H A Smith Reserve Dog Off Leash Area on Reserve Road in Hawthorn is an open grass park right next to the CityLink freeway. The off-leash area has no fences, and traffic noise from the elevated freeway runs non-stop overhead. It shares the grounds with a skate park, an outdoor gym and sports fields, so it suits confident dogs that stay close and listen to commands.
On This Page
H A Smith Reserve Dog Off Leash Area: At a Glance
- The Vibe: Busy and noisy. Skaters, gym users and dog walkers share the reserve under the rumble of freeway traffic.
- Best For: Dogs with reliable recall that ignore traffic noise, and owners who want a quick run on the grass.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days.
- Fencing: Unfenced. The grass opens directly onto shared paths, the skate park and nearby roads.
- Parking: Street parking on Gardiner Road and Reserve Road.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Open Grass: Flat lawn with plenty of room to chase a ball. The area is completely open to the paths, so watch for bikes and scooters.
- Drinking Water: A tap with a dog bowl sits near the path to keep dogs hydrated.
- Dog Socialising: Locals walk their dogs here across the day. It is an easy spot for a quick meet and greet on the grass.
For the Humans
- Outdoor Gym: Exercise stations sit right beside the grass. You can work out within sight of the off-leash area.
- Poo Bags: None on-site. Bring your own bags. Council bins stand along the paved paths for rubbish.
- Public Toilets: Toilets are open inside the reserve near the sports pavilions.
Insider Tip: Traffic noise from CityLink is loud and constant. Air brakes and sudden engine noise can easily startle nervous dogs. If your dog is sound-sensitive or bolts when scared, choose a fenced park further back from the freeway.
The Final Verdict
H A Smith Reserve Dog Off Leash Area is a straightforward grass stop for nearby Hawthorn locals. Freeway roar means it is never quiet, and the lack of fencing means dogs need reliable recall around cyclists, skaters and Gardiner Road traffic. Pack your own poo bags and use the open lawn for a quick ball throw.
For more official information, visit the City of Boroondara website.
H A Smith Reserve Dog Off Leash Area: FAQ
Q: Is H A Smith Reserve Dog Off Leash Area fully fenced?
A: No, the reserve is completely unfenced. Dogs need reliable recall to stay away from shared paths and traffic.
Q: Is there fresh water for dogs on-site?
A: Yes, a drinking water tap with a bowl is available on-site.
Q: Are there public toilets available?
A: Yes, public toilets are open inside the reserve.
