Toronto Lions Park sits on the Toronto foreshore off Anzac Parade, at the northern end of Lake Macquarie. It’s an unfenced off-leash area, open 24 hours, 7 days. The one exception is the third Sunday of each month, when the Lions Club markets take over and dogs have to stay on the lead. The ground is grass under she-oaks and gums, and the water is calm and shallow enough for a paddle. Pelicans line up on the old jetty, and there’s a shelter, a tap and toilets for the humans.
Toronto Lions Park: At a Glance
- The Vibe: Town foreshore park a short walk from the Toronto shops. Families at the playground, boats on the ramp and pelicans on the jetty.
- Best For: Social dogs who like a swim. It also suits owners who want a coffee in town and a walk along the lake afterwards.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days, except during the Toronto Lions Club markets on the third Sunday of the month.
- Fencing: Unfenced. Low bollards mark the edge of the car park, and the lake is wide open along the other side.
- Parking: Large on-site car park, including accessible spaces.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Lake Swimming: On a still morning the water here is clear and shallow over a sandy bottom, so dogs can wade out a fair way before they need to swim. Parts of the edge are a rock wall, so pick a sandy gap to get in and out.
- Open Grass: There’s plenty of open ground for a run, shaded in spots by she-oaks and gums along the water. In a dry spell the grass goes patchy and dusty, especially under the trees.
- Other Dogs: Being right in town, it gets regular dog traffic, especially early mornings and weekends. It suits dogs who are happy meeting strangers.
- Drinking Water: There’s a water tap in the park. Bring a bowl.
For the Humans
- Market Day Rules: Dogs must be on the lead during the Toronto Lions Club markets, held on the third Sunday of each month from about 7:30am to 12:30pm.
- Shelters and BBQs: There are shelters with tables, BBQs and seating, some of it right on the water’s edge.
- Toilets and Playground: There are public toilets and a children’s playground with swings, slides and climbing gear. A boat ramp sits in the park as well.
- Poo Bags: None on-site. Bring your own. There are bins in the park.
- Wheelchair Access: The park and its amenities are wheelchair accessible.
Insider Tip: On market Sundays, come after 12:30pm once the stalls have packed up, or walk somewhere else that morning. Any other day, keep an eye on the boat ramp and the playground. Cars and trailers back down to the water at the ramp, and NSW law keeps dogs at least 10 metres from children’s play equipment.
The Final Verdict
Toronto Lions Park is the easiest lakeside off-leash spot in Toronto. There’s open grass, calm, shallow water and a tap, toilets and shelters close by. It’s unfenced and shares space with a playground and a boat ramp, so bring a dog with reliable recall. Remember it’s on-lead on market Sundays.
For more official information, visit the Lake Macquarie City Council website.
Toronto Lions Park: FAQ
Q: When are the Toronto Lions Club markets held?
A: On the third Sunday of each month, from about 7:30am to 12:30pm. Dogs must be on the lead in the park while the markets are on.
Q: Is the off-leash area fenced?
A: No. It’s an open, unfenced reserve that runs straight down to the lake. Only bring dogs with reliable recall.
Q: Can dogs swim at Toronto Lions Park?
A: Yes. The water is calm and shallow along much of the foreshore, with sandy spots where dogs can wade in.
Q: Is there water for dogs at the park?
A: Yes. There’s a water tap in the park, so bring a bowl.
