Riverside Green Park Fenced Dog Park

Riverside Green Park's dog park sits along the Ross River in Douglas, on Townsville's southern bank, and it's one of the better-equipped off-leash spaces in the city: a large general run plus a separate small-dog enclosure, both fenced, set among big shade trees on the river corridor. Kangaroos are regular visitors to the wider park, and the river itself is the reason water-mad dogs end up here.

The dog setup

Townsville City Council's recent upgrades refreshed the small-dog section with new shade shelters, seating and a new entry, and the general area is a big open grass space under mature trees. Benches and picnic spots are plentiful, and waste bags and bins are provided. The crucial design detail is the river boundary: the enclosure is fenced on the park side but opens toward the water, so a determined dog can reach the waterline. Rocks-solid recall is the price of entry, and river conditions after heavy rain deserve a look before any swimming.

Max: fence on one side, Ross River on the other, and kangaroos watching me act a fool. Best afternoon television in Townsville.

The rules

Off-leash applies inside the designated zones; the surrounding parkland is on-lead territory. Stay with your dog and keep them under effective control, carry a leash, and leash up immediately if your dog shows aggression or an officer asks. Dogs must be registered and wearing their tag, female dogs in season aren't permitted, and picking up is compulsory.

Getting there and parking

The dog park area is accessed at 61 Louise Street, Douglas, with an alternative entrance via Freshwater Drive and free on-site parking near the Louise Street end. Bus stops on Angus Smith Drive and Riverside Boulevard are within walking distance. The wider Riverside Green Park adds a playground, sports field, walking tracks and restrooms, so leashed laps are easy to build in.

The vibe

Weekday mornings are the quiet window; weekends and weekday afternoons fill up, and locals say evenings are when the park is at its busiest and most social. The crowd skews friendly, toys get left about, and the small-dog enclosure gives timid dogs a genuine option rather than an afterthought.

Close by with the dogs

If your dog needs a fully secured boundary, Rossiter Park Fenced Dog Park in Aitkenvale has agility equipment and water fountains a short drive away, and Murray Park Fenced Dog Park sits in neighbouring Annandale. For coffee afterward, Absolute Cravings is a dog-friendly local fixture.

See more dog parks across Queensland or browse the rest of what's dog friendly in Douglas.