McDonald Park in Casino offers a quiet, green off-leash area right on the edge of the Richmond River. Managed by the Richmond Valley Council, this unfenced space skips the busy playground crowds for a peaceful nature vibe. With its soft native grass and lovely river views, it is a highly relaxing spot for your morning walk.
McDonald Park: At a Glance
- 🐾 The Vibe: Calm, natural, and highly scenic. Perfect for wildlife watching.
- 🐕 Best For: Obedient dogs with perfect recall who won’t chase river birds.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Fencing: Unfenced. Open straight to the river and nearby streets.
- 🅿️ Parking: Easy street parking down near the river end of Fergusson Street.
Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- River Smells: Being right on the bank gives your dog thousands of fascinating new scents to explore.
- Soft Running: Recent ecological upgrades added heaps of native grass, making it super soft on active paws.
- Free Roaming: Without tight fences boxing them in, older dogs can wander and sniff at their own leisurely pace.
For the Humans
- Pretty Jetty: The marine jetty is a great spot to stand and look out over the water while your dog plays.
- Total Peace: Far removed from the screaming kids at the skate parks, it offers a genuinely quiet walk.
- Nature Hit: The council planted loads of native trees here, creating a beautiful backdrop that supports local birdlife.
Insider Tip: Because the park is entirely unfenced and sits right on the Richmond River, you must have complete voice control over your dog. There are zero council taps or bins here, so bring a water bottle for your dog and pack plenty of poo bags.
The Final Verdict
Mcdonald Park is a beautiful, back-to-nature alternative to Casino’s busy structured parks. It skips the security of fences and the convenience of water bubblers, but its peaceful riverfront setting makes it a highly rewarding walk for owners with well-trained dogs.
For more official information, visit the Richmond Valley Council website.
Mcdonald Park: FAQ
Q: Is Mcdonald Park fenced?
A: No. It is a completely open riparian zone, meaning your dog needs excellent recall.
Q: Are there water bowls provided?
A: No, the park lacks structured amenities. You need to pack your own water.
Q: Can my dog swim in the river?
A: There is river access, but you need to be very careful of local wildlife and water safety before letting them jump in.
