Hawthorne Canal Reserve
Hawthorne Canal Reserve has a relaxed, community feel with a partially fenced off-leash area and a steady local presence. It's a simple, well-used space that works well for everyday visits, with the surrounding area adding to the overall experience.
Dog rules
A designated area of Hawthorne Canal Reserve — bounded by the canal, the light rail pathway and line, and the Canal Road car park — is off-leash at all times. Dogs must be on a leash outside this area.
At a glance
Before you go
- 💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.
- 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.
- 🧱No confirmed fencing — keep your dog on lead if unsure.
What people say
Amazing little off leash park. Perfect balance of shady trees and open play area. The people and dogs are always friendly and it seems to have a dog-first vibe. It is open to the canal, though, and also not fenced on the end closest to the cafe, so probably not great for puppies or dogs with hit and miss recall. Usually plenty of parking, unless there is a game at the adjacent fields.
Lovely area for families and their dogs .. friendly cafe catering for breakfast & lunch for humans and their fur babies .. tennis courts & children's playground opposite the Dog Park
If you want to socialize with cool people and cool dogs, this is the place to be. It is really a blessing to have such a park. It is different from other parks and there's more of a good vibe and you can see the difference. My dogs love it TOTALLY RECOMMENDif you leave in the area!
Park is great for dog leashed or unleashed. There is a very friendly atmosphere among dog owners. Instructors are good caring people also. And you can get a coffee.
Lovely local dog park with a bay adjacent. Go for a cycle, walk, run or sit! Plenty of pups and doggo's as well as a cafe and places to have a picnic! Also great sunrise and sunset location!
Happy Dog Guides
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How we know this
We check council regulations, official sources, and community reviews to verify dog access at every venue. Access may change — always check on-site signage. Something wrong or missing? Submit feedback. How it works.