Best Parks in DeSoto TX for Kids and Pets

By Steven Thomas

Introduction

Looking for the perfect place in DeSoto where kids and pets can both play? I’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Here are the top parks that balance family fun and pet-friendly features in DeSoto.

1. Les Zeiger Park

• Location: 405 Eagle Drive

• Why it’s great: Modern playground with shade canopies and fitness zones for adults (sniffspot.com, m.yelp.com, whirlix.com)

• Kids: Slides, swings, soft-surface play areas

• Pets: Spacious grassy zones—leash required but perfect for strolls

2. Grimes Park

• Location: 501 E Wintergreen Road

• Why it works: Sports fields (soccer, baseball), playgrounds, paved trails, picnic pavilions (ci.desoto.tx.us, desototexas.gov)

• Kids: Active play, wide open spaces

• Pets: Trails ideal for a family walk—bring water

3. Ernie Roberts Park

• Location: 515 E Pleasant Run Road

• Why it’s worth visiting: Community park with playground and pavilion (ci.desoto.tx.us)

• Kids: Traditional playground, open green areas

• Pets: Great for a casual walk while the kids play

4. Murphy Hills Park

• Location: 500 Alpine Drive

• Why it’s a hidden gem: Leash-friendly dog area praised in local reviews (ci.desoto.tx.us, bringfido.com)

• Kids: Neighborhood green space

• Pets: Perfect for off-leash play in less crowded surroundings

5. Roy Orr Trail & Townsend Park

• Locations: Roy Orr Trail – East Pleasant Run; Townsend Park – 1001 N Polk Street

• Why they stand out:

  • Roy Orr Trail has an accessible paved walking route for families (whirlix.com, ci.desoto.tx.us)

  • Townsend Park is regional, offering varied terrain and open space

• Kids: Rolling lawns, trails for exploring

• Pets: Ideal for longer walks and exploration

What to Bring

For Kids For Pets Water bottle, sunscreen, snacks, sunscreen Leash, waste bags, portable water bowl

Steven’s Picks

• Morning: Start with playground time at Les Zeiger or Ernie Roberts

• Midday: Grimes Park offers shade and snacks at pavilions

• Afternoon/Evening: Walk along Roy Orr Trail or Townsend Park to burn energy

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FAQs

1. Are dogs allowed off leash?
No. All DeSoto parks require dogs to stay on leash.

2. Which parks have restroom and picnic facilities?
Grimes Park, Ernie Roberts, Les Zeiger, and Townsend Park all offer restrooms and picnic shelters.

3. Any fenced dog park areas?
Murphy Hills Park offers a pet-friendly off-leash experience, though it's not a dedicated dog park.

4. Are playgrounds shaded?
Yes. Les Zeiger has built-in shade. Ernie Roberts and Grimes offer some shade around structures.

5. Are trails stroller-friendly?
Roy Orr Trail and Grimes Park trails are paved and perfect for strollers.