Lake Burrendong State Park

Ringed by golden hills and sprawling across the central west of NSW, Lake Burrendong State Park is a serene escape defined by its vast man-made lake, woodland campsites, and a palpable sense of isolation. The park offers a classic Australian bush-meets-water experience: think fishing lines cast into still water, the crackle of a campfire, and kangaroos grazing at dusk. It’s a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the landscape.

Highlights & What to See

• Lake Burrendong – The star attraction; a massive reservoir perfect for fishing (Murray cod, golden perch), sailing, and kayaking. The water levels fluctuate, but the views across the water to the surrounding hills are always compelling.
• Burrendong Arboretum – A surprising botanical treasure featuring over 1,200 species of Australian native plants. Wander themed sections—Mallee, Wattle, Eucalypt—and spot birds flitting among the blooms.
• Mookerawa Lookout – A short walk from the main camping area yields panoramic vistas over the lake and the distant granite outcrops of the Catombal Range.
• Walking trails – The Burrendong Dam Wall Walk offers a unique perspective on the engineering of the dam, while the Redbank Trail takes you through river red gum forests and along the shoreline.
• Wildlife watching – Keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, echidnas, and a variety of waterbirds including pelicans and black swans.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors come for a weekend camping trip (2–3 days) to fully appreciate the lake and the arboretum. If you’re self-driving from Sydney or the coast, you can comfortably cover the park’s highlights in a single day—arrive early, explore the arboretum, have a picnic by the water, and walk the dam wall before heading back. For a more relaxed pace, a two-night stay allows time for fishing, a sunset paddle, and a longer hike.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wellington – A historic town 30 minutes north, home to the Wellington Caves and a charming main street with cafes.
• Dubbo – An hour’s drive east, Dubbo offers the renowned Taronga Western Plains Zoo and the Old Dubbo Gaol.
• Mudgee – About 90 minutes south, this wine region is perfect for a day of cellar door tastings and farm-to-table dining.
• Orange – A two-hour drive south, known for its cool-climate wines, Mount Canobolas, and excellent food scene.
• Lake Burrendong itself – The state park is the gateway; combine it with a visit to the nearby Burrendong Dam for engineering history.

Please check official sources for current details.