Mildura Fenced Dog Park (Rio Vista Park)

The Rio Vista off-leash dog park is Mildura's fully fenced run, set right on the Murray on Hugh King Drive between the Lawn Tennis Club and Lock 11. It has separate enclosures for large and small dogs, a riverside setting and a genuinely good amenity list, which makes it the town's go-to for off-leash play.

The rules. Dogs run off-leash inside the fence but must be supervised at all times and not left alone. The council sets a limit of three dogs per person, and dogs should be vaccinated, desexed and socialised. Leave aggressive dogs and very young puppies at home, pick up after your dog using the bins provided, and skip bringing human food or picnics into the enclosure.

What's there. The perimeter is securely fenced with separate large-dog and small-dog areas. There are water taps for dogs, sandpits and play features, shaded benches, and public toilets in the immediate vicinity.

Getting there. It is on Hugh King Drive, easy by car with parking nearby, and it sits on the riverfront walking and cycling path so you can fold it into a walk from town. At busy times use the tennis club parking and walk the short distance in.

Nearby with the dogs. The riverfront is lined with dog-welcoming cafes: Jessica Rabbit sits directly opposite, with Shippys Cafe and Bobby + Me close by along the river.

Early mornings and late afternoons are the social peaks, and weekend mornings are busiest of all. If your dog is timid, a weekday mid-morning or early afternoon gives you the quietest run.

Sources

• Rio Vista Off Leash Dog Park - Mildura Rural City Council · mildura.vic.gov.au

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