Hudson is a pretty lucky dog.

"All the dogs of all sizes get to play together, from little Chihuahuas to Great Danes," said dog owner Melanie Guy.

At 131 pounds, Hudson goes where he wants to.

"The dogs love to socialize here and we get to socialize with a lot of our friends," Guy said.

Four times a week, Hudson's human will pack him in the car and make the 90-minute round trip to Lake Baldwin Park in Winter Park.

All fenced in with plenty of room to roam, the off-leash park features wide open spaces, but it’s the lake that makes Lake Baldwin Park the place for dogs.

Joan Collins makes Lake Baldwin Park part of her morning routine.

In fact, Joan has a special van to transport her four pooches. And Bella, Yoda, Charlie and Cocoa wouldn't have it any other way.

"They can play, they can run free, they can swim," Collins said.

Yet, as I discovered with my buddy, Captain there's a dress code here.

Folks who come out to the park on a regular basis say, you need to wear...well, not your best clothes, because everyone is bound to get wet.

Bring a towel -- make that two -- and be ready to clean up after your pet.

Pet waste bags are provided. 

"We have a dog wash here too," Collins said.

It's something Hudson looks forward to.

"He's all worn out,” Guy said. “He just sleeps for the rest of the day."

Lake Baldwin Park is open from 8 a.m. to sundown daily.  There is no admission fee for people or dogs.

Lake Baldwin Park is located in Winter Park, just north of downtown Orlando, on Lakemont Avenue between Glenridge Way and Upper Park Road.

The park has facilities for humans too. Find details on the park's website.

Additional Tips:

  • Dog owners should not dress to impress.  Wear old clothes. You will get dirty.
  • The park has grassy areas, sandy areas and muddy areas.  Plan accordingly for your backseat later.
  • Bring several towels: a few for your dog and one for your backseat.
  • Some pet owners will wade into the water with their pooch.  Water shoes are recommended.
  • A dog wash station is provided free of charge.  Bring your own shampoo.
  • The parking lot is dirt.  Expect wet paws to track dirt into your car.
  • A picnic shelter and stand-alone tables are available.  Expect other dogs to visit you and possibly climb on the table.
  • Smaller dogs have their own fenced in area under large oak trees.   

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