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Looking for new rivers and reservoirs to explore with the kayak in the Victorian Goldfields? We've gathered this collection of over 15 ideal local spots to bring your kayak or canoe for an afternoon of adventure on the water!
CAMPASPE RIVER AT AYSONS CAMPGROUND, burnewang vic
The Campaspe River at Aysons Campground, Burnewang VIC
Aysons is a fantastic free camping area along the Campaspe River, 40 minutes from Bendigo. A popular spot for boating, fishing and swimming, the river is wide here and is easily accessed via a boat ramp alongside the campground.
Tullaroop Reservoir, majorca vic
Sunset views from the middle of Tullaroop Reservoir, Majorca VIC
Tullaroop Reservoir has recently been opened up to non-powered boats with the addition of a boat ramp at the picnic area. This large reservoir is beautiful to explore on a kayak, and you can make your way over to Rodborough School Island as well.
Note: Tullaroop Reservoir is currently closed for boating - please see this website for updates.
Loddon River at Janevale Bridge, laanecoorie vic
Heading downstream on the Loddon River, Laanecoorie VIC
This scenic river trail begins at the campground in Laanecoorie and heads downstream, where you will encounter secluded picnic spots, beautiful views and gentle rapids. There are some natural obstacles which are easy to navigate, and a small cascade alongside a picnic area. The cascade can either be tackled on the kayak or you can easily exit the water to go around it. Alternatively you can head upstream, under the historic Janevale Bridge to the nearby Laanecoorie Reservoir Weir.
Laanecoorie Reservoir, laanecoorie vic
View from the weir at Laanecoorie VIC
The Laanecoorie Reservoir is a gorgeous kayaking spot, with access from both the Brownbill Reserve and Ankers Causeway Picnic Area. You can explore the reservoir and even head upstream into the Loddon River, which travels past the Waanyarra Bushland Reserve nearby - a great spot to head to for a packed picnic lunch.
Click for more info on Brownbill Reserve near the weir, Ankers Causeway on the other side of the reservoir, and the Waanyarra Bushland Reserve where the Loddon River enters the reservoir.
Note: Laanecoorie Reservoir is not currently open for boating. See this website for updates.
Englishs Bridge streamside reserve, goornong VIC
Beautiful spot on the Campaspe River at Englishs Bridge, Goornong VIC
Explore the beautiful Campaspe River from Englishs Bridge, a peaceful spot for free camping, picnics, swimming, fishing and kayaking/canoeing. The water can be easily accessed from beside the bridge.
Rocky Crossing, Goornong VIC
Looking upstream from Rocky Crossing Campground, Goorning VIC
Rocky Crossing is a picturesque spot on the Campaspe River, with both a shallow rocky section (great for relaxing in the water) and a wide, deep section alongside the campground (great for kayaking/canoeing). The water by the campground can be tricky to access with a steep bank heading down to the water, but if you feel up to the task of hauling your kayak back up the bank when you get out, then this wide section of the river is a great place to explore.
Lake Eppalock, Eppalock VIC
View over a small section of the vast Lake Eppalock, Eppalock VIC
Lake Eppalock is a vast reservoir near Bendigo, with many different sections to explore by boat. This reservoir is fantastic for boating, fishing, swimming and barbecues, with a multiple picnic areas and boat ramps situated at various points around the water.
Crusoe Reservoir, Bendigo VIC
Crusoe Reservoir, Bendigo VIC
Crusoe Reservoir is a beautiful little spot on the outskirts of Bendigo which is surrounded by bushland and walking tracks. This is a great place to spend an afternoon kayaking and swimming.
Barkers Creek Reservoir, Harcourt VIC
Barkers Creek Reservoir, Harcourt VIC
Barkers Creek Reservoir in Harcourt has recently been opened up for non-powered boating with the addition of a boat ramp. This small but scenic reservoir is a great spot to go for kayaking and fishing.
Pykes Creek Reservoir, Myrniong VIC
Looking out to the island at Pykes Creek Reservoir, Myrniong VIC
A fantastic spot for boating, fishing, swimming and picnicking, Pykes Creek Reservoir is a gorgeous spot to bring the kayaks. Explore the far side of the reservoir or head over to the central island, but be wary of motor boats travelling at high speeds.
Lake Burrumbeet, Burrumbeet VIC
Views over Lake Burrumbeet, Burrumbeet VIC
Located close to Ballarat, Lake Burrumbeet is a massive lake packed with wildlife and scenic spots to explore. Multiple access points around the reservoir make this a perfect and versatile spot for kayaking, as well as boating, fishing, swimming, free camping and picnicking.
Click for more info on Lake Burrumbeet Park, Lake Burrumbeet Foreshore Camping Area, and Dobsons Lane Boat Ramp.
Beaufort Lake, Beaufort VIC
The gorgeous Beaufort Lake, Beaufort VIC
Bring the kayaks and explore the beautiful Beaufort Lake, a great place to spend an afternoon boating, swimming, fishing and walking. This is a fairly small lake but it offers scenic views and a peaceful setting.
Skinners Flat Reservoir, near Wedderburn VIC
View alongside the island at Skinners Flat Reservoir, near Wedderburn VIC
Skinners Flat Reservoir is a great place for free camping, boating, fishing and bushwalking. Best visited in the cooler months for high water levels, you can take scenic laps of the reservoir or head over to explore the central island. A boat ramp is situated alongside the picnic area, and free camping is permitted along the shore.
St Georges Lake, Creswick VIC
Beautiful views over St Georges Lake, Creswick VIC
Once a mining dam known as "Govvy Dam", St Georges Lake in Creswick has been developed into a picturesque haven for relaxation and recreation. This is a gorgeous spot for kayaking, where you can paddle over to check out the old pier and head around the shore on the far side, taking in the beautiful views beneath the towering pine trees.
Green Hill Lake, Ararat VIC
Alongside the campground at Green Hill Lake, Ararat VIC
Green Hill Lake is a great spot for camping, boating, swimming, fishing and picnics, located just out of Ararat. The large lake is excellent to explore via kayak, and is a great spot to spend an entire weekend by the water.
Cairn Curran Reservoir, Baringhup VIC
Cairn Curran Reservoir, Baringhup VIC
Cairn Curran Reservoir is a fantastic spot for boating, fishing, swimming and barbecues, which can be accessed from multiple points both in Baringhup and over on the other side in Joyces Creek.
Click for more info on Cairn Curran Reservoir in Baringhup, Cairn Curran Weir, and Picnic Point in Joyces Creek.
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