Arthur John Upton Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Arthur John Upton Reserve is a 2.2 hectare off-leash reserve off Hartley Road in Wonga Park that feels more like old farmland than a suburban dog park, with open grass, a stand of pines and three former farm dams. Manningham Council designates the reserve off-leash, so dogs can range across most of it while you walk the dirt paths.

The rules. Standard Manningham off-leash conditions apply. Dogs must stay under effective control, which means in sight and returning on command, and go on lead within 15 metres of the playground and barbecue area or while an organised sporting event is on. Leash up when entering and leaving the reserve and in the car park, and pick up after your dog.

What's there. Natural dirt walking paths, open grassland and a pine plantation that throws decent shade. The three farm dams remain from the land's farming days. A pavilion, toilets, sheltered barbecue and playground sit nearby, all inside the on-lead buffer. There is no dedicated dog water tap, so bring your own bowl.

Getting there. The reserve sits off Yarra Road with parking near the Hartley Road entrance, plus walk-in entries from Upton Court, Vine Court and Inverbervie Court. Public transport is thin out this way, so plan to drive.

Nearby with the dogs. Wonga Park Reserve on Launders Avenue adds ovals and a cafe at the gate, and Warrandyte River Reserve is about a ten minute drive for an off-leash run beside the Yarra.

When to go. Weekday afternoons are usually quietest, and even on a busy Saturday morning the 2.2 hectares gives dogs room to spread out. Good for sniffy, independent dogs; nervous dogs will prefer the calmer mid-week windows.

Sources

• Arthur John Upton Reserve | Manningham Council · manningham.vic.gov.au
• Changes to dog on lead areas | Manningham Council · manningham.vic.gov.au
• Manningham Council Dog Off Leash Areas · melbourneplaygrounds.com.au

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