Charles Allen Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Charles Allen Reserve is a quiet suburban off-leash spot in Croydon, a large open grassy reserve that tends to be calmer than the bigger Maroondah dog parks, which makes it a good choice if your dog finds busy yards overwhelming.

The rules. The off-leash area sits on the north side of the reserve and is not fenced, so dogs must be under effective voice control, in sight and within about 50 metres of you. Maroondah City Council requires dogs on-leash within 15 metres of the fenced playground, on shared paths, and when entering or exiting. Pick up after your dog; bring your own bags rather than relying on a dispenser.

What's there. Open grass with patches of mature trees give a mix of running room and shade. There is a water tap with a dog bowl, a covered shelter with a table, seating, a bin, a fenced children's playground on the south side and the Parkwood tennis courts on-site.

Getting there. The reserve is around 13 Sabato Street, Croydon, with on-site parking off Sabato Street and access via Dublin Road or Mt Dandenong Road. It is a short walk or bus ride from Croydon Station on the Lilydale line, with bus 670 stopping nearby on Mt Dandenong Road.

When to go. Weekday mid-mornings are quietest. It picks up early morning and around 5pm to 6:30pm on weekdays plus weekend mornings, though it stays calmer than the larger reserves. Because it is unfenced and open, solid recall matters here. Good for sociable dogs and owners who want a low-key local run.

Sources

• Charles Allen Reserve | Maroondah City Council · maroondah.vic.gov.au
• Off-leash dog parks and areas - Maroondah City Council · maroondah.vic.gov.au

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