Yarra River Parklands (Loys Paddock) is a designated off-leash area in Burnley where your dog can run free in what feels like a wild paddock. It is tucked into a bend of the river in Burnley near the freeway, so you get a proper bit of open space that feels very different from your typical manicured park.
Loys Paddock: At a Glance
- 🌾 The Vibe: Hidden wilderness. A quiet, rugged escape from the concrete jungle.
- 🐕 Best For: Obedient dogs who love nature trails and owners who want peace and quiet.
- Off-Leash Hours: Open 24 Hours (Unlit).
- Fencing: Unfenced. Bounded by river and freeway wall, but open to bike path.
- 🅿️ Parking: No onsite parking. Park in Burnley streets and walk across the Gibdon Street bridge.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Natural Paddock: The “paddock” is an expansive lawn area framed by native plantings. It offers long sightlines for ball chasing.
- River Frontage: The park sits on a river bend. While access is possible, the banks can be muddy and steep. Swimming is at your own risk due to variable water quality.
- Snake Warning: The native vegetation and river banks are prime habitat for Tiger and Brown Snakes in summer. Keep dogs on the mown grass.
- NO Water: Critical warning: There is no water tap. You must bring a bottle and bowl. Do not let your dog drink from the river.
For the Humans
- Zero Amenities: There are no toilets, no bins, and no lighting. It is a “pack in, pack out” facility.
- Access Challenge: You cannot drive into the park. You must park in nearby residential streets (e.g., Gibdon St) and walk across the freeway bridge.
- Cyclist Hazard: The Main Yarra Trail runs right past the entrance. It is a high-speed commuter route. Keep your dog on a short lead until you are safely on the grass.
Insider Tip: Use the Gibdon Street bridge to access the park, but keep your dog on a tight leash while crossing. It’s a bottleneck shared with cyclists. Once you’re in the paddock, it’s a great spot to escape the noise of the city, despite the freeway hum.
The Final Verdict
Loys Paddock is a great choice for your dog if you are looking for a bit of a wild run right in the city. It isn’t fenced and there are no taps or toilets, so you really need to bring your own water and make sure your pet has a solid recall. Since the river and a busy bike path are right there, it is definitely a spot for owners who are happy to keep a close eye on things.
For biodiversity info, visit the Yarra City Council website.
Loys Paddock: FAQ
Q: Is there water available?
A: No. There are no taps on site. You must bring your own water.
Q: Is the park fenced?
A: No, it is unfenced and open to the river and bike path.
Q: Can I park at the reserve?
A: No. There is no onsite parking. You must park in nearby streets and walk in.
