Charles Harper Park

Charles Harper Park is Helensburgh's town-centre green on Parkes Street, with shady lawns, a rotunda and a new playground. It suits a short on-lead stroll rather than a long walk.

Lead rules

The City of Wollongong requires dogs on a lead here, as there is no off-lead area in the park. Dogs are also prohibited within 10 metres of children's play areas, which matters in a park built around a playground.

What's there

Grass covers most of the park, with concrete paths linking the spaces. Mature trees and shade sails over the play areas give relief on hot days.

Bins are on site, but there is no fixed dog water bowl, so bring your own. The park sits beside the playing fields and the public pool.

Getting started

The car park off Parkes Street includes an accessible space.

Pair it with

Let your dog off at Proud Park Fenced Dog Park, Helensburgh's off-leash park, then treat yourself at Gelato Man.

Give the play equipment a wide berth, and use the lawns under the trees for a slow sniff around town.