Margaret Lewis Reserve is a brilliant spot to take your dog in Coldstream because it was actually gifted to the community specifically for them. It sits on Ingram Road and offers a massive unfenced space with a 1.5km walking track and a gazebo. The locals do a great job looking after it, and there is even a “Ball Library” if you forget to bring a toy.
Margaret Lewis Reserve: At a Glance
- 💖 The Vibe: Community gold. It feels loved, shared, and welcoming.
- 🐕 Best For: Everyone. It’s spacious enough for runners and friendly enough for socialisers.
- Off-Leash Hours: Open 24 Hours (Unlit).
- Fencing: Unfenced. (Buffered by vegetation, but open).
- 🅿️ Parking: Onsite gravel car park.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Ball Library: A unique community feature where you can borrow or leave a tennis ball.
- Walking Track: A 1.5km perimeter track and 850m inner gravel path provide excellent exercise options.
- Water: Drinking water is available at the gazebo.
For the Humans
- Gazebo: A central shelter offers a meeting point and shade.
- Cleanliness: Maintained by volunteers (“Friends of Margaret Lewis Reserve”), it is cleaner than most council-run parks.
- Bags: Dog waste bags are usually well-stocked.
- No Toilets: There are no public toilets onsite.
Insider Tip: Even though it’s unfenced, the vegetation buffer is thick enough that it feels quite secure. However, it is near a highway, so keep an eye on dogs with a high prey drive who might chase rabbits into the bush.
The Final Verdict
Margaret Lewis Reserve is a special place. It proves that you don’t need a fence to have a great dog park if you have a great community. It’s worth the drive for the “Ball Library” alone.
For more info, visit the Yarra Ranges Council website.
Margaret Lewis Reserve: FAQ
Q: Is the park fully fenced?
A: No, it is unfenced but has good vegetation buffers.
Q: Is there water for dogs?
A: Yes, there is a tap at the gazebo.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: No, there are no public toilets.
