Nurragingy Reserve

Lakes, rolling hills, bushland and a Chinese Garden make Nurragingy Reserve one of western Sydney's more varied on-lead walks. It sits in Doonside, next to Rooty Hill, with an entrance on Knox Road.

Lead rules

Blacktown City Council requires dogs to be on a lead at all times. It is not an off-lead park.

That predictability is why owners of reactive dogs, older dogs and hounds rate it.

The walk

A network of sealed share paths and unsealed walking tracks lets you shape a short or long loop past the lakes and gardens. Big trees, bush sections and sheltered picnic areas give plenty of shade.

Water and parking

There are no low dog fountains on the trails, but taps at the main car park and picnic grounds will fill a bowl. Bins sit near the picnic and amenity blocks, so bring your own bags.

Parking is plentiful near the main entrance.

Pepsi: Fill the bowl at a picnic ground tap before you set off. The lake loops are worth lingering on.

Make a day of it

Caffeine Culture Cafe in Doonside is close for coffee, and May Cowpe Reserve Dog Park in Rooty Hill is there for a run.

Weekends draw families and picnic groups, so weekday mornings are calmer for a nervous dog.