Things to do around Lake Burrendong

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 getaway or fishing escape, or linger longer to really connect with the local area. There are plenty of activities for people of all ages to enjoy, from swimming, fishing and boating to picnicking, hiking, and camping.

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, plus 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.

Stargazing

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.

Attractions 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, the limestone Wellington 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, The Burrendong Botanic Garden & Arboretum is a 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.

Local dining and food options

Restaurants and cafes

If you're looking to dine out, nearby Wellington offers several options:

• The Lion of Waterloo: A historic tavern known for its hearty meals and welcoming atmosphere.
• Jespresso: A cozy café perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a coffee stop.
• Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club: Offers bistro-style dining with views over the golf course.

These spots provide a variety of meals to suit different tastes and are just a short drive from the lake.

BBQs and camp cooking

Prefer to cook your own feast? Reflections Holiday Park Lake Burrendong has plenty of BBQ areas and camp kitchens, perfect for grilling up your fresh catch or enjoying a relaxed outdoor meal with family and friends. Pack your supplies, fire up the BBQ, and enjoy dinner with a lake view.

Local markets

If you time your visit right, the Wellington Rotary Markets are held on the fourth Saturday of each month at Cameron Park in Wellington. It’s a great spot to pick up local produce, homemade goodies, crafts, and gifts. Perfect for stocking your picnic basket or finding a souvenir to take home.

Visit Lake Burrendong for the day

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.

Seasonal Events and activities

Summer activities

Long summer days at Wyangala Waters are perfect for family fun and relaxation by the water. Kids can enjoy swimming, playing on the sandy shoreline, or riding their bikes around the park’s wide open spaces. Meanwhile, adults can try their luck fishing for golden perch or Murray cod, head out on the dam for boating or kayaking, or simply unwind with a lakeside picnic.

Winter activities

Crisp, clear days are perfect for outdoor adventures and cosy nights under the stars. Families can enjoy bushwalks along scenic trails, spotting native wildlife and soaking up panoramic views of the lake. After a day exploring, gather around the fire pit to toast marshmallows and take in the incredible night skies, ideal for stargazing. For a day trip, head into nearby Wellington to visit the caves, explore local shops and cafes, or take the kids to the Japanese Gardens for a peaceful wander.

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. Book your Lake Burrendong holiday today.