Princes Park

Princes Park is a large recreational reserve on Bambra Road in Caulfield South, with open oval space, mature trees and paved walking paths. It is well used by local dog owners, with off-leash access on the ovals when no organised sport is on.

The rules. Dogs can run off-leash on the oval playing areas, but only when no organised sport or training is under way. On the paved walking paths, within about 10 metres of the playground, and around the barbecue areas, dogs must stay on-leash. Waste bags and bins are provided around the park, and clean-up is enforced.

What's there. Paved paths for walking or jogging, public toilets, barbecues, picnic tables and shaded playground areas, plus water stations around the grounds.

Getting there. The park sits on Bambra Road between Glen Huntly Road and Neerim Road. Free street parking is generally available on Bambra Road, Dover Street and Hawthorn Road. The Route 64 tram stops directly alongside the park on Hawthorn Road, and Glen Huntly Station on the Frankston line is around a 15 to 20 minute walk.

Peak times. Weekends, especially Sunday mornings, are busiest with junior sport training. Weekday mornings and mid-afternoons are quieter and better suited to shy or reactive dogs.

Best on a weekday morning if you want the ovals to yourself. On weekends, plan around junior sport and use the walking paths as the fallback.

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