Jo Gapper Dog Park at Hillbank

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Tucked away on a back block on the edge of the hillside suburb of Hillbank is a great little park. And it has been especially made just for dogs.



This doggy playground is located on Blackburn Road in Hillbank. From busy Main North Road, you would never know it is here. There is no signage from the busy route through the northern suburbs. It seems that only locals know about it and use it. However if you are in the vicinity or if you are travelling north to the country with your pet pooch, this would make an ideal stop for your dog to have a run around and stretch their legs.



The fenced enclosures are split up into two dog zones. One is a safe zone for small dogs and puppies over six months only and the larger area is open to all dogs. Between the two areas, which are completely fenced is a dog water tap and drinking bowl. It's like kindergarten where the newbie pups can peer through the fence and see what the big boys are doing. There are strict rules to be adhered to, such as all dogs are not to be brought here if they are sick and they must have up to date vaccinations. All dogs must wear their registration tag, and of course picking up after your dog is expected.



The dog park is only two years old and it looked very clean with not a poop in sight. It has lush green grass, even when I visited after a long hot summer. There are seats for owners and some shaded areas for doggies to rest under. There are walking paths around the area with some mounds to scramble over and tunnels to run through.



I met a local lady who brings her elderly Mother's dog to exercise here every second day. Julie said she brings Max into the dog park for a sniff about as he likes to check out who is here. Then she takes him for a run in the open bushland at the rear of the park. The park is on the side of a hill, hence the name Hillbank and it is a good half hour walk up to a lookout which the dogs love.





The only drawback is there are no people toilets here or anywhere nearby at all. The closest would be at Freemont Park in Elizabeth or the Elizabeth Shopping Centre. If driving from the south or city you may want to stop off first at Carisbrooke Park on Main North Road for a pit stop.

The dog park is a on a slight incline from the car parking spaces, but only a short distance to walk. The dogs who I saw visit here were excited and happy and were loving their run about. This is a quiet area away from main roads and is an enjoyable experience for both pets and owners.



Jo Gapper was a councilor and past Mayor of the City of Munno Para prior to the amalgamation with City of Playford. She had much input into green spaces and land care in her community.

#dog_friendly
#family
#hillbank
#northern_suburbs
#outdoor
#parks
#walks
%wnadelaide