Dog running happily in an open fenced dog park

Oakland, Iowa

Paws Foundation Space

A first look at what we believe this site should be — open space, shared amenities, and a gathering place for every neighbor and their dogs.

The vision

More than a dog park

The Paws Community Foundation park is designed to be Oakland's backyard — a multi-use green space where dogs run free, neighbors linger, and the community comes alive. We are working with local planners and volunteers to design something that serves Oakland for generations.

The site spans approximately 1.5 acres located behind Paws & Pasture, Inc in Oakland.  The plan is to have dedicated zones for off-leash play, a shaded pavilion, a farmers market pad, and a looping walking trail connecting it all.

Aerial view of a community park and green space

Park features

What's included

Off-Leash Play Area

Off-Leash Play Area

Fully fenced and divided into large-dog and small-dog zones, with water stations, benches, and shade trees throughout. Dogs of all sizes can run, wrestle, and socialize safely.

Community Pavilion

Community Pavilion

A covered open-air structure with picnic tables, electrical hookups, and space for events. Available for community gatherings, birthday parties, and neighborhood meetings.

Farmers & Vendor Market Space

Farmers & Vendor Market Space

A dedicated hardscape pad with utility hookups designed for regular markets. Local growers, makers, and food vendors will have a permanent, purpose-built home in Oakland.

Walking Trail

Walking Trail

A quarter-mile loop of paved and natural-surface path winding through the park's green space — perfect for a morning walk, a cool-down lap, or just enjoying Oakland's outdoors.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Will the park be free to use?

Yes — always. The park will be free and open to all Oakland residents and their dogs. There are no membership fees or entry costs.

Where exactly is the park located?

The site is located right behind Paws & Pasture, in Oakland, Iowa. We'll publish the exact address once we get one.

When will it open?

Our target is 2027–2028, depending on how quickly we are able to secure funding.  Follow our progress on the homepage or sign up for updates.

Can I reserve the pavilion?

Yes. Once the park opens, the pavilion will be available for community reservations — birthdays, club meetings, neighborhood events, and more. Details will be announced closer to opening.

How can I help?

Donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word. Every contribution — financial or otherwise — moves Oakland closer to opening day.

Help us get there faster

Every dollar donated moves Oakland one step closer to breaking ground. See how your gift makes a difference.

Paws Community Foundation

Building a place where every dog — and every neighbor — belongs. Oakland, Iowa.

Contact

Oakland, Iowa

[email protected]

Paws Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a dog park and community space for Oakland, Iowa.

© 2026 Paws Community Foundation. All rights reserved.

Oakland, Iowa