Ford Park Fenced Dog Park on Banksia Street in Bellfield is a dedicated, fully enclosed off-leash run in the southwest corner of Ford Park. The enclosure measures roughly 130 by 35 metres. It has a level grass lawn, an all-weather perimeter path, agility platforms and a raised grassy embankment. The surrounding reserve provides two sports ovals, an outdoor gym, a playground and connecting walking tracks.
Ford Park Fenced Dog Park: At a Glance
- The Vibe: An active neighbourhood gathering spot. Local dogs meet for group play across the lawn and owners walk the perimeter path.
- Best For: Dogs that enjoy pack play and owners who want an all-weather circuit path for winter walks.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days inside the fenced dog park. Dogs must remain on a leash across the surrounding sports ovals, car parks and within 5 metres of playgrounds.
- Fencing: Fully fenced. Black chain-link fencing encloses the full perimeter. Double-gated airlock entries at the gates keep dogs from bolting into the car park.
- Parking: Free parking is available in the dedicated car park off Oriel Road and Banksia Street, close to the southwest enclosure gate.
Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Grass Lawn and Circuit Path: The enclosure features a central grass lawn bordered by an all-weather gravel circuit path. Dogs can chase balls on the turf or exercise along the perimeter path during wet weather.
- Agility Equipment: Council installed modular agility pause platforms, natural logs and boulder scrambles. Dogs can jump, climb and balance during off-leash play.
- Drinking Water: Council water stations with attached dog bowls sit inside the enclosure. Fresh drinking water is available year-round.
- Natural Shade and Shelter: Mature eucalyptus trees along the western boundary provide afternoon shade and wind protection. A raised grass embankment adds natural terrain variety.
For the Humans
- Bench Seating: Timber and metal benches line the perimeter path. Owners have clear sightlines across the entire run.
- Poo Bags and Bins: Two standard rubbish bins and poo bag dispensers stand at each entry gate.
- Public Toilets: None inside the dog pen. Public toilets are located across the wider reserve near the sporting pavilions and playground.
- Wider Reserve Grounds: Ford Park includes two sports ovals with night floodlights, an outdoor gym, a playground and the 3-kilometre Ford Park walking trail along Darebin Creek.
Insider Tip: The single enclosure has no separate small-dog area. Large dogs often congregate near the Oriel Road entrance gate. If your dog prefers quiet play, head toward the far eastern end of the run near the raised embankment. Keep your dog on a leash when walking past the sports ovals and playgrounds, as council rangers patrol the reserve.
The Final Verdict
Ford Park Fenced Dog Park in Bellfield provides a secure, fully enclosed run with open turf, agility obstacles and an all-weather perimeter path. The western tree line offers dependable afternoon shade and double-gated entries keep the car park separated. Dedicated off-street parking, waste bins and council drinking taps make it a reliable exercise spot in Melbourne’s northeast.
For more official information, visit the Banyule City Council website.
Ford Park Fenced Dog Park: FAQ
Q: Is Ford Park Fenced Dog Park fully fenced?
A: The park is fully enclosed with black chain-link fencing and double-gated airlock entries.
Q: Is there drinking water for dogs on-site?
A: Council water taps with attached ground bowls are located inside the fenced dog park.
Q: Are there public toilets at Ford Park?
A: There are no toilets inside the dog enclosure. Public toilets are available in the wider park near the sports pavilions and playground.
