Burrinjuck Waters State Park

Burrinjuck Waters State Park is a serene lakeside escape tucked into the rolling hills of the NSW Southern Tablelands, about an hour’s drive from Canberra. Centred on the vast Burrinjuck Dam, this park offers a blissful blend of water sports, bushwalking, and wildlife spotting. The lake’s deep blue waters and forested shorelines create a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city, yet it’s easily reached for a day trip or weekend getaway. Kayakers, anglers, and hikers will find plenty to love here, while the park’s quiet campsites invite you to slow down and soak in the starry night sky.

Highlights & What to See

• Burrinjuck Dam wall – Walk or drive across this impressive concrete arch dam (completed in 1928) for panoramic views of the lake and the Murrumbidgee River valley below.
• Water activities – The lake is prime for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing (Murray cod and golden perch are common catches). Bring your own gear; there are no rental facilities in the park.
• Bushwalking trails – The easy Burrinjuck Nature Walk (1.5 km) winds through box-gum woodland and offers glimpses of kangaroos and wedge-tailed eagles. For a longer hike, tackle the 6-km Black Andrew Trail to a scenic lookout.
• Birdwatching – The park is a haven for birdlife, including superb lyrebirds, gang-gang cockatoos, and white-bellied sea eagles. Early mornings are best.
• Camping & picnicking – Unpowered campsites at Lakeside and The Pines are perfect for tents and campervans, with basic facilities and direct lake access. Day-trippers can use the shady picnic areas with barbecues.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that a full day (6–8 hours) is enough to explore the main highlights: a walk to the dam, a paddle on the lake, and a picnic lunch. If you want to fish seriously or hike the longer trail, consider an overnight stay. Camping for one or two nights lets you fully unwind and enjoy sunrise over the water. The park is compact, so you won’t waste time driving between sights.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canberra – The national capital is less than an hour’s drive south, offering museums, galleries, and dining. Combine a morning at Burrinjuck with an afternoon exploring the Australian War Memorial or Parliament House.
• Yass Valley – The historic town of Yass (30 minutes east) has charming heritage streets, the Yass River walk, and excellent local wineries and breweries.
• Weereewa Lookout – Just outside the park, this viewpoint on the Lake George escarpment offers dramatic vistas of the lake and surrounding farmland.
• Murrumbateman – A 40-minute drive north, this wine region is known for cool-climate shiraz and riesling. Many cellar doors welcome tastings, and the rural scenery is lovely for a leisurely drive.

Please check official sources for current details.