A hidden Gem in Chino, CA
33.928688 , -117.65526
Panda knows that on Saturday he gets a walk during the morning. Usually… Today I had a Web Development project deadline. Panda must sense this urgency because all morning he wanted my attention–giving me sad puppy dog eyes, telepathically telling me he was bored and wanted to go for a long walk. So, for lunch I decided to take Panda down the road, to a park I drive by but have yet to visit: Prado Dog Park.
I met the Manager Elena at a house turned to office–up the dirt driveway–several hundred yards off the Euclid turnoff. It cost $15. No Tap. Just Card or Cash. I planned for 2 hours which was plenty of time–especially since it’s Saturday and busy. FYI Prado Dog Park is closed on Mondays.
At Prado Dog Park, Panda stands in a shaded clearing surrounded by twisted roots and dense green trees. The sunlight filters softly through the branches, casting dappled light across the dusty ground. Her tongue hangs out as she cools off from running, her black and white coat vivid against the earthy backdrop. There’s a sense of calm and adventure in the air — the kind of place where the sounds of rustling leaves and distant birds replace the city’s noise. Panda looks content, alert, and completely at home in this wild corner of the park.
Quail?
Quail in Chino, CA? Another first! I don’t ever see quail around here, or anywhere else in the Inland Empire. Huh… Unfortunately I was in the Jeep and it was too fast to snap a pic. But they are in Prado Dog Park. Same with Egret. They are a rare site, but they seem to thrive in this park. I saw several of them.
There are picnic areas and well-pumped ponds all over. Prado Park cost $15 Per Person/$20 Per Couple. The facility has 585 acres of open ponds and fields for dog activities for: exercise, swimming, obedience training, hunting training, etc. They also provide a kennel boarding service, although those dogs looked miserable. They would much rather be playing in the open fields surrounding the kennel.
Crawdads!
You couldn’t hear them sing over the sound of gunshots form distant directions, but this was also another first. Crawdads in Chino, CA. At first I noticed claws, and then I noticed mud holes, and then I saw one hiding in plain sight:
There were also fish jumping from the ponds. Egret on the outskirts of the water, and plenty of dogs. Some dogs were friendlier than their owners. An intense woman pulled up next to my Jeep, let her dog out, and by the time Panda and I walked around the pond–back to the Jeep, she got all excited about Panda approaching her dog. She started yelling at me to get my dog away from hers. It kinda ruined the pleasant vide in the surrounding area. Why do people that hate being around strangers, camp and recreate right next to strangers? I’ve never understood that. I mean… It says first come, first serve and I pulled up and let me dog wander around when nobody else was around. I think she might have been drinking…
Plenty of roads to explore, even some that say to keep out!
Panda loves to explore new places just as much as I do!
Old walls or foundations from long ago. Now people just use the space as a parking lot and campsite. It’s amazing that all this is right in my back yard. I had no idea. Which was basically the reason for this site in the first place. To discover places on the road, whether you are traveling, or exploring something new close by.
Back Home
It was nice to step into such a different environment so close to home. Panda naps under the desk of my office as I type this. Tired from this two hour lunch break.
Prado Dog Park, Chino, California
Tucked inside the expansive Prado Regional Park in Chino, California, the Prado Dog Park is a favorite stop for locals and travelers exploring the Inland Empire with their dogs. With wide-open spaces, mountain views, and a calm suburban setting, it’s an ideal first-time destination for anyone wanting a safe, scenic place for their pup to play off-leash.
The Experience
The dog park sits within the larger Prado Park grounds — a huge regional recreation area known for its fishing lake, picnic areas, and archery range. The dog park itself is fenced, shaded, and divided into two areas for large and small dogs. The terrain is mostly grass and dirt, with plenty of room for running and socializing.
Benches and shade trees give pet owners a place to relax while their dogs play. There are waste stations, water fountains, and parking nearby, making it convenient even for short visits. You’ll often find friendly regulars here — a mix of locals and travelers heading to or from nearby camping areas or Chino Hills State Park.
Getting There
From downtown Chino, take Euclid Avenue south to El Prado Road, then follow signs for Prado Regional Park. Once inside the park entrance, follow the road toward the recreation areas — the dog park is clearly marked near the front parking area.
Address: 16700 S. Euclid Ave, Chino, CA 91708
Coordinates: 33°55′43.3″ N, 117°39′18.9″ W
What to Bring
- Leash and waste bags – Required when entering or exiting fenced areas.
- Water and bowl – Though fountains are available, summer heat can dry them up quickly.
- Towel or blanket – The park can get dusty or muddy depending on recent weather.
- Treats and toys – Most dogs love the open space, but bringing a ball or frisbee adds to the fun.
- Shade gear – A hat or small umbrella is smart if you’re staying long during midday hours.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon are the most comfortable times, especially in warmer months when temperatures rise quickly. Spring and fall offer the best mix of mild weather and active dogs, while weekends tend to draw larger crowds.
Quick Facts
- Lat/Lng: 33.928688 , -117.65526
- Nearest Town: Chino, CA
- Park Entry Fee: $15 for the dog park; Additional day-use fees apply for full Prado Regional Park access.
- Activities: Off-leash play, walking trails, picnicking, and access to nearby ponds and nature areas.