Yarra Ranges Council
Yarra Ranges Off-Leash Dog Parks & Reserves
Located just 45km east of the Melbourne CBD, the Yarra Ranges offers dog parks known for their stunning natural settings, from the misty forests of Belgrave to the open river plains of Yarra Glen. Whether you need an agility course for a high-energy dog or a quiet bushland trail for a “sniffari,” the region offers incredible variety. For official maps and rules, check the Yarra Ranges Council website, or explore our 2026 guide below.
Yarra Ranges Guide
Top Feature Parks (Agility & Space)
These parks are destination-worthy, offering specialized equipment or massive open spaces for a serious run.
Wesburn Park (Wesburn): A busy community hub featuring agility equipment. It’s partially fenced and very popular with active dogs. Note: Shared space with horses nearby.
- Belgrave Lake Park: A scenic reserve with natural agility elements like logs and tunnels. Strict rules protect the creek’s platypus habitat. Explore Belgrave Lake.
- Yarra Glen Recreation Reserve: A premier spot offering a massive 1km run and legal river swimming access. Check Yarra Glen.
- Don Road Reserve (Healesville): Features a dedicated off-leash lawn opposite the lake. Great for a run while the family fishes (leash required near water). View Don Road.
Scenic Reserves & Bushland
For nature lovers, these unfenced reserves offer beautiful walking trails and stunning views.
Kalorama Memorial Reserve: Offers sweeping views over the Silvan Reservoir. The West Side is a designated off-leash zone perfect for a scenic “sniffari.”
- Minak Reserve (Selby): An ancient rainforest walk with ferns and towering gums. Wildlife risk: Keep high-prey dogs leashed. See Minak Reserve.
- Retarding Basin (Mooroolbark): A rugged, wild adventure space with creeks and billabongs. No amenities, but great for exploration. View Retarding Basin.
- Wandin East Reserve: A unique bushland pocket with gravel walking tracks. Perfect for a quiet, natural stroll. Check Wandin East.
Local Utility Parks (Quick Stops)
Convenient spots for a quick toilet break or run for locals.
- Elizabeth Bridge Reserve (Kilsyth): High-amenity park with partial “U-shape” fencing. Note: Timed access on the oval. View Elizabeth Bridge.
- Balcombe Reserve (Mooroolbark): A massive, quiet grassy bowl. No amenities, but great visibility. See Balcombe Reserve.
- Seville Rec Reserve: A busy district hub. The dog zone is partially fenced near the road. Check Seville Reserve.
Yarra Ranges Dog Parks: FAQ
Q: Are there any fenced dog parks in the Yarra Ranges?
A: Fully fenced parks are rare. Most are “partially fenced” (like Wesburn and Seville) or rely on natural boundaries. Always check the specific park guide for fencing details.
Q: Can dogs swim in the rivers?
A: Yes, at specific spots like Yarra Glen Recreation Reserve. However, many creeks (like at Belgrave Lake Park) are protected Platypus habitats where swimming is discouraged.
Q: Where can I find agility equipment?
A: Wesburn Park and Belgrave Lake Park both feature agility obstacles like jumps, tunnels, and logs for enrichment.
