Melbourne’s got plenty of dog parks and off-lead areas—but let’s be honest, not all of them deliver. If you’re sick of fenced ovals doubling as dustbowls, Chelsea Bicentennial Park Off Leash Area offers something better: proper space.
At around 10,000 square metres, this is one of the largest off leash dog parks in the southeast. There’s enough open grassland for full-speed zoomies, friendly fetch sessions, and long, meandering sniffs—without dodging prams, footy teams or grumpy dog parents.
Set within the broader Bicentennial Park in Chelsea, this off-leash area connects directly to on-lead walking trails, wetlands, BBQ zones and public toilets. So even a casual visit can turn into a solid weekend outing. Yes, the grass is a bit uneven. And sure, the agility gear is showing its age. But it all works—and the best bit? A serious revamp is on the way.
Why Chelsea Dog Owners Keep Coming Back
Large Off Leash Area
This isn’t a fenced strip pretending to be a park. It’s one of the few off leash parks in Chelsea where dogs can truly stretch out, run wild, and socialise without bumping shoulders every five seconds.
Simple but Fun Dog Agility Circuit
In the centre, there’s a woodchip loop with six dog obstacles—jumps, weave poles, and balancing logs. It’s casual and low-pressure, perfect for training or mixing up the usual fetch routine.
Water, Shade & Rest Stops
There’s a drink fountain with a dog bowl, a shaded picnic shelter, poop bag stations, and a bin. A few trees offer minimal shade for now, but more are coming as part of the park upgrade.
Access to Wetland Walks
Want more than just off-lead play? Leash up and stroll the scenic trails around Wannarkladdin Wetlands. It’s green, quiet, and a solid cooldown after the chaos of the off-lead zone.
Off-Leash and On-Lead Amenities
Whether you’re doing a quick stop or staying for a longer hangout, the park has a good mix of essentials.
Off-Leash Zone Includes:
Covered picnic table and basic shelter
Water fountain with dog bowl
Dog bag dispenser and bin
Agility equipment + dog exercise circuit
Gravel path through the park
On-Lead Park Amenities:
Public toilets nearby
BBQ facilities and picnic tables
Walking trails through the Wannarkladdin Wetlands
A Big Bicentennial Park Upgrade Is on the Way
The City of Kingston has released concept plans to transform Bicentennial Park into a top-tier dog park. Here’s what’s in store:
A full perimeter fence (with double-gated entry)
New benches and natural log-based play zones
Improved surfacing to level out those rough patches
New trees to increase canopy coverage
Retaining current features: shelter, agility items, water fountain, gravel path
Best of all, the new fencing won’t reduce the park’s size.
Visiting Chelsea Bicentennial Park Dog Off Leash Area
There’s free parking on Argyle Avenue, just 10 metres from the off-leash entrance. No need to hike in or wrestle with leads across sports fields—it's easy in, easy out.
