Heatherton Off Leash Dog Park

Heatherton Off Leash Dog Park sits at 1 Ireland Road, Clayton South, adjacent to Spring Valley Golf Course in the City of Kingston. The defining feature is a large, open, unfenced natural grass space where dogs can run off-leash, making it best suited to owners whose dogs have reliable recall.

The rules. Dogs may be off-leash in the open grass area but must be under effective voice control at all times. The 10-metre rule applies: dogs must be leashed within 10 metres of the Monster Park playground, BBQ facilities, and picnic areas. You must pick up after your dog, and bring your own waste bags in case the bins are full. Dogs must not chase wildlife or approach other park users without permission.

What's there. The park goes well beyond bare grass. There is a significant children's playground called Monster Park, a half-court basketball court, picnic shelters, BBQ facilities, public toilets, seating, and water taps suitable for filling dog bowls. Accessible paved paths run through the grounds for walkers, and accessible parking is provided.

Getting there. A dedicated parking lot sits off Ireland Road. The park is easily reached from surrounding arterial roads including Heatherton Road, Springvale Road, and Tootal Road.

Watch-outs. The off-leash area is vast but not fully fenced, so a dog with poor recall could reach the boundary quickly. Snakes are a reported risk in warmer months, so keep dogs on the paths and out of long grass during summer visits.

Nearby with the dogs. Make a day of it with a coffee stop at Café Vita et flores in Springvale or The Tradesman Cafe in Moorabbin, both a short drive away.

When to go. Weekends and late weekday afternoons from roughly 4 to 6 PM are the busiest windows. Tuesday mornings and Wednesday nights are typically the quietest. If your dog is nervous or easily overwhelmed, aim for a weekday morning walk to avoid the weekend crowd entirely. Good for confident, well-socialised dogs with reliable recall and owners who prefer space over structure.

Sources

• Heatherton Park - City of Kingston · kingston.vic.gov.au

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