Lake Burrendong is the Region's hotspot for fishing, water sports and outdoor adventures! Read on to discover everything there is to see and do and plan your perfect day out on the water.
A forever favourite with locals and visitors alike, Lake Burrendong or 'The Dam' as it is affectionately known is a haven for anglers, water sports and outdoor enthusiasts. Construction of the Dam was completed in 1967, with the impressive Dam wall standing 78m high and 1,116m long. When full, at its deepest point the lake is over 57m deep, with a surface area of over 7,200 hectares and a capacity of an impressive 1,188 gigalitres - or around 47,500 Olympic sized swimming pools!
Lake Burrendong is an approximately 25 minute drive from the town of Wellington, with access available via Reflections Holiday Park (hint - enter 486 Fashions Mount Rd, Mumbil NSW 2820 in your GPS).
Anglers of all abilities and interest levels will find something to enjoy at Lake Burrendong! The main target species to catch are Murray cod, golden perch and eel-tailed catfish as well European carp. The Lake is also home to silver perch and redfin but they are less commonly caught these days. Avid fishing enthusiasts often troll along the old riverbeds within the Dam where huge numbers of drowned trees offer ideal habitats for fish to school in large numbers.
The main access point for the Dam is at Lake Burrendong State Park featuring all the facilities you might need ahead of your day on the water, including a kiosk, fuel, swimming areas, playgrounds and accommodation. Those seeking an under the stars experience will find favourable camping sites at 'Eagle Beagle' with the rocky shoreline also perfect for bank fishing. Anglers often catch shrimp and yabbies in this area to use as live bait - which the fish just love!
The Macquarie River arm of the Dam is home to Mookerawa Waters Park - which is a favourite for both campers and boaters. Often in Spring the native fish school in this area prior to moving up into the rivers for spawning. There are also plenty of submerged dead trees in the narrow section of the Dam providing great habitats for a variety of fish species, but still ample room for boats with over 30km of water upstream to where the Macquarie River enters the Dam when full.
Please ensure you are fishing responsibly in our Region with appropriate licences obtained and adhering to all relevant rules and regulations. Lake Burrendong fishing information via NSW DPI Go Freshwater Fishing
If fishing isn't your sport but you are keen to hit the water then there are plenty of options to enjoy at Lake Burrendong!
Strap on your life jackets and head out in the canoe or kayak to glide at your own pace and enjoy sharing a moment of peace and quiet with the diverse wildlife in and out of the water. Whether you enjoy a leisurely cruise or more high-speed adventuring - there's room for everyone's boat on Lake Burrendong.
Spike the adrenaline and bring out the skis, wakeboards, jet skis or towable ski tubes for an action-packed day on the water. Or just pack your togs and enjoy a serene swim through the glassy waters. There are several public boat ramps available at Reflections Holiday Parks who accept day visitors for a fee.
Don't forget to bring your camera - the awe-inspiring views and stunning bushland surrounds make Lake Burrendong a favourite among photographers.
Or if you prefer to adventure on dry land, you will find no shortage of fabulous bushwalks in the area - including a walk or cycle across the immense Dam wall. There is no vehicle access to the wall but the views of the lake and beyond make the walk well worth it. Not far from the shores of Lake Burrendong you will find the incredible Burrendong Botanic Garden and Arboretum - with over 164 hectares dedicated to the conservation of Australia's unique and incredibly diverse flora, including Fern Gully, a man-made rainforest situated beneath an enormous thatched canopy.
