Lake Burrendong

Lake Burrendong is a sprawling man-made reservoir in the New South Wales Central West, created by damming the Macquarie River. It's a haven for water sports, fishing, and camping enthusiasts, offering a peaceful escape from city life. The lake's vast expanse, surrounded by rolling hills and golden paddocks, provides a quintessential Australian inland getaway.

Highlights & What to See

• Water Sports & Fishing: The lake is a prime spot for sailing, waterskiing, and kayaking. Anglers can try their luck for Murray cod, golden perch, and redfin.
• Camping & Picnicking: Several well-equipped campgrounds like Burrendong Dam Camping Area and Mookerawa Waters offer lakeside sites with basic amenities. Picnic areas with barbecues are scattered around.
• Walking & Birdwatching: Explore the bushland around the lake on short walks; keep an eye out for kangaroos, emus, and a variety of waterbirds.
• Burrendong Dam Wall: A short drive from the water, the dam wall provides impressive views over the lake and the valley below.
• Stargazing: Far from city lights, the night skies here are spectacular, especially during meteor showers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a weekend or longer. If you're camping, plan for at least two nights to fully enjoy the water and surrounding nature. For a day trip from Dubbo (about 45 minutes away), arrive early to secure a good picnic spot, enjoy a few hours on the water, and take a short walk before heading back.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wellington: A historic town near the lake with a scenic riverside, the Wellington Caves, and the Wellington Boot sculpture.
• Dubbo: Home to Taronga Western Plains Zoo, one of Australia's best open-range zoos, and the Old Dubbo Gaol.
• Mudgee: A renowned wine region with cellar doors, gourmet food, and heritage buildings, about 1.5 hours south.
• Orange: A cool-climate wine and food destination with beautiful parks and Mount Canobolas, about 2 hours south.

Please check official sources for current details.