Things to do at Grabine Lakeside

Surrounded by rolling hills and vast open areas, Grabine Lakeside is all about embracing the great outdoors. Think bush walks, water sports and starry nights by an open fire. Laid-back is the name of the game here, and anyone looking for a fun nature escape – from families to couples to adventurers will love their time here.

Thanks to a fabulous setting right on the shores of Wyangala Dam in New South Wales, the most popular things to do in Grabine Lakeside naturally include swimming, kayaking and gliding across the lake in a tinnie – with or without a fishing rod on board. Prefer to stay on land? How about exploring bush trails that lead to scenic lookouts, as you keep an eye out for wildlife – including kangaroos and wallabies; or simply enjoying some quiet time while soaking up the serene lake views from a spacious campsite or cabin.

Outdoor activities and local attractions

If you're into outdoor adventures and exploring country NSW, your Grabine Lakeside camping trip will deliver in spades.

Fishing and boating

Make sure to pack your rods because the lake is teeming with golden perch, trout, Murray cod and catfish. Bringing your own tinnie or kayak? Too easy! As well as dedicated boat ramps, the gently sloping banks mean you can launch your vessel from just about anywhere.

Swimming and water sports

Calm water makes the lake ideal for a refreshing dip on a warm summer’s day. Paddleboarding, wind surfing, canoeing, sailing and water skiing are also popular. Travelling as a family? The placid shoreline creates a safe option for kids to splash about.

Hiking and nature walks

Keen for a bush walk? The surrounding hills are great for exploring with plenty of hiking trails weaving through the bushland. Make sure to check out the scenic Decca Trail which leads to a panoramic lookout with a good chance to see wallabies along the way.

Top local attractions

As well as being a great spot to get away from it all, the lake is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Here’s a little taster of things to do around Grabine Lakeside Caravan Park.

Caves and waterfalls

Treat the kids (and yourselves) to an unforgettable experience when you take a magical underground journey at Abercrombie Caves. This stunning cave system includes the largest natural limestone arch in the southern hemisphere. Beautiful Grove Creek Falls are also close by and easily reached by road or on foot (6km return hike.).

Visit a winery

Enjoy a little vino? Family-owned Lake George Winery is just the place to sample cool climate wines and enjoy a delicious meal with or without wine pairings.

Dining and nightlife

Grabine Lakeside restaurants:

Ok, so Grabine Lakeside isn’t a foodie metropolis– , it’s more about reeling in a sea perch for dinner and toasting marshmallows by the fire under the blazing stars. But if you are travelling with kids, they will be happy to know that the onsite kiosk (open on weekends) sells ice creams, snacks and lollies. There’s fish and chips too, so that’s a quick and easy tea sorted! If you’re staying a while and fancy changing things up, there’s some fun dining options nearby including cosy cafes and charming country pubs.

In the nearby village of Bigga, you will find Olympica Cafe and Bakery– a local institution and popular breakfast spot. Tip: stock up on yummy homemade cakes and pastries to take back to the campsite (you’re welcome!).

For a casual meal and a drink, Busy’s cafe and bistro at Wyangala Country Club is just seven 7km from the campsite. Think chicken parmy, seafood baskets and a well-priced kids’ menu.

Craving a classic chicken schnitzel? Enjoy the country vibe as you tuck into your pub faves at Laggan Pub while the kids play in the big, beautiful garden.

An atmospheric cafe with a leafy setting, Ensemble and Co in Crookwell serves up delicious home baked treats to enjoy with your latte.

Cowra cafes

Cowra is a little further afield, but if you are out exploring the area or passing through on your way into or out of Grabine Lakeside Holiday Park, why not …

• Treat yourself to a Chinese feast at Hong Kong Chinese Restaurant.
• Enjoy the serene garden views with coffee, cake or lunch at Japanese Garden Cafe in Cowra.
• Have a tasty brunch at Breakout Brasserie Cafe–– a sunny cafe with a rustic vibe right on the main street.

Local markets and events

Community markets are always a buzz and give a great insight into a region, plus of course the chance to pick up fresh local produce, arts and crafts, clothing and bric-a-brac. Check out:

• Crookwell Community Markets at the Crookwell Rail Heritage site on the first Saturday of the month.
• Cowra Community Markets on the third Saturday of every month.

Events

Fun for all the family, the Wyangala Bonfire and Fireworks display is held on the June Long Weekend, with live entertainment, stalls and special daytime events ahead of a fiery finale after dark.

Grenfell is the birthplace of Australia’s most famous poet, and the Henry Lawson Festival is celebrated each June and includes performances, a fun street parade, busking and a car show.

Keen to sample local wines? Time your camping trip to Grabine Lakeside with the Cowra Wine Show in July.

Celebrating all things Japanese, the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival is on each September, with Bonsai workshops, Taiko drummers, sumo wrestlers, sword demonstrations, origami, martial arts, dancers and tea ceremonies. 

Day trip to Grabine Lakeside Holiday Park

Just coming for the day? You can grab your day pass here

Seasonal Events and Activities

Summer Activities

Yep, summer is all about the water, so make a picnic lunch, stake out a shady spot and spend the day swimming, water skiing or drifting along in a kayak. Warm summer nights are all about barbecues, stargazing, and board games.

Winter activities

Winter has its own kind of charm and there’s still plenty of things to do at Grabine Lakeside when the weather turns cold. The crisp air makes for perfect hiking conditions while early morning mist rolling over the lake is a vision worth getting up for. You could also take a scenic drive, explore country roads, or simply cosy up in a cabin with a book and a hot drink.

Ready to head inland?

Feeling tempted? With direct access to the water, great facilities and peaceful surroundings, Reflections Grabine Lakeside is the ideal base to enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer. Whether you're pitching a tent, parking a van or booking a cabin, you’ll find the perfect fit, so why wait? Book your stay now and start planning your adventure!

From water sports and bushwalks to casual barbecues and campfire nights, there are endless things to do in Grabine Lakeside all year round, and with fantastic park facilities you’ll find everything you need for a memorable trip.