Things to do
Wilga bush camping area offers secluded camp sites.
Photo credit: Photo: Karen Smith © Queensland Government
A 5 km drive leads through the park's eucalypt and cypress woodland communities.
Photo credit: Robert Ashdown © Queensland Government
Watch waterbirds from the bird hide near the lake's 'neck'.
Photo credit: Karen Smith © Queensland Government
Pack your camera, binoculars or spotting scope. There is much to see at Lake Broadwater.
Photo credit: Robert Ashdown © Queensland Government
Lake Broadwater is a great spot for a picnic.
Photo credit: Karen Smith © Queensland Government
Camping and accommodation
Camping
Stay overnight at one of two camping areas, Lake Broadwater or Wilga Bush camping area.
Lake Broadwater camping area is set near the boat ramp and has toilets, hot and cold showers, barbecues, picnic tables and tap-water (boil or treat before drinking). Set among the forest, 1km from the Lake, Wilga Bush camping area has secluded campsites, open fire places and toilets.
Camping permits are required and fees apply. Permits must be obtained on-site prior to setting up camp.
- Find out more about camping at Lake Broadwater.
Other accommodation
A range of accommodation options are available in Dalby and at other towns in the region. See the tourism information links or consult the local telephone directory or internet.
Walking
Two tracks lead through river red gums and blue gums along the lake edge.
Wilga camping area track
Distance: 4.4km return
Time: 1hr 30mins
Details: This track along the lake's shore joins the two camping areas. It passes the remains of a dingo fence built in the 1860s for St Ruth Station.
Red gum track
Distance: 3km return
Time: 1hr
Details: Learn about the park's vegetation as you skirt the lake. Birdwatching enthusiasts will see many species of bird in the lake-side forest and on the water.
What to take on walks
- Carry drinking water and nutritious snacks.
- Wear sturdy shoes, a hat and sunscreen and apply insect repellent.
- Carry a first-aid kit.
Picnic and day-use areas
Have a picnic under the shady river red gums and blue gums at the lake edge. A recreation area situated on the western shore of Lake Broadwater has picnic tables, toilets, showers, barbecues, a boat ramp, childrens' play equipment and a community hall. The recreation area is adjacent to, but not part of, the conservation park and is managed by the Western Downs Regional Council. To hire the hall phone (07) 4663 3555.
Boating
Motorised boating and water skiing are permitted on the main body of the lake only, when sufficient depth of water allows.
- Boating permits are required prior to launching.
- No boats are permitted in the 'neck' area of the lake which is a designated waterfowl refuge.
- Boating is permitted from 6:00am to sundown only. All boats must be removed from the water before sunset.
Permits are not required for non-motorised water craft. However, the 'neck' area of the lake is closed to all forms of watercraft at all times.
Contact the Lake Broadwater caretaker on (07) 4663 3562 to check if conditions are suitable for these activities as the lake can dry out for lengthy periods. The caretaker can also provide details on obtaining a boating permit.
Viewing wildlife
Lake Broadwater is a great spot for birdwatching with more than 230 species of birds recorded in the park.
The lake is a valuable feeding and breeding ground for waterfowl and attracts ducks, moorhens, grebes, cormorants, darters, herons, swans, stilts, black-necked storks, brolgas and many migratory wading birds. White-bellied sea-eagles can be seen nesting at the lake when optimal conditions exist. A bird hide located near the neck of the lake provides ideal cover for viewing waterbirds.
Long-necked turtles, fish, frogs and other freshwater animals live in the lake; while kangaroos, forest birds and many terrestrial animals inhabit the surrounding woodland.
See nature, culture and history for more details about the Lake Broadwater's diverse wildlife.
Other things to do
Lake Broadwater is a great place to relax at any time of year, with the lake and wildlife providing many photographic opportunities.
You can swim in the lake, but stay well away from areas where people boat and ski.
Fishing and yabbying is not permitted at Lake Broadwater.
- There are currently no park alerts for this park.