Ferndale Park Dog Off Leash Area at the Dalrymple Avenue entrance in Chatswood is a tale of two walks. It offers a simple, unfenced grassy patch for a quick off-leash run, acting as the gateway to the stunning (but strictly on-leash) Ferndale Park walking tracks.
Ferndale Park: At a Glance
- 🌿 The Vibe: Bushland gateway. It feels like the calm edge of the suburbs before the wild gully begins.
- 🐕 Best For: Locals mixing a quick game of fetch with a longer, on-leash nature walk.
- Off-Leash Hours: Open 24 Hours (Grass area only).
- Fencing: Unfenced. Open to the street and the bush.
- 🅿️ Parking: Easy street parking on Dalrymple Avenue.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- The Grass: The designated off-leash section is the grassy field at the entrance. It’s spacious enough for a run, but you need good recall to keep them away from the road.
- The Bush (Leash On): The adjacent gully tracks are beautiful but are on-leash only to protect the lizards, birds, and other wildlife.
- NO Water: There is no water tap here. Bring a bottle and a bowl, especially after a humid bushwalk.
For the Humans
- Zero Amenities: This is a “bring everything” park. There are no toilets and no seating on the grass.
- No Bags: No poop bags supplied. You must bring your own.
- Parking: Unlike the Chatswood CBD, parking here is usually stress-free along the residential street.
Insider Tip: The real magic here isn’t the grass—it’s the gully. Treat the off-leash area as a warm-up. Once the edge wears off, clip the lead on and head down the track. It feels like a rainforest, but wear sturdy shoes as it gets muddy and uneven quickly.
The Final Verdict
Ferndale Park is a great utility spot for locals who want nature without the drive. The off-leash area itself is basic and unserviced, but as a starting point for a bushwalk, it’s excellent. Just remember: off-leash on the grass, on-leash in the bush.
For trail maps, visit the Willoughby City Council website.
Ferndale Park: FAQ
Q: Is the bush walking track off-leash?
A: No. Dogs must be on a leash on the bush tracks to protect wildlife. Only the grass field is off-leash.
Q: Is there water available?
A: No, there are no taps. You must bring water for your dog.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: No, there are no public toilets at this park.
