Lake Parramatta is a beautiful freshwater lake and surrounding reserve located in North Parramatta, just 2 kilometers north of the Parramatta CBD. This picturesque area offers a range of recreational activities and serves as a haven for local wildlife.
History
- Created in 1856 when Hunts Creek was dammed to provide a water supply for Parramatta
- Served as Parramatta’s main water supply until 1909
- Reopened for public recreation in 2015 after being closed for many years due to poor water quality
Key Features
- 75-hectare reserve surrounding the lake
- Walking tracks through native bushland
- Designated swimming area (the only designated freshwater swimming spot in Western Sydney)
- Picnic and barbecue facilities
- Children’s playground
- Boat ramp for non-motorized watercraft
Activities
- Swimming (seasonal, with lifeguards on duty during summer)
- Bushwalking on three designated tracks:
- She-Oak Track (1.5 km, easy)
- Banksia Track (2.4 km, moderate)
- Lake Circuit (4.2 km, moderate)
- Picnicking and barbecues
- Canoeing and kayaking (BYO or hire on weekends and school holidays)
- Fishing (catch and release only)
- Bird watching
Flora and Fauna
- Native bushland including eucalyptus, angophoras, and various native shrubs
- Home to many bird species, including kookaburras, cockatoos, and water birds
- Reptiles such as water dragons and long-necked turtles
- Native fish species in the lake
Visiting Information
- Location: 28 Bourke Street, North Parramatta NSW 2151
- Open: 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM (or 8:00 PM during daylight savings)
- Entry: Free
- Parking available on-site
Best Times to Visit
- Summer for swimming and water activities
- Spring and autumn for comfortable bushwalking
- Early morning for bird watching
Nearby Attractions
- Parramatta Park: Historic park and UNESCO World Heritage site
- Old Government House: Australia’s oldest surviving public building
- Parramatta CBD: Shopping, dining, and cultural attractions
Lake Parramatta offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities close to the heart of Parramatta. It’s an excellent destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the urban environment without traveling far from the city.
For more information and current conditions, visit the City of Parramatta Council website.
Related: Nature, Sydney Parks and Lakes, Outdoor Activities in Sydney, Swimming Spots in Sydney, Bushwalking in Sydney, Parramatta