Best places to get on, in and around the water in the Tamworth region
With hot summers in the Tamworth region the best way to get out and about without slowly melting is to head towards the water.
With an abundance of places to explore, why not partake in a great Australian past-time – getting out onto the water – this summer?
Gone fishin'
Hitting the great outdoors to throw a line in is the perfect way to wind down in your free time, and we’ve got some fantastic fishing holes right here in the Tamworth region for you to explore.
Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm
Fish for Rainbow Trout with all fishing gear supplied.
Chaffey Dam
Try your luck hooking Murray Cod, Silver and Golden Perch (Yellow Belly), Catfish or Rainbow Trout.
Lake Keepit
Famous for its fishing, watch out for local varieties of Silver and Golden Perch (Yellow Belly), Murray Cod and Catfish.
Sheba Dams
Fish for rainbow trout from the bank or from a kayak in peaceful surroundings.
Split Rock Dam
There’s no shortage of fish here, including Murray Cod, Silver and Golden Perch (Yellow Belly) and Catfish.
Walk on water
It’s one of the great summer past-times in Australia; what better way to spend a weekend than down by the water with a bunch of mates. Whether you’re skiing, knee-boarding, or biscuiting, a seasoned professional or just learning the ropes, there are some awesome spots for you put the boat in right on our doorstep.
Chaffey Dam
With several boat ramps available on the lake foreshore, there’s plenty of space for everyone out here.
Lake Keepit
The Lake Keepit State Park has several boat ramps for easy boat access.
Split Rock Dam
Head 1km north of the dam wall on the western foreshore for concrete boat ramp access. There’s also a gravel boat ramp accessible at Glen Riddle Reserve on the northern shore of the dam’s upper reaches.
Take a dip
Chaffey Dam (Bowling Alley Point Recreation Reserve)
The recreation reserve is a popular spot for swimming.
Lake Keepit
Jump into the dam, or head to the Water Park at Reflections Holiday Park
Horton Falls National Park
Follow the walking track down to a small swimming hole in this spectacular location.
McDonald River
Head up the New England Highway to Bendemeer and cool off in the McDonald River running through town.
Sheba Dams
Sheba Dams boasts a pier for easy access to the water for swimming in a serene environment surrounded by natural bushland.
Split Rock Dams
Head to Glenriddle Reserve for a great spot to jump in the water.
Warrabah National Park
With the Namoi River passing through the park, swimming holes are abundant here including at Warrabah campground and picnic area, and Gum Hole.
Sail away
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, why not get in touch with the Lake Keepit Sailing Club for lessons with boats and jackets supplied and lunch provided. They also hire out sailing boats and kayaks for those with a bit more experience.
Where to find it all
With a hot summer upon us and festivities over for another year, the best way to get out and about without slowly melting is to head towards the water.
Arc-en-Ciel Trout Farm
Head up into the hills through Hanging Rock above Nundle, about 80km south-east of Tamworth where Arc-en-Ciel Rainbow Trout have been hatching and growing for over thirty years. Its open Sunday, Monday and Friday between 10am and 4pm. Bookings are preferred.
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Chaffey Dam
43kms south-east of Tamworth and on the way to Nundle. Its open 24 hours, all year round with free entry and $5 parking (per car) at Bowling Alley Point Recreation Reserve. Pets permitted.
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Lake Keepit
55kms north-west of Tamworth, the dam grounds are open 24 hours, all year round with free entry. It’s also the home of Reflections Holiday Park, where you can find a BMX track, tennis courts, skate bowl, water park, playgrounds and even a café, whilst the Lake Keepit Sailing Club provides sailing lessons and experiences just nearby. Pets not permitted in the camping area.
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Sheba Dams
Located east of Hanging Rock in the hills above Nundle, Sheba Dams allows free access and camping year-round.
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Horton Falls National Park
Located off Fossickers Way near Barraba, Horton Falls National Park is the home of spectacular waterfalls during wet periods, with views from two vantage points.
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Warrabah National Park
About 83km from Tamworth, the park is open all year round however may close due to fire danger or flooding. Pets and smoking are not permitted.
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Split Rock Dam
70kms north-west of Tamworth and located between Manilla and Barraba. It’s open 24 hours, all year round. Pets are permitted.
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