Community Forest Fenced Dog Park in Mount Martha is a fully fenced bushland reserve on Nepean Highway that offers a rare off-leash “Sniffari” experience through native trails and dense vegetation. Just be aware that access involves a 350-metre walk from the car park to the gate, and there is no water or amenities inside the enclosure, so come prepared.
Community Forest Fenced Dog Park: At a Glance
- 🌲 The Vibe: A secure bushwalk experience where your dog can explore native trails off-leash behind a full perimeter fence.
- 🐕 Best For: Dogs who love to sniff and explore trails rather than chase balls on open grass.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (subject to occasional event closures).
- Fencing: Fully Fenced, which is rare for a bushland off-leash area.
- 🅿️ Parking: On-site car park available, but the gate is a 350-metre walk from where you park.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Bushland Trail Network: The park is a maze of winding trails through native vegetation, offering incredible mental stimulation for dogs who thrive on scent work and exploration.
- Fully Fenced Bushland: The entire off-leash area is enclosed, which is rare for a bushland setting and means your dog can explore freely without the risk of wandering off into the surrounding scrub.
- Snake Risk in Summer: Because this is genuine bushland, snakes are a real risk during the warmer months. Stick to the wider, well-cleared paths and keep a close eye on your dog.
- No Water On-Site: There is no water tap inside the enclosure, so you must bring your own water and a bowl for your dog.
For the Humans
- 350-Metre Walk to the Gate: The car park is on-site, but the entrance to the fenced dog area is about 350 metres away, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the stroll in.
- No Amenities Inside: There are no bins, no toilets, and no seating inside the enclosure. Pack in everything you need and take all your rubbish home with you.
- Occasional Event Closures: The park sometimes closes for special events hosted in the community forest area. It is worth checking the council website before you make the trip.
Insider Tip: This is a “Sniffari” destination, not a fetch park. Leave the ball thrower in the car because the bush is too dense for it. Bring treats and let your dog lead the way with their nose instead.
The Final Verdict
Community Forest Fenced Dog Park is one of the most unique off-leash experiences in Mount Martha, offering fully fenced bushland trails that are perfect for dogs with a high prey drive who need a safe space to explore. There is no water, no bins, and no toilets on-site, so bring everything you need, but the immersive bush environment more than makes up for the lack of amenities.
For closure updates, check the Mornington Peninsula Shire website.
Community Forest: FAQ
Q: Is there water available at Community Forest Fenced Dog Park?
A: No, there are no water taps inside the enclosure. You must bring your own water and a bowl for your dog.
Q: Is the bushland area fully fenced?
A: Yes, the designated off-leash dog area is fully fenced, which is rare for a bushland park.
Q: Are there public toilets at Community Forest?
A: No, there are no public toilets or any other amenities inside the enclosure.
