Lake Eucumbene is a large reservoir in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, situated at an elevation of approximately 1,200 metres above sea level. Created when dam construction was completed in 1958 as part of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, it is the largest of the Snowy Scheme lakes, holding roughly nine times the volume of Sydney Harbour. The closest town is Adaminaby, and the lake lies around 40 kilometres from Cooma at its nearest point.

The lake has numerous arms and bays that offer varied paddling terrain. The Frying Pan Arm is one notable area, extending for several kilometres with bays, headlands, and soaks along its shores. Paddlers can launch kayaks from the public gravel track near the Frying Pan Arm when water levels permit, or from the Frying Pan campground where vehicle access allows bank launching. Buckenderra is another established access point, located approximately five kilometres from the northern entrance to the Frying Pan Arm, and offers facilities including camping at low cost. Other access areas include Middlingbank, Old Adaminaby, Anglers Reach, and Yen's Bay.

The lake's alpine elevation means conditions can change, and wind exposure is a consideration when planning routes. The Frying Pan Arm provides shelter from most winds, making it a more reliable paddling destination in variable weather. The lake holds both rainbow trout and brown trout, which are regularly restocked by NSW Fisheries, making it a popular destination for anglers who also use kayaks to access fishing grounds.

The surrounding landscape features alpine scenery with rock and shale banks, weedy bays with boulders, and areas of pin rushes. The lake is open to a range of watercraft including kayaks, canoes, and motorised vessels. The NSW Government operates a live webcam on the lake and emphasises that lifejackets should be worn at all times on the water.

The lake and surrounding region are accessible year-round, with activities available across all seasons. Winter can bring snow to the area given the alpine elevation, which is worth factoring into trip planning. The Frying Pan Arm in particular is noted as a productive paddling and fishing destination in both mid-winter and mid-summer.