Things to do around Lake Burrendong

Lake Burrendong: A laid-back outdoor playground in Central West NSW

Lake Burrendong is a beautiful and scenic destination for outdoor recreation in Central West NSW. Set just outside of Wellington (about a 20-minute drive), it’s an ideal spot for a weekend away or even a spontaneous day trip. There are plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy, from swimming, fishing and boating to picnicking, hiking, and camping at nearby holiday parks. And if you’re not planning to stay overnight at Reflections Lake Burrendong, that’s totally fine; day passes are available, so you can simply rock up and enjoy a relaxing day by the water.

Outdoor activities at Burrendong Dam

Fishing

Lake Burrendong fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake. There are plenty of spots to fish from, with a wide variety of species available including Bass, Redfin, Golden Perch, Silver Perch, Murray Cod, Rainbow Trout and Carp.

“The Dong” as it’s known by the locals and avid fishermen is the perfect spot for anglers who want to try their hand at catching some bigger fish by casting and trolling lures.

Boating

The calm waters of Lake Burrendong make it perfect for boating, whether you’re into water skiing or just cruising around on a pontoon boat. You can take advantage of the numerous boat ramps located around the lake to launch your craft. No matter what kind of boating adventure you're looking for, you'll find it here.

Hiking

Take advantage of the beautiful scenery around Lake Burrendong by exploring its many hiking trails, including amazing views of the lake and basin from the dam wall. The variety of terrain and varying difficulty levels make it a great spot for hikers of all experience levels to enjoy nature and get some exercise.

Star-gazing

The night sky comes to life at Lake Burrendong, far removed from the lights and busyness of the cities and towns. Enjoy a star filled sky with no distractions and restore your soul.

More things to see and do nearby

If you’re staying for a few days, there’s plenty more to check out in the area:

Wellington Caves

Only 25 minutes from the lake, these limestone caves are a must-visit. Take a guided tour through the Cathedral Cave, complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and a giant crystal called the Altar.

Burrendong Botanic Garden & Arboretum

Just a 5-minute drive from the lake, this peaceful spot features walking trails, native plants, and seasonal blooms—great for a low-key wander or a picnic.

Mudgee

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive (about 1 hr 45 mins), Mudgee is a lovely country town with excellent wineries, cafes, and weekend markets.

Visit Dubbo

Around an hour’s drive north, Dubbo is home to the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo, great local food, and heritage attractions like the Old Dubbo Gaol.

Day Passes & Park Access

Just visiting for the day? No problem. Day passes to Lake Burrendong give you access to picnic areas, walking trails, and the water for fishing and boating. It’s a great option if you’re not planning to camp or stay overnight but still want to enjoy everything the lake has to offer. Get your day pass online, and you will be emailed a boomgate park to get in and out of the park.

Getting to Lake Burrendong

Lake Burrendong is pretty central, making it easy to access from different parts of NSW:

• From Orange – Around 1 hr 20 mins by car
• From Dubbo – About 1 hr
• From Bathurst – Roughly 2 hrs
• From Sydney – Around 4.5 to 5 hrs, depending on traffic

Ready to book your Lake Burrendong adventure?

Whether you’re planning a laid-back weekend of fishing, a family camping trip, or just a day by the water with a picnic and a paddle, Lake Burrendong ticks all the boxes. With heaps of space, loads to do, and the kind of peaceful setting that makes you instantly unwind, it’s the perfect spot to reconnect with nature.