Things to do in Lake Glenbawn

When it comes to country getaways with equal parts relaxation and adventure, Reflections Lake Glenbawn, in the stunning Upper Hunter is where it’s at. You’ll feel miles away from the hustle and bustle in this rural paradise, as you look out over the picturesque waters of Lake Glenbawn, hugged by distant mountain ranges. The list of things to do in Lake Glenbawn is a long one, turning every visitor from families to adventures, couples to solo stayers into happy campers.

Nature’s best activities and attractions

Fishing and boating hotspots

Just 15 minutes from Scone, Reflections Lake Glenbawn is a year-round fishing and boating mecca, offering top-notch fun on the water for everyone who’s willing. Hailed as one of the best freshwater fishing spots in NSW, whether you’re throwing a line in from the shore or by boat, Lake Glenbawn fishing means you can try your luck at reeling in Australian bass, golden perch, silver perch, Murray cod, catfish, eel and carp.

There’s plenty of accessible boat ramps making it easy to get out on the water, with sailing, jet skiing, wind surfing, water skiing and wake boarding all offering hours of fun on the lake. Your toughest choice will be what to try first.

The water is calling at Lake Glenbawn

The crystal-clear waters of Lake Glenbawn will have you ready to dive in for a refreshing dip, straight after camp setup (and don’t worry, your pup is welcome to cool off in the dam too). Besides swimming in the designated spots, exploring the waterways with a paddle in hand is a must. Whether you bring the canoe, kayak or stand-up paddle board, drift off into nature as you discover the vast perimeters of Lake Glenbawn.

Must do hikes and walks in nature 

For the nature lovers, there are bushwalks and trails for days at Reflections Lake Glenbawn so don’t forget the camera to snap the friendly local wildlife which are sure to make an appearance. You’ll be spoilt for choice in Lake Glenbawn State Park with it’s beautiful walking trails boasting views over the lake and Hunter River and just a stone’s throw from the Lake Glenbawn camping area.

Start off with a wander around the foreshore, try the Dam Wall walk for panoramic views of the breathtaking countryside that hugs the lake or set off on one of the many signposted trails and get up close with wildflowers and wildlife, then take a break on your very own hillside lookout spot.

Still hungry for country action? Learn more about Scone Golf Club – it’s just up the road from Reflections Lake Glenbawn, making a round with mates a fun way to pass the arvo. With so many things to do, once you add Lake Glenbawn camping to your yearly holiday planner, you’ll never look back.

Grab a bite to eat  

For the foodies 

There’s really nothing better than cooking up a feast with mates on an open campfire, and Reflections Lake Glenbawn has perfected the art of dinner with a view. On the other hand, if you’re keen to sample some of the local cuisine, there’s plenty of dining options within an easy drive. Scone Golf Club has a restaurant and café on site, so you’ll be well fed after wandering the greens. Just 14km up the road from Glenbawn Dam, is the Upper Hunter township of Scone, which is bursting with cafes and restaurants. Campers should book The Cottage Scone in advance for delicious fare or rock on into one of the local hotels like The Belmore or The Thoroughbred for some good old country grub and hospitality.

Local cuisine 

For food fresh from the paddocks, head along to the Scone country Markets on the lawn at the Scone Areo Club on the first Sunday of the month or breathe in the pure country air at the Denman Farmers and Artisans Markets on the first Saturday of each month. Wine lovers should also lock in a day trip to one of the nearby Hunter Valley wineries like Two River Wines or Small Forest Wines and bring a good bottle back to camp to enjoy as the sun goes down.

Seasonal events and must-do activities by the lake

Summertime water fun 

There’s plenty of fun to be had in and around Reflections Holiday Park Lake Glenbawn during the warmer months. A day trip at Reflections Lake Glenbawn is the perfect way to catch up with family or mates waterside with hours of action on the lake paddling, swimming or skiing= – so grab your day or annual pass here and make lasting memories. 

Big on fishing? Hit up the Lake Glenbawn Family Carp Muster in February with prizes to win and plenty of carp to wrangle!

Winter must-dos on the lake

Fishing in the cooler months at Lake Glenbawn is just as rewarding as when the sun’s belting down, so pack the jacket and beanie and get out on the water (but have the campfire prepped to warm your toes by on your return). For the die-hard fisher people, keep your rod at the ready and head along to the Australian Bass Tournament at Glenbawn Dam in May and try your luck for a prize. 

Fancy a bit of country culture? The annual Aberdeen Highland Games is a must-visit. Held on the first weekend in July each year, pack the winter woollies and enjoy a weekend celebrating the Scottish/Celtic history of the Upper Hunter. 

Nearby Scone, the epicentre of the thoroughbred horse breeding capital of Australia, offers plenty of racing action, so if you fancy a break from the lake, check out Scone Race Club. Keep horsing around with a visit to the Warburton Estate Agents Scone Horse Festival in May, a ten day event that showcases the history of horses in the region, competitions, parades, fireworks and more. 

Ready for a holiday at Lake Glenbawn?

With relaxation, adventure and plenty of things to do at Lake Glenbawn, the convenience of staying in this picturesque pocket of the Upper Hunter Valley, right in the heart of all the action and relaxation, is all the convincing you’ll need to book your next Reflections Lake Glenbawn holiday getaway.

Whether you want to explore angling heaven and chase the famous Australian bass, or if water sports or nature’s best hiking trails are more your thing, book now and soak up the serenity and adventure at Reflections Lake Glenbawn.

Photography: With thanks to Ambassador Wandering Tribe of Five