Byards Road Wetlands

The wetlands beside Reynella East College, known as Byards Road Wetlands, sit in Happy Valley rather than Old Reynella. Large freshwater pools, tall reeds and years of revegetation make this a flat, on-lead loop with birdlife at every turn.

Lead rules

Dogs are welcome, but the City of Onkaparinga requires them on a lead throughout the wetlands. Keep it on for the whole loop.

The walk

Paths are formed gravel and packed earth, level and wide enough for a pram. Watch the pools for Eurasian coots, grey teal, grebes and masked lapwings.

Mature native trees and reed beds shade some stretches, while the paths around the open basins sit in full sun.

Water and parking

The pools are for the birds, so carry a bottle and bowl for your dog. Bins sit near the main access points, and street parking near the school and reserve entries covers most visits.

Max: The birds are the main event here, so keep the lead short near the water's edge.

Make a day of it

Let your dog run off the lead afterwards at Woodcroft Fenced Dog Park, then grab a coffee at Grazing in the Valley.

When to go

Early morning brings the most birds and keeps you off the exposed sections before the heat. The flat surface suits older dogs and anyone after a gentle stroll.