Ballast Ground Park
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Ballast Ground Park is a designated leash-free space on the Stockton headland — primarily a cricket ground when matches are on, with spectacular views over the harbour and across to Newcastle. Visitors note it's a popular vantage point for the Newcastle New Year's Eve fireworks.
Dogs can be off-leash between sunrise and sunset; on-leash applies outside those hours. They must remain under effective control, and the 10-metre zone around the playground is dog-free at all times. For an enclosed off-leash area, Stockton Off-Leash Dog Area is a few minutes' walk up the road.
Dog rules
Designated leash-free area. Dogs are permitted off-leash between sunrise and sunset. Dogs must be accompanied, supervised, and controllable without a leash. Dangerous, aggressive, and restricted breeds are not permitted. Dog owners must remove all dog faeces. Dogs are not permitted on the Memorial Walk or within 10 metres of a playground. Source: City of Newcastle – Leash Free Areas (newcastle.nsw.gov.au/living/residents/pets-and-animals/leash-free-areas)
At a glance
On & off-leash zonesVenue website
Shade availableVenue website
Grassy areaVenue website
BBQsVenue website
45 Fullerton St, Stockton NSW 2295
Nearby dog-friendly spots
Before you go
- 💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.
- 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.
What people say
★★★★☆1 year ago
The ballast ground is a NO camping area Please support our community by camping and setting up caravans in our local tourist park.
★★★★★8 years ago
Love spending time with my family at this park. It's the family that makes the difference ☺☺☺
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.