Ballarat's Waterholes

If I told you we are about to encounter a heatwave in the high 30's where would you go to cool off? Would you be disappointed if I said we are going inland to Ballarat? Like everyone else we looked into places to stay cool during the heat. The obvious inland public locations were not an option to us due to our four legged K9's. This helped us to find some natural waterholes that were dog friendly. You would be surprised how many State Parks, Reserves, Creeks and Lakes Ballarat and its surroundings has.

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Our Top Water Destinations

Pykes Creek Reservoir

30 minutes from Ballarat and close to the ever popular Daylesford is Pykes Creek. This Reservoir can be seen from the Western Freeway as you pass Ballan. This is a popular destination for the water sport enthusiasts with many speed boats and jet skis lapping the lake. If you are like us and enjoy the simple things, drive to the end of the road to find a quiet spot under a tree and enjoy a paddle in the fresh water. Many trees for shade or even tie your selective hearing pup (Molly) to but still enough room for your more responsive dog (Banjo) to enjoy the freedom going in and out of the water.

Public Toilets and kids playground

St Georges Lake

On the outskirts of Creswick is this popular local swimming hole, St Georges Lake. Once a mining dam known as Govvy Dam is now a recreation destination for walking, swimming and photography. With a large open grass area it is the perfect location for a picnic and dip. We opted for a more private scenery hidden amongst the trees which was perfect for us and the dogs.

Public Toilets and BBQ Facilities

Lake Wendoureer

If you prefer to surround yourself by water and not submerge your body then Lake Wendoureer is for you. Ballarat's most popular lake has lots to offer for all walks of life. The 6km Steve Moneghetti Track circles the entire lake with an array of different bird wild life. There are many different locations to stop and take in the beautiful scenery or even watch the athlete rowers. After enjoying a delicious meal from many of the restaurants to choose

from across the road is the Botanic Gardens.

Public Toilets, water stations and playgrounds

Blackwood Mineral Springs

This was one of our favourite spots to cool off. Even though it was only a small creek, the shelter from the forrest blocks the heat out. With a small $3 donation we were able to enjoy the comfort of our car in close proximity with many picnic tables to choose from. Even through the caravan park backs onto the creek there was plenty of room to find our own space.

Public Toilets and BBQ facilities

Lal Lal Falls

Driving to Lal La Falls you wouldn't expect to find a waterfall in the middle of no where. Although it doesn't flow in the dry season, it is spectacularly to visit in the wet season. You can view the landscape from a platform in front of the waterfall, at the top or around the scenic walking tracks. You cannot access the water but there are some rock pools above.

Public Toilets, water station and BBQ facilities

Bostock Reservoir

We were quite surprised with Bostock Reservoir as we drove through the dirt track to get there. We were greeted with a large picnic area and newly built toilet block. However the toilet block might not be to everyones taste with gaps in the wood and re-used toilets. But if you look pass this it was a great remote toilet facility. Enough about the toilet, the reservoir was great to explore as we walked around with many locations for people to stop and fish. A nice location

to sit, walk and relax.

Public Toilets and BBQ facilities

Thanks for stopping by ✌️