Riverine Recreation Reserve Fenced Dog Park

Riverine Recreation Reserve Fenced Dog Park is a secure off-leash area on Mudstone Street in Wollert's Olivine estate, split into a large grassy main zone and a smaller quiet zone for timid or small dogs. That split is the standout feature: most fenced parks in Melbourne's north only offer one space.

The dog setup

Off-leash play is permitted only inside the fenced perimeter; dogs go back on lead in the wider reserve. Owners must supervise at all times, carry a lead, and clip it back on before leaving the secure area. Unvaccinated dogs, dogs on heat and aggressive dogs are not permitted. Double-entry gates make arrival and exit safer, though the quiet zone gate sees a lot of traffic, so watch it closely when other dogs are coming and going.

Ground cover is grass in the main zone and gravel with logs and rocks in the quiet zone, with some trees for shade. A water tap and bowl sit just outside the main gate and bins take the waste, but seating is limited to a single unshaded bench, so bring your own shade or a chair if you plan to stay a while.

Pepsi: the quiet zone is the tip worth knowing. It is smaller, but a much calmer entry than diving straight into the main group.

Getting there and parking

The park is on Mudstone Street, with parking available but limited during busy periods, so respect residents' driveways on the surrounding streets. There is no train station in Wollert; Craigieburn Station is the nearest, with a bus connection or short drive from there.

Close by with the dogs

Rathdowne Community Fenced Dog Park is the suburb's other secure run, and Creek Park in Mernda is the closest alternative to the east. The Quarry Hills Track makes a good on-lead workout if your dog wants hills as well as fences, and Appret Cafe in Doreen has an alfresco area where dogs are welcome.

More options are on the Victoria dog parks guide and the Wollert destination page.