Oxenford Lake

Oxenford Lake, formally Regatta Lake, sits inside Damian Leeding Memorial Park on the Upper Coomera and Oxenford boundary. A flat 4 km concrete circuit loops the water on lead, and the same reserve holds a fenced off-leash area, so one visit covers both an on-lead walk and a proper run.

The dog setup

The full loop is four kilometres of even, all-weather concrete, around fifty minutes at a steady pace. Mangroves line parts of the shore and the rest opens onto mown grass, so there is variety without a single step of rough ground. Prams, wheelchairs and senior dogs all manage it easily.

Leash status

Dogs are welcome on lead around the lake circuit under City of Gold Coast rules, and the policy here is confirmed with council. Playgrounds and barbecue areas sit right beside the path and dogs are not allowed in either, so keep the lead on through those sections. Council also requires a dog in public to be with someone at least seventeen and wearing its registration tag. The fenced off-leash exercise area within the reserve is the one place the lead comes off, and the Upper Coomera #2 Fenced Dog Park gives you another fenced option in the same suburb.

Water and hazards

The lake is tidal and salt water, which surprises first-timers. Dogs can splash at the shallow edges but the bottom turns to soft mangrove mud in places, and that mud stains and smells, so rinse the dog before the car ride. Shade is patchy along long stretches, and Queensland sun on bare concrete gets hot enough to hurt paws well before it feels unbearable to you.

Pepsi: Salt water and a long drink do not go together. Offer fresh water before the swim and again after, so a thirsty dog is not tempted to drink the lake.

Getting there and parking

Take the Pacific Motorway to exit 57 at Tamborine Oxenford Road, or exit 54. Free parking runs along Michael Shelley Way, and the boat trailer bays are enforced, so do not park in one. Drinking fountains along the track help with hydration, and there are tables, two playgrounds and a boat ramp for kayaks on site.

When to go

Early mornings or weekdays are best. Saturday morning is the busiest window of the week, with runners, riders and prams crowding the path. In summer go at first light and stay off the concrete by mid morning. It suits seniors and any dog that does better with a predictable flat surface.

Close by with the dogs

Boatshed Brew sits on site with lakeside seating for the coffee stop, and Andonis Cafe and Bar in Upper Coomera is another easy drive. If you want more green space, Highland Reserve Park is nearby. The Queensland trails guide and the Upper Coomera destination page list more of what works in this corner of the Gold Coast.