Burrinjuck Dam

Burrinjuck Dam is a striking feat of early 20th-century engineering set amid the rolling hills of the NSW Southern Tablelands, about 40 minutes' drive north-west of Canberra. The massive concrete wall impounds the Murrumbidgee River, creating a long, sinuous lake that snakes into the surrounding bushland. It's a peaceful spot for a picnic, a short walk across the dam wall, or simply soaking up the vast views over the water and the distant Brindabella Ranges. The area has a quiet, off-the-beaten-path feel that appeals to travellers looking for a quick nature escape from the capital.

Highlights & What to See

• Walk the dam wall: Stroll across the 256-metre-long crest for panoramic views of the lake and the valley below. The sheer scale of the wall is impressive.
• Picnic at Burrinjuck Waters State Park: Spread out a blanket on the grassy banks under shady eucalypts, with the lake as your backdrop. The park has barbecues and basic facilities.
• Spot wildlife: Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, and a variety of birdlife, including black swans and cormorants along the shoreline.
• Fishing and boating: The lake is popular for trout and redfin fishing. Bring your own kayak or tinny; there's a boat ramp at the state park.
• Explore the historic pump house: Near the dam wall, the original pump house and interpretive signs tell the story of the dam's construction (1912–1928) and its role in irrigating the Murrumbidgee Valley.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can comfortably take in the dam and enjoy a picnic in 1–2 hours. If you plan to fish, kayak, or take a longer bushwalk along the lake's edge, budget half a day. The drive from Canberra is scenic but winding, so factor in about 40 minutes each way. Combine it with a morning at the Australian National Botanic Gardens or afternoon in Murrumbateman's wine region for a full day out.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Murrumbateman: Just 20 minutes south, this wine-growing area is dotted with cellar doors offering cool-climate shiraz and riesling. Great for a tasting stop.
• Canberra: The national capital is only 40 minutes away, with its museums, galleries, and Parliament House.
• Yass: A historic town 30 minutes north-west, with a pretty main street, antique shops, and the Yass River walk.
• Weereewa Lookout: A short detour on the way to the dam offers sweeping views over Lake George, a vast ephemeral lake that's often dry.
• Lake Burley Griffin: Back in Canberra, the central lake is perfect for a bike ride or paddleboat hire.

Please check official sources for current details.