Kooindah Park Off-Lead Dog Exercise Area in Lemon Tree Passage is a beautiful, open spot right on the water with heaps of room for a proper run. It is a 24/7 off-leash park in a perfect location, offering great views and handy features for a family day out. Just keep in mind that this is a completely unfenced area, so it’s really important that your pup has a good recall before you let them off the lead.
Kooindah Park: At a Glance
- 🐾 The Vibe: Breezy, open, and natural. It feels more like a scenic reserve than a typical dog park.
- 🐕 Best For: Dogs that love the water and owners who want to combine a park run with a coastal stroll.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 hours a day.
- Fencing: Completely Unfenced. It is open to the waterfront and the surrounding streets.
- 🅿️ Parking: Easy. There is a dedicated car park right at the reserve entrance.
Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Splash Time: The park is right on the foreshore, so your dog can wander down for a paddle or a proper swim in the calm water.
- Wide Grass Area: There is a massive patch of flat grass that is perfect for throwing a ball and letting the dogs hit top speed.
- Natural Smells: Being a coastal reserve, there are heaps of natural bushes and trees around the edges for dogs that love to sniff.
For the Humans
- Water Views: It’s a very relaxing spot to sit. You get a great view of the bay while the dogs do their thing.
- Playground Nearby: Henderson Park is right next door, so if you have kids, they can use the playground while the dog gets exercised.
- Public Toilets: There are public toilets available in the park complex, which is a big win for longer visits.
- Seating: You’ll find a few park benches scattered around under the trees for some natural shade.
Insider Tip: Since there are no fences and the road is nearby, keep the lead on until you’ve walked well into the grassy area. It’s also a good idea to pack a towel in the car, the shoreline is very tempting for a swim, and you probably don’t want a soggy dog on your car seats!
The Final Verdict
Kooindah Park Off-Lead Dog Exercise Area is a fantastic spot if you value space and views over fences. It’s quiet, well-maintained, and offers that rare chance for a doggy paddle in the bay. Just make sure your dog is reliable off-lead, as the street is open and there’s nothing to stop a “bolter” from wandering off.
For official rules, visit the Port Stephens Council website.
Kooindah Park: FAQ
Q: Is Kooindah Park fenced?
A: No. It is a completely open, unfenced reserve. It is best for dogs that stick close to their owners.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: Yes, public toilets are located within the broader reserve area near the playground.
Q: Can dogs go swimming here?
A: Yes, the park has direct access to the bay shoreline for dogs to enjoy a swim.
