dog's current Town of Carmel license and immunization records (if not already on file with the town). This ensures that all dogs using the park are vaccinated and properly licensed, contributing to a healthy environment for all park users. The park is managed by the Carmel Recreation and Parks Department, ensuring professional oversight and adherence to established rules for the safety and enjoyment of all.

• Dedicated Off-Leash Areas: Two distinct, fenced-in sections (one for large dogs, one for small/timid dogs) allow for safe and appropriate play among canine visitors.
• Secure Fencing: The 6-foot fences provide peace of mind for owners, ensuring their pets remain safely within the designated play areas.
• Agility Equipment: The presence of play tubes and other agility features encourages active engagement and provides mental stimulation for dogs, beyond just running around.
• Convenient Amenities: On-site waste stations with bags, dog and human water fountains, and a hose for rinsing paws demonstrate a thoughtful approach to visitor comfort and cleanliness.
• Shelter Shed: A unique feature, the shed offers a place for humans and dogs to escape sudden rain or cold, allowing for continued enjoyment even in less-than-ideal weather.
• Part of Sycamore Park: Located within a larger, comprehensive park, visitors can often combine a trip to the Bark Park with other activities available at Sycamore Park, such as visiting the beach, playgrounds, or athletic fields.
• Community Focus: As Putnam County's first dog park, it represents a significant step in providing dedicated recreational facilities for the local dog-owning community.
• Well-Maintained: Managed by the Town of Carmel Recreation and Parks Department, the park is regularly maintained, ensuring a clean and pleasant environment for all users.

Sycamore Bark Park operates on a membership basis, which serves as its primary "offer" to the community: a dedicated, safe, and managed off-leash environment for dogs. The membership fees are structured to support the park's maintenance, amenities, and security.

• Resident Annual Fee: $30 per year per family for residents of the Town of Carmel.
• Non-Resident Annual Fee: $80 per year for non-residents.

These fees, while a point of discussion for some non-residents, are standard for many well-maintained, dedicated dog parks that aim to control access and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and safety. The fee ensures that resources are available for waste bags, water, fence maintenance, and overall park upkeep.

To become a member, dog owners must register online through the Town of Carmel Recreation and Parks Department's Community Pass system and provide a copy of their dog's current Town of Carmel license and immunization records. This process, while seemingly bureaucratic to some, is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy and safe environment for all dogs. Occasionally, the Carmel Recreation and Parks Department might offer special events or programs related to pet care or dog training that could be announced to members, but these are not regular commercial promotions. The true value lies in the consistent, dedicated space provided.

Address: 790 Long Pond Rd, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA

Phone: (845) 628-7888

Mobile Phone: +1 845-628-7888

For all inquiries regarding Sycamore Bark Park, including membership applications, rules, hours of operation, or general information, the primary point of contact is the Town of Carmel Recreation and Parks Department. The provided phone numbers connect directly to their office, where staff can assist with registration and answer any questions.

Their official website (townofcarmelny.gov) is also an excellent resource. Look for sections dedicated to "Parks & Facilities" or "Recreation & Parks Department," where you can find detailed information about Sycamore Bark Park, download membership forms, and get updates on park policies and events. It's always a good idea to check their website or call before visiting, especially if you have questions about specific rules or current conditions.

For us New Yorkers, particularly those in Mahopac and the wider Putnam County area who are devoted dog owners, Sycamore Bark Park is exceptionally suitable and truly a local asset. Its status as Putnam County's first dedicated dog park speaks volumes about its pioneering role in providing a safe and enriching environment for our canine companions. While the membership fee and gate code might deter some casual visitors from outside the immediate area, for local residents, these measures contribute directly to a well-maintained, clean, and exclusive space where dogs can truly thrive.

The park's design, with separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, is a crucial feature that ensures all dogs, regardless of size or temperament, can play comfortably and safely. This thoughtful separation minimizes stress and maximizes enjoyment for both pets and their owners. The inclusion of amenities like waste stations, water fountains, and agility equipment further demonstrates a commitment to providing a comprehensive and enjoyable experience. As one reviewer mentioned, it’s a "Good place!" for local pups.

Moreover, being part of the larger Sycamore Park complex means that a visit to the Bark Park can easily be combined with other recreational activities, making it a versatile destination for a family outing. The ongoing management by the Carmel Recreation and Parks Department ensures that the park remains a reliable and high-quality facility. For any local dog owner in New York seeking a dedicated, safe, and engaging off-leash environment, Sycamore Bark Park offers an invaluable service, making it a beloved and essential part of our community's pet-friendly landscape.

Sycamore Bark Park

790 Long Pond Rd, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA