Richards Reserve Fenced Dog Park on Charles Street in Coburg North sits in the northwest corner of the reserve, behind the Coburg Velodrome. Opened in December 2018, it’s a big enclosure of hard-packed gravel and bare earth, with patches of grass, logs and sandstone boulders, and a separate quiet zone for shy dogs. Local regulars have made it their own.
On This Page
Richards Reserve Fenced Dog Park: At a Glance
- The Vibe: A busy, well-used local park with gum trees along the fence and the grassy velodrome banks rising beyond it.
- Best For: Every dog, from little ones who need a quiet corner to big dogs wanting a good run.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days.
- Fencing: Fully Fenced. Timber posts with black chain-link fencing and double-gated airlocks.
- Parking: On-site car park near the park entrance.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Quiet Zone: A separate area at the east end has its own gate, a steep slope, plenty of shady trees and a seat, so smaller or shyer dogs can play without being bowled over.
- Surface: The main run is mostly hard-packed gravel and bare earth, with some wood mulch and small patches of grass. It’s easy to throw a ball on, but it gets dusty in summer.
- Logs and Boulders: A corner of logs and sandstone boulders gives dogs something to climb and sniff around.
- Drinking Water: The main area has a black pedestal fountain with a dog bowl. The quiet zone has a tap but no bowl, so bring one if you’re using that side.
For the Humans
- Seating: A couple of seats in the main area, plus one in the quiet zone.
- Public Toilets: Available within the wider reserve for longer visits.
- Poo Bags: Not always stocked, so bring your own. Bins sit just outside the gates.
- Lighting: Light poles around the reserve and velodrome help with visibility for after-work evening walks.
Insider Tip: This is a busy local spot, so if your dog gets nervous around big groups, skip the weekend peak. A mid-morning weekday visit is usually the quietest time. The velodrome next door is steeply banked and open to the public outside of Coburg Cycling Club sessions, but keep your dog on the leash outside the fence.
The Final Verdict
Richards Reserve Fenced Dog Park in Coburg North is a dependable, well-planned choice. Full fencing, double gates, water and a separate quiet zone make it an easy pick for local owners, as long as you’re fine with a gravel floor rather than lawn.
For more official information, visit the Merri-bek City Council website.
Richards Reserve Fenced Dog Park: FAQ
Q: Is Richards Reserve Fenced Dog Park fully fenced?
A: Yes, it is fully enclosed with airlock gates to keep your dog secure.
Q: Is there fresh water on-site?
A: Yes, there is a fountain with a dog bowl in the main area and a tap in the quiet zone.
Q: Are there public toilets?
A: Yes, public toilets are available nearby within the reserve.
