Markham Reserve Dog Off Leash Area on Victory Boulevard in Ashburton is a massive, regional-scale precinct. It offers expansive flat off-leash areas bordered by Gardiners Creek and features a famous 5-star enclosed kookaburra playground (dogs prohibited inside).
Markham Reserve: At a Glance
- 🌟 The Vibe: Destination day out. It’s huge, popular, and has everything.
- 🐕 Best For: Everyone. Families, fitness buffs, and dogs who love open space.
- Off-Leash Hours: Open 24 Hours (Restricted during sport).
- Fencing: Unfenced. Open to creek and car park.
- 🅿️ Parking: Angled parking bays along Victory Boulevard.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Vast Grass: Huge areas for running and fetching, even when sports are on (there is space on the periphery).
- Water: Drinking water is available for dogs.
- Creek Access: Borders Gardiners Creek. Be mindful of wildlife and currents.
For the Humans
- World-Class Playground: The fenced “Kookaburra” playground is a destination in itself.
- Amenities: Features toilets, BBQs, skate park, and BMX track.
- Community: High-volume social hub with a strong sense of community stewardship.
Insider Tip: It gets extremely busy on weekends. If you want a quiet run, go early. Also, the car park fills up fast, so be prepared to park further down Victory Boulevard.
The Final Verdict
Markham Reserve is a 5-star facility. It offers something for everyone in the family. The only downside is the lack of fencing for the dog area, so you need good recall, but otherwise, it’s a fantastic spot.
For more info, visit the City of Boroondara website.
Markham Reserve: FAQ
Q: Is the dog park fenced?
A: No, the dog area is unfenced. (The playground is fenced).
Q: Can dogs go in the playground?
A: No. Dogs are prohibited from inside the fenced playground.
Q: Are there toilets?
A: Yes, public toilets are available.
