Knaith Road Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Knaith Road Reserve is an open, unfenced grass reserve tucked behind the Ringwood East village shops, popular with locals for off-leash running and fetch rather than a fenced dog-park setup. It sits at 9 Laurence Grove, a five to ten minute walk from Ringwood East station.

The rules. Dogs can run off-leash on the open grass, but must be leashed on shared pathways, within 15 metres of the playground and any BBQ or picnic facilities, and during organised sports or training sessions. Owners are required to carry bags and clean up after their dogs.

What's there. A handful of trees provide some natural shade, there is a picnic area with tables, a playground near the car park, and dog waste bins are provided on-site. Parking is limited to a small area off Laurence Grove.

Getting there. Access is via Knaith Road or Laurence Grove. It is roughly a five to ten minute walk from Ringwood East station on the Lilydale line, so it works well without a car.

Nearby with the dogs. The Ringwood East village shops on Railway Avenue are right behind the reserve, with a few cafes offering takeaway coffee and some outdoor seating, worth checking on arrival. Pet-friendly accommodation in the area is thin on the ground; short-stay listings on Airbnb or Booking.com for Ringwood East occasionally allow pets on request.

Weekday evenings and early mornings are the busiest times as residents walk dogs before or after work, with weekends moderately busy through the morning. Weekday afternoons are the quiet window if your dog needs more space or is easily distracted by others.

Sources

• Knaith Road Reserve | Maroondah City Council · maroondah.vic.gov.au
• Off-leash dog parks and areas - Maroondah City Council · maroondah.vic.gov.au
• Maroondah Council Dog Off Leash Areas - Dog Parks · melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

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