Wantirna Reserve Fenced Dog Park is a brilliant new spot for your dog on the corner of Mountain Highway and Burwood Highway. Newly opened in late 2025, this purpose-built dog park beyond the usual agility ramps and is designed with ‘nature play’ in mind, which is great for getting them to think and explore, not just run.
Wantirna Reserve Fenced Dog Park: At a Glance
- 🌿 The Vibe: Sensory adventure. It feels modern, thoughtful, and connected to nature.
- 🐕 Best For: Active families who want to combine a playground trip with a dog run, and dogs who enjoy climbing and sniffing natural obstacles.
- Off-Leash Hours: Open 24 Hours (Solar Lighting).
- Fencing: Fully Fenced. Dual zones with secure airlock gates.
- 🅿️ Parking: New sealed car parks with a turnaround bay off Mountain Highway.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Nature Play: Instead of plastic tunnels, the park features a landscaped “dry creek bed” with logs and rocks. This uneven terrain is fantastic for building your dog’s confidence and proprioception (body awareness).
- Separate Zones: A dedicated “Shy Dog” enclosure provides a stress-free environment for timid or smaller breeds, completely separated from the main high-energy arena.
- Drainage Swales: The park includes bio-retention swales designed to manage runoff, keeping the active zones drier in winter compared to older, boggy reserves.
- Walking Circuits: Internal paths allow you to walk laps while your dog plays, reducing congestion at the gate and keeping everyone moving.
- Hydration: Dual-tap drinking fountains are provided, featuring a lower bowl for dogs.
For the Humans
- Solar Lighting: The installation of solar lights extends the usability of the park into the evening, a huge plus for commuters during winter.
- Seating & Shelter: Small shelters and strategically placed benches allow you to supervise comfortably while staying out of the sun or rain.
- Access: The new car park design includes a turnaround bay to prevent traffic jams on game days, plus accessible parking spots for easier entry.
- Adjacent Playground: It sits right next to a massive destination playground (with a 5-metre slide tower!), making it the ultimate family weekend spot.
Insider Tip: The “Nature Play” elements (logs and rocks) are perfect for hiding treats. If you visit during a quiet time, use the dry creek bed for a scent-work game to mentally tire out your dog.
The Final Verdict
Wantirna Reserve Fenced Dog Park sets a new standard for design in Knox. It prioritises enrichment over simple exercise, offering a space that is as mentally stimulating as it is physically active. The integration with the huge playground makes it the best choice for active families.
For precinct maps, visit the Knox City Council website.
Wantirna Reserve Dog Park: FAQ
Q: Is there a separate area for small dogs?
A: Yes, there is a dedicated fenced zone for small or shy dogs.
Q: Is the park lit at night?
A: Yes, solar lighting is installed for evening use.
Q: Is there agility equipment?
A: The park features “nature play” agility elements like rocks and logs rather than traditional equipment.
