Benbenjie Reserve (formerly Bass Reserve) is a quiet, grassy pocket park in McCrae that serves as a handy backup when the beaches have summer restrictions. It’s a natural, scrubby space where your dog can enjoy a good sniff, but it’s very basic, think “quick relief stop” rather than “adventure playground.”
Benbenjie Reserve Dog Off Leash Area: At a Glance
- 🐾 The Vibe: Relaxed, quiet, and bushy. A local spot that rarely gets crowded.
- 🐕 Best For: Well-behaved dogs who stick close to their owners. It’s great for scent work in the scrub.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Fencing: Unfenced. Bordered by roads on two sides, so recall is critical.
- 🅿️ Parking: Easy street parking on Matthew Street or Bass Street.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Sniffing Territory: The reserve has clumps of trees and scrubby edges that are perfect for dogs who love to investigate smells.
- Year-Round Access: Unlike the beaches, this park is always open for off-leash play, making it a reliable option in summer.
- BYO Water: Warning—there is no water tap here. You must bring a bottle and bowl.
For the Humans
- Natural Shade: The trees provide some nice shade spots to stand or sit under.
- Basic Seating: There are a few unshaded seats, but no picnic shelters.
- No Amenities: There are no toilets, so plan accordingly. It’s really just a park for the dogs.
Insider Tip: Safety First. This park is unfenced and close to roads. Do not bring a “gallivanter” or a dog that loves to chase cars here. It is best suited for dogs that happily stay within a few metres of their owner.
The Final Verdict
Benbenjie Reserve is a handy “Plan B” when the beaches are restricted. It’s quiet, accessible, and has enough scrub to keep a dog entertained. But the lack of fencing and water means it’s not a top-tier destination. Use it for a quick run if you’re nearby, but don’t travel far for it.
For official info, check the Mornington Peninsula Shire website.
Benbenjie Reserve: FAQ
Q: Is the dog park fenced?
A: No. It is an unfenced reserve bordered by roads.
Q: Is there water?
A: No. There are no taps on site, so bring your own.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: No public toilets are available here.
