Tambourine Bay Park Dog off-leash area

Tambourine Bay Park in Riverview is a spacious, partially shaded harbourside reserve where dogs can run off-leash at any hour, day or night. The defining draw is 24-hour off-leash access combined with direct water entry to Tambourine Bay, making it one of the few spots on the Lane Cove River where your dog can swim on its own schedule.

The rules. Dogs may exercise off-leash throughout the designated area, but the bushland and children's playground remain strictly off-limits. Your dog must stay under effective voice control at all times, and you are required to carry a leash, at least one per dog. Cleanup is mandatory, and while bag dispensers are usually on site, you should always bring your own supply.

What is there. The park is a natural, open-space reserve rather than a heavily engineered facility. You get grassy areas, natural shade, scattered seating, and scenic water views across the bay. There is no fencing, so this is a reserve suited to dogs with reliable recall rather than runners prone to taking off.

The water. Tidal movement shapes the whole visit. At high tide, water-loving dogs get proper depth for a swim. At low tide, the mudflats are exposed, which some dogs find irresistible but which makes post-walk cleanup a significantly harder job.

Getting there. Street parking runs along Tambourine Bay Road, and the nearest bus stops sit on the same road. The reserve is also within walking distance for residents in parts of Riverview.

Nearby with the dogs. If you want a coffee after the run, Birdwood Cafe in Lane Cove is a solid option. For a completely different off-leash setup on another day, the fully fenced Conway Street Park Fenced Dog Park in Riverview is worth a look.

Aim for mid-morning on a weekday for the quietest walk, and check the tide chart first if your dog wants to swim rather than wallow. Arrive at high tide with your own bags and a towel, and the bay does the rest.

Sources

• Dog off-leash areas - Lane Cove Council · lanecove.nsw.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.