Community Forest Fenced Dog Park

The Community Forest Fenced Dog Park is a large fenced bushland off-leash area near Bruce Road in Mount Martha, opposite Balcombe Grammar. Unlike a flat lawn, this is a rustic forest of tall trees, dirt trails and a creek, so it gives dogs a proper sniff-and-explore adventure.

The rules. The whole area is fenced and fully off-leash, but it is bush, not an enclosed paddock, so reliable recall matters before you let your dog roam the trails. Dogs are strictly not allowed in the adjacent Briars conservation reserve. Clean up after your dog; reports suggest bins can be limited, so carry your own bags.

The terrain. Expect multiple dirt walking paths winding through forested areas, with a creek running through and natural shade from mature trees. A rotunda sits at the entrance.

Watch-outs. This is bushland, so snake risk is real in the warmer months. Keep to the paths in summer, avoid the peak midday heat, and keep an eye on dogs that like to nose into the undergrowth.

Getting there. Best reached via the Nepean Highway near Bruce Road. Parking near the entrance gate is limited, and the fenced area is roughly a 350-metre walk up a track from there, so factor in the approach.

When to go. The area is large enough to spread out even when popular. Weekday mornings are calmest; avoid the hottest part of summer days for snake and heat reasons.

Sources

• Mt. Martha Leash Free Community Forest - Walking Maps · walkingmaps.com.au

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