
Ben Chifley Dam
A tranquil reservoir offering scenic views, picnic spots, and free camping near Bathurst.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful

Ben Chifley Dam
Best Time
Quiet and peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil reservoir offering scenic views, picnic spots, and free camping near Bathurst.
"Great spot for a picnic or a quiet evening with lovely views."

🚶♀️ Dam Wall Exploration
Walk the dam wall and steps to the spillway for great views and a good workout! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of picnic tables, BBQs, and undercover areas make for a perfect day out. :picnic_table:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dam Wall Walk
Dam Wall
Stroll along the impressive dam wall for panoramic views of the water and landscape. A great workout!

Picnic & BBQ Facilities
Various locations around the dam
Enjoy a leisurely picnic with well-maintained BBQs and undercover areas. Perfect for families and groups.

Free Camping Area
Designated camping zone
Experience a peaceful overnight stay with basic facilities. Remember to leave no trace and respect the environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Peaceful Picnic & Free Camping
Dam Wall Walk & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Dam Wall Exploration
Walk the dam wall and steps to the spillway for great views and a good workout! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of picnic tables, BBQs, and undercover areas make for a perfect day out. :picnic_table:
🏕️ Respect Free Camp
If camping, follow rules and leave no trace to keep it pristine for everyone. :camping:
🎣 Fishing Fun
Enjoy a spot of fishing in the dam waters. :fishing_pole:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Dam Wall Exploration
Walk the dam wall and steps to the spillway for great views and a good workout! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Plenty of picnic tables, BBQs, and undercover areas make for a perfect day out. :picnic_table:
🏕️ Respect Free Camp
If camping, follow rules and leave no trace to keep it pristine for everyone. :camping:
🎣 Fishing Fun
Enjoy a spot of fishing in the dam waters. :fishing_pole:
🚫 No Swimming
Remember, swimming is not permitted in the dam. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ben Chifley Dam for its peaceful atmosphere, excellent picnic facilities, and the opportunity for free camping. The dam wall walk is a popular activity for its views and exercise. Some note the absence of swimming, but overall, it's considered a well-maintained and enjoyable natural spot.
"What a great spot. Plenty of picnic tables, BBQs and undercover areas. Feeling energetic? Walk along the dam wall then down the steps to the spillway. Great views and a great workout!"
NSW Creeks and Rivers
"Free camp only 21 min from town. View of dam and water with toilets walking distance outside camp. No swimming allowed but has running water at taps in camp area. Bob Carr on plaque next to Ben Chifley memorial who built a desalinisation plant and expanded capacity."
Neil Bridgewater
"What an amazing place to free camp.
Good facilities. Very well presented.
Please follow the rules and leave no trace.
It helps all of us."
Lindsay Eden
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ben Chifley Dam is located approximately 22km from Bathurst, NSW. You can drive there via the Mitchell Highway and then follow local signage. The drive is scenic and takes about 20-30 minutes.
Public transport options to Ben Chifley Dam are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling if traveling with others.
The roads leading to Ben Chifley Dam are generally well-maintained, especially the main routes from Bathurst. However, always check local road conditions before you travel, especially after heavy rain.
While the dam area is generally accessible, it's advisable to check specific opening hours or any restrictions for nighttime access, especially if planning to use facilities like BBQs or camping areas.
Yes, there is ample parking available at Ben Chifley Dam, particularly near the picnic areas and the dam wall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ben Chifley Dam is generally free. This makes it a popular and accessible destination for picnics and day trips.
Ben Chifley Dam is typically open to visitors during daylight hours. Specific facility operating times, like BBQs, may vary.
No, booking in advance is not usually required for day visits to Ben Chifley Dam. It's a public access area.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. Ensure you take all rubbish with you. Alcohol policies may apply, so check local regulations.
Absolutely! Ben Chifley Dam is an ideal spot for a day trip, offering picnic facilities, scenic views, and opportunities for light recreation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
No, swimming is not permitted at Ben Chifley Dam. Visitors can enjoy the views and other activities.
You can enjoy picnicking, walking along the dam wall, fishing, and simply relaxing by the water. There are also BBQs available.
Yes, toilet facilities are available at Ben Chifley Dam, particularly near the camping and picnic areas.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, it's generally recommended to check local council regulations regarding pets in park and dam areas. Always keep dogs on a leash if permitted.
You might spot various birdlife, including ducks, and potentially other local fauna in the surrounding natural areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no cafes or restaurants directly at Ben Chifley Dam. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks for picnics.
Yes, there are BBQ facilities available for public use at Ben Chifley Dam. Remember to bring your own cooking essentials.
For a wider range of dining options, you would need to travel back to Bathurst, which offers various cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets.
Yes, running water is available at taps in the camping area, which can be used for drinking and general purposes.
Pack picnic essentials like food, drinks, plates, cutlery, and any cooking supplies for the BBQs. Don't forget rubbish bags to ensure a 'leave no trace' experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam wall offers great vantage points for wide shots. The surrounding landscape and water reflections are also picturesque. Consider the spillway for dramatic angles.
Yes, Ben Chifley Dam provides beautiful landscape photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is soft and golden.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography. Early mornings can also be peaceful and offer soft light.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or the dam operators for any restrictions on drone flights before you fly.
The combination of the imposing dam structure, the vast water body, and the natural surroundings offers unique photographic potential. Film photography enthusiasts have also captured its essence.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Dam Wall and Spillway
Remember that the steps can be steep, so wear appropriate footwear. The dam wall itself is a feat of engineering, and understanding its purpose can add to the appreciation of the visit. It's a fantastic spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Free Camping Experience
Travelers emphasize the importance of 'leave no trace' principles when using the free camping facilities. This means packing out all rubbish and respecting the natural environment to ensure the area remains pristine for future visitors. The proximity to Bathurst also makes it a convenient base for exploring the region.
Picnic and Recreation
While swimming is not allowed, the serene environment encourages relaxation and appreciation of the natural beauty. Fishing is also mentioned as a possible activity, adding another dimension to the recreational offerings.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit