JV McMahon Reserve in Forest Lodge is a spacious, unfenced 24 Hours, 7 Days off-leash park in the City of Sydney. It sits at the start of the off-leash path network along Johnstons Creek, which connects to other parks and a dog swimming spot further along the creek. Reliable recall is essential, and there are no bins or toilets on-site.
JV McMahon Reserve: At a Glance
- 🐾 The Vibe: A spacious, social park that connects directly to the off-leash path network along Johnstons Creek. More of a starting point for a longer walk than a standalone park visit.
- 🐕 Best For: Dogs with reliable recall who enjoy a longer walk with off-leash running along the Johnstons Creek corridor.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days.
- Fencing: Completely unfenced, with open access to the Johnstons Creek path and surrounding streets.
- 🅿️ Parking: Limited free on-street parking on the surrounding residential streets.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Unfenced Reserve: The park is not fenced and opens onto surrounding paths and streets. Suitable only for dogs with reliable recall.
- Extended Off-Leash Corridor: The reserve connects to a larger network of off-leash paths along Johnstons Creek, leading to other parks and a dog swimming spot.
- Poo Bags: Dispensers are available on-site.
- Drinking Water: Water fountains are available in the park. No dedicated dog bowls on-site — bring your own.
For the Humans
- Night Lighting: The park is lit for evening use, which suits city owners who walk after work.
- Shaded Seating: Shaded seating areas are available.
- No Bins or Toilets: There are no waste bins or public toilet facilities on-site.
Insider Tip: Head north along the Johnstons Creek path from the reserve and off-leash access continues through to a dog swimming area further along. Pack water and poo bags — there are no bins along the corridor.
The Final Verdict
JV McMahon Reserve works well as a daily stop for Forest Lodge dog owners and as the starting point for a longer walk along Johnstons Creek. The night lighting is a genuine plus for city owners. The lack of fencing, bins, and toilets is worth knowing before you go, especially on longer visits. Come with a dog that has reliable recall and a bag or two, and the route delivers.
For more official information, visit the City of Sydney website.
JV McMahon Reserve: FAQ
Q: Is JV McMahon Reserve a fenced dog park?
A: No, the park is unfenced and connects to a larger network of open paths and reserves. It is only suitable for dogs with reliable recall.
Q: Is the park lit up at night?
A: Yes, the park has lighting for evening use.
