Bimbadeen Park Dog Off Leash Area

Bimbadeen Park is a 2.6-hectare semi-natural reserve at the corner of Templestowe Road and Airds Road in Templestowe Lower, best known for its valley of mature river red gums. Directly opposite Finns Reserve with views toward the Yarra, it is a quiet, low-key spot for a casual bushy walk rather than a high-energy dog meet-up.

The dog setup

Dogs can be off-leash here under Manningham City Council's effective-control rules, which means solid recall at all times and a lead carried with you. The leash goes back on in the car park, on paths beside play equipment, and within 15 metres of the playground, barbecues or any organised sport. Dogs must not chase wildlife or rush other park users, and you are expected to carry bags and use the on-site bins.

Worth knowing

Natural paths wind through the red gum plantings over mildly undulating ground that falls away toward Templestowe Road, with a small local play space and basic drinking water on site. The tree cover draws plenty of birdlife, so recall around wildlife matters if your dog is prone to chasing. The reserve stays quiet even on weekends; weekday mornings and Sunday afternoons are the calmest windows if your dog prefers space. For a longer outing, the adjoining Finns Reserve area has the more developed facilities and connects towards the river.

Max: red gums, birds everywhere and room to sniff. My kind of slow Sunday.

Getting there and parking

The park sits at the Templestowe Road and Airds Road corner, with street parking available nearby. Bus routes along Templestowe Road put you within walking distance if you are coming from the surrounding eastern suburbs without a car.

Close by with the dogs

Extend the day along the Main Yarra Trail from Finns Reserve to Warrandyte, which starts just across the road. Ted Ajani Reserve is another nearby off-leash option, and Aranga Reserve Fenced Dog Park in Donvale suits dogs who need a fully enclosed run.

More options are on the Victoria dog parks guide and the Templestowe Lower destinations page.