Cams Wharf
Cams Wharf is a serene lakeside suburb on the southern shores of Lake Macquarie, offering a peaceful escape with easy access to the lake's aquatic playground. Its quiet streets and waterfront reserves make it an ideal base for paddling, fishing, and soaking up the area's natural beauty.
Highlights & What to See
- Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area – Explore this protected stretch of shoreline with walking trails through bushland, picnic spots, and kayak launch points for gliding across the lake's calm waters.
- Cams Wharf Reserve – A grassy park with a boat ramp, perfect for launching a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Bring a picnic and watch the yachts drift by.
- Fishing off the wharf – Drop a line from the historic wharf itself; it's a local favourite for catching bream and flathead, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Pelican Island – A short paddle from Cams Wharf, this small island is a haven for birdlife and offers a secluded spot for a swim or picnic.
- Wangi Point Lookout – A short drive away, this lookout offers panoramic views across the lake and the distant Watagan Mountains.
Suggested Time to Spend
Half a day is sufficient to enjoy the highlights of Cams Wharf – launch a kayak, have a picnic at the reserve, and explore the conservation area. If you're a keen angler or want to paddle to Pelican Island, allow a full day. The pace is relaxed, so don't rush.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Swansea – Just north, where the lake meets the ocean; visit the historic Swansea Bridge and grab fish and chips by the water.
- Belmont – A bustling lakeside town with cafes, shops, and the popular Belmont Golf Course.
- Watagan Mountains – West of the lake, this national park offers excellent bushwalking and waterfall views for a nature fix.
- Lake Macquarie's Coastal Walk – A multi-day walking track that passes near Cams Wharf; pick up a section for a longer hike.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Swansea — Stuart Smith. / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Belmont — David / Public domain
- Watagan Mountains — Bluedawe / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Wangi Point — Tim J Keegan / CC BY-SA 2.0
- Pelican Island — JJ Harrison ( https://tiny.jjharrison.com.au/t/j7XQOlEZP52BDn8g ) / CC BY-SA 4.0