Brook Run Park: A Local’s Guide to Dunwoody’s Largest Outdoor Playground Near Atlanta

Brook Run Park is one of the most popular suburban parks near Atlanta, especially for families, runners, dog owners, and anyone who loves big green spaces with a lot to do. Located in Dunwoody, just north of the Perimeter, it offers a mix of trails, playgrounds, sports areas, and community spaces that feel quieter than in-town Atlanta parks, but still very accessible.

Address:
Brook Run Park
4770 North Peachtree Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338

Why Brook Run Park Is Worth a Visit

If you live in Atlanta or are visiting the metro area, Brook Run Park stands out because it offers:

• Large, mature tree canopy and shady walking areas
• Wide multi-use trails for walking, running, and biking
• One of the area’s better playgrounds for kids of different ages
• Dog park, skate park, and sports fields in one spot
• A more relaxed, neighborhood feel compared with busier in-town parks

It’s especially appealing if you’re staying or living near Dunwoody, Chamblee, Doraville, Sandy Springs, or along I‑285/GA‑400 and want a sizable park without driving into Midtown or Downtown.

Location, Parking, and Getting There

Where Brook Run Park Sits in the Atlanta Area

Brook Run Park is in Dunwoody, inside the I‑285 Perimeter but north of Atlanta’s city limits. It’s convenient to:

• I‑285 (Perimeter) – a few minutes from the Chamblee‑Dunwoody or North Peachtree Road exits
• MARTA’s Dunwoody and Chamblee stations – short drive or rideshare away
• Major nearby roads: North Peachtree Rd, Tilly Mill Rd, and Chamblee‑Dunwoody Rd

If you’re coming from:

• Midtown Atlanta: Typically 20–30 minutes by car, depending on traffic
• Buckhead: Often 15–25 minutes via GA‑400 or Peachtree‑Dunwoody / Ashford‑Dunwoody
• Decatur: Usually 20–30 minutes via I‑285 east or surface streets

Parking

Brook Run Park has multiple free parking lots spread around the park. Lots are typically near:

• The playground
• The dog park
• The skate park
• The sports fields and event spaces

On pleasant weekends or during events, lots near the playground and fields can fill up, so it can help to:

• Arrive earlier in the day
• Use a farther lot and walk the trail in
• Drop off passengers near the playground, then park farther out

Walking, Running, and Biking Trails

One of Brook Run Park’s biggest draws for Atlanta-area residents is its paved multi-use trail system.

Main Features

• Wide, paved trail loop suitable for walking, running, strollers, and recreational biking
• Mostly shaded by trees, which helps during hot Atlanta summers
• Gentle elevation changes – not flat, but manageable for casual users
• Connects different parts of the park, so it’s easy to build your own route

For many people who live in nearby apartments, townhomes, or subdivisions, Brook Run serves as their regular running route or an easy place for stroller walks with kids.

Tips for Runners and Walkers

• Early mornings and late afternoons are usually most comfortable heat-wise.
• Weekends are busier; weekday mornings or mid-day can feel quieter.
• The paved surface is smooth enough for wheelchairs and mobility devices, though hills may require assistance for some visitors.

If you prefer soft surfaces, you can sometimes step onto side grass or smaller connector paths, but the main routes are paved.

The Playground: A Family Favorite

Brook Run Park is often mentioned by Atlanta parents as a go-to playground outside the city core.

What to Expect

• Large, modern play structures with slides, climbing areas, and imaginative play features
• Options for younger children and older kids, so siblings can play in the same area
• Shaded seating areas and benches for adults
• Nearby bathrooms (check posted signs for open hours)

Many Atlanta families will drive up from neighborhoods like Brookhaven, Chamblee, and Sandy Springs specifically for this playground because it’s larger than many neighborhood parks and feels like a destination on its own.

Helpful Tips for Families

• ✅ Bring water and snacks, especially in warmer months.
• ✅ Consider a change of clothes for younger kids who love to get dirty on playground surfaces or grassy areas.
• ✅ Weekends and after-school hours can be busy; mornings on weekdays are often calmer for toddlers.

Dog Park: Off-Leash Space for Your Pup

Brook Run Park includes a fenced dog park, making it popular with Atlanta dog owners, especially those in apartments or condos without yards.

Dog Park Features

• Separate areas typically designated for small and large dogs
• Fencing for off-leash play
• Open space for running and socializing
• Basic seating areas for owners

This park attracts dogs from Dunwoody and surrounding communities such as Sandy Springs, Doraville, and Brookhaven.

Dog Owner Tips

• Bring water and a bowl; fountains are not always guaranteed or may be turned off seasonally.
• Pick up after your dog to help keep the park pleasant and avoid local complaints.
• If your dog is shy or needs space, quieter times tend to be weekday mornings and cooler weather days.

Skate Park and Action Sports

Brook Run Park’s skate park is a major draw for local skaters and teens from across the north metro area.

Who It’s For

• Skateboarders, inline skaters, and scooter riders
• Mix of skill levels, but more confident riders often gather in the afternoons and on weekends

If you have a teen in Dunwoody, Chamblee, or North Atlanta looking for a place to skate that’s more structured than parking lots or parking decks, Brook Run’s skate park is a frequent choice.

Safety Reminders

• Helmets and pads are strongly recommended.
• The surface can get hot in summer, so closed-toe shoes and hydration are important.
• Younger kids may feel more comfortable earlier in the day when it’s less crowded.

Sports Fields, Open Spaces, and Events

Brook Run Park includes a variety of open fields and organized areas that support sports and community activities.

Fields and Courts

While offerings can change over time, you can generally expect:

• Open grassy fields for casual games, pickup soccer, or tossing a frisbee
• Areas often used for league sports or youth practices
• Space for picnics and informal gatherings

If you’re searching for a place in the Atlanta area to toss a ball around with kids or practice soccer drills without booking a facility, Brook Run is a strong option.

Community Events

Brook Run Park is frequently used for:

• Festivals and seasonal events
• Outdoor performances or community gatherings
• Charity runs and walks that take advantage of the trail and open space

Before heading out for a quiet day, it can help to check Dunwoody’s city or parks information to see if a large event is scheduled, since parking and crowds can be heavier on those days.

Picnics, Relaxing, and Everyday Use

While Brook Run Park has plenty of active amenities, it also works well if you just want a relaxing outdoor setting near Atlanta.

Good Uses for a Casual Visit

• Reading or working outside on a nice day, especially if you live nearby
• Picnics with family or friends on the grass or at available tables
• Quiet walks after dinner or on weekend mornings
• Letting kids bike or scooter on wide paved paths under supervision

Compared with central Atlanta parks, Brook Run tends to feel less crowded on non-event days, making it appealing if you want space without driving far out of town.

Bathrooms, Amenities, and Accessibility

Restrooms and Facilities

Brook Run Park typically offers:

• Public restrooms near key areas such as the playground and activity zones
• Trash and recycling bins around the park
• Benches, pavilions, and shaded seating in several locations

Restroom hours and availability can vary, especially in the evenings, so it’s wise to:

• Plan ahead with younger children
• Bring hand sanitizer and basic wipes just in case

Accessibility Notes

• The main trails are paved and generally wide, which supports wheelchairs, strollers, and mobility devices.
• Some areas include inclines, so assistance may be helpful for certain visitors.
• Parking lots are spread out, reducing walking distance from car to your main destination if you choose the closest lot.

If you or a family member has specific accessibility needs, you may want to:

• Park near your target area (playground, dog park, or fields)
• Scout the route ahead of time during a less busy time of day

When to Go and What to Bring

Best Times to Visit

• Weekdays, early morning: Quieter, cooler, ideal for walking or bringing young children.
• Late afternoon/early evening: Popular with runners, families, and dog owners after work.
• Weekends: Lively and social, but more crowded, especially around the playground and skate park.

In summer, plan around heat and humidity that are typical in metro Atlanta. Shade helps, but water and breaks are still important.

What to Pack

Consider bringing:

• 🥤 Water for everyone (including pets)
• 🧢 Sun protection – hats, sunscreen, sunglasses
• 👟 Comfortable walking or running shoes
• 🧺 Picnic supplies if you plan to stay a while
• 🐕 Leash, waste bags, and water for your dog

For families with kids:

• A stroller for younger children on longer walks
• Snacks or a light meal
• Simple toys or a ball for the open fields

How Brook Run Compares to Other Atlanta-Area Parks

If you’re deciding where to spend outdoor time in the Atlanta region, here’s a quick comparison to help you place Brook Run Park in context:

Brook Run is a strong choice if you’re looking for a large, well-equipped park in a quieter suburban setting, while still staying within a short drive of central Atlanta.

Who Will Enjoy Brook Run Park Most?

Brook Run Park is especially well-suited for:

• Families with children wanting a big, modern playground and plenty of space
• Dog owners who need a reliable off-leash area
• Runners and walkers looking for a shaded paved loop near Dunwoody and north Atlanta
• Teens and young adults interested in skateboarding or hanging out at the skate park
• Residents and visitors staying near Perimeter Center, Dunwoody, or Chamblee who want an easy-access park without driving into the city

If you live in Atlanta or are visiting and spending time on the north side of the metro, Brook Run Park offers a practical, well-rounded outdoor destination with enough variety to keep both kids and adults interested for several hours.