Eltham Lower Park Dog Fenced Oval and Off Leash Area

Eltham Lower Park sits on the corner of Main Road and Hohnes Road in Eltham, framed by bushland along Diamond Creek, and it is the north east's main off lead destination. What sets it apart is the choice of zones: a fully fenced southern oval for secure running, plus the always off lead open ground at Lenister Farm south of Homestead Road.

Pepsi: fenced oval when the gates are quiet, Lenister Farm when it is packed, both in one park.

The dog setup

The southern oval is fully fenced with gated entry, drinking water and dog bowls, which makes it the safest bet for dogs still building recall. The northern oval is not fully fenced and only opens to off lead when no sport training or games are on; during organised matches the ovals are off limits. Lenister Farm stays off lead at all times and is the escape valve when the fenced yard is crowded. Effective voice control applies everywhere, dogs stay on lead within five metres of shared paths, and dogs are not permitted at the Pines Picnic Site, Hohnes Hill Reserve or either playground.

Worth knowing

This is a busy multi use park rather than a dedicated dog paddock. Diamond Valley Railway runs its miniature trains through the park on Sundays, picnic shelters and BBQs handle the family trade, and the sealed Diamond Creek Trail passes through for cyclists and runners. Shade comes from established trees rather than structures. Sunday mornings in particular fill the car park early.

Getting there and parking

Drive in off Main Road near the Hohnes Road intersection; the car park sits within the sporting precinct and is open around the clock with the rest of the park. Eltham Station on the Hurstbridge line is a 20 to 25 minute walk away, or a short bus along Main Road.

While you're out there

The Diamond Creek Trail links straight off the park if the dog needs a longer outing. Central Eltham covers the coffee: Tea Pot Cafe has a dog friendly verandah and Second Home runs a relaxed courtyard. If you want a second fenced option in the area, Eltham North Dog Park is a few minutes up the road. More off lead ground across Victoria and around Eltham.