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Freshwater boating

Location of dams and lakes

Hover your cursor over the numbers on the map to see the name of the lake or dam.

• Storage level details
  Storage capacity levels can change due to rainfall within the catchment area or when water is released downstream for irrigation, industry and town water supply purposes. Consequently there can be an enormous variation in surface area and shoreline shape. This results in some of the areas previously covered by water when a dam is full, becoming exposed or so shallow that they constitute a hazard to navigation.
• Facilities
  There are different facilities at each dam. For more information check the managing authorities' websites. This information, along with maps of the dams is also available in Beacon to Beacon.
• Boating
  Registration and licence requirements apply for boating on freshwater impoundments and dams, as do speed limits and safety regulations.
  
  Boat ramps may not be usable when water levels are low. Caution should be used when launching from gravel or earth surfaces and sandy shorelines. Boat operators should take special care around standing or fallen timber and debris lying above or below the surface. Fallen timber can move with flood run off. Some dams have navigation aids or signage to assist in boating safety.
  
  If using electric motors, ensure your battery is fully charged and an alternative source of power is available. Water flowing over spillways can cause dangerous currents and most impoundments have restricted areas near the spillway, intake tower and dam wall. Strong winds can spring up suddenly in mountainous areas creating short steep waves. Some impoundments do not allow a particular form of boating activity, while others have specific restrictions or permit requirements. Check first with the operating authority. Special aquatic events may be sanctioned at set times and locations.
• General information
  • Vehicle access
    National parks, state forests and private property with leases over the flood plain surround many of the impoundments. Obtain permission from the operating authority or landowner prior to entry. A check of road maps or guides is essential as access roads can be bitumen or bush tracks. Be courteous at all times by closing any gates as required to secure livestock on properties.
  • Camping
    While camping is one of the favourite activities at many of the impoundments, be warned that it is dangerous to camp in the flood perimeter adjacent to the waters edge. Storms or heavy rain in catchment areas can cause a sudden dramatic rise in water levels and carry floating debris. Permits may be required in some areas. Get a permit online and find more information about camping from the Department of Environment and Resource Management.
  • Swimming
    Swimming is a popular pastime but pay attention to signs warning of the danger of swimming near water infrastructure as high volumes of water may be released at any time without warning. It is also advisable to enquire first in case of closure due to blue-green algae blooms.
  • Drinking water
    Although tap water is supplied at many dams, it is often advisable to boil it prior to drinking.
  • Flora and fauna sanctuaries
    These abound in many of the inland waterways with specific restrictions on the carrying and use of firearms and hunting equipment and being accompanied by domestic animals or pets.
  • Freshwater fishing
    Licences and regulations apply to freshwater fishing in Queensland. Closed waters, closed seasons, fishing method and apparatus, size and possession limits on fish (bag limits) can apply. If you are fishing in some of Queensland's dams you are required to purchase and carry a Stocked Impoundment Permit. Visit the Primary Industries and Fisheries website for more information or apply for a permit online.