Hastings Cunningham Reserve Fenced Dog Park

Hastings Cunningham Reserve on Shepherdson Road holds Mount Gambier's enclosed off-leash dog park, the only fully fenced one among the city's nine off-leash areas. If your dog needs a contained space, this is the one to choose, with separate sections for big and small dogs and a double-gated entry. The park was built with help from local service clubs, and it shows in the community-run feel.

The rules

Dogs run off-lead inside the fenced enclosure but must be on lead elsewhere in the reserve, and council rules prohibit dogs in all playground areas. City of Mount Gambier's park rules cap it at two dogs per person, ask you to leave toys and food out of the park, and require supervision and effective control at all times. Free doggy bag dispensers are provided, and remove any dog that becomes aggressive straight away.

Pepsi: the agility gear is a fun warm-up, but the real win is the fenced small-dog side. Room to play without getting bowled over by the big units.

What is there

Separate large-dog and small-dog zones, agility equipment and tracks, a water tap and drinking fountain for dogs and people, seating and shaded spots, and lighting that makes evening visits work. The council asks that dogs are registered and vaccinated before using the park, which is standard practice but worth knowing before you travel with a visiting dog. A BMX pump track and the reserve's open grass sit alongside, and there is ample free off-street parking.

Getting there and parking

The park is at 80 Shepherdson Road, a short drive from the city centre. It is not directly on a major bus route, so driving is easiest.

When to go

The park hosts training sessions and community meets, so it can fill up. Weekday mid-mornings or afternoons are quieter, and if your dog is anxious, check the enclosure for large groups before going in.

Pair it with

For an unfenced alternative, the council's other off-leash areas around town suit dogs with solid recall, and San Piero Coffee Bar in the centre welcomes dogs for the coffee stop on the way home.

More options are on the South Australia dog parks guide and the Mount Gambier destination page.