Skip to main content

Lake Yarrunga

Boat Ramps
0
Access Points
1
Campsites
1

Lake Yarrunga is a flatwater reservoir in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, located within Morton National Park near Kangaroo Valley, approximately two hours' drive from Sydney. The lake was formed by Tallowa Dam at the junction of the Shoalhaven and Kangaroo rivers, and its arms extend along both the Shoalhaven River and the Kangaroo River, creating a varied and expansive paddling environment. No powered boats are permitted on the water, and there are no rapids, making it well-suited to beginner paddlers and families as well as those seeking longer multi-day expeditions.

The two primary access points are the Bendeela Picnic and Camping Area and Tallowa Dam, both of which offer straightforward kayak launching. The Kangaroo River arm of the lake runs north-east from Tallowa Dam toward Kangaroo Valley, while the Shoalhaven arm extends in the opposite direction. A popular day trip on the Kangaroo River arm runs from Beehive Point to Bendeela, covering approximately 14 kilometres. Beehive Point, located around 15 kilometres from Bendeela on the northern shore, is accessible by 4WD track, though entry from the water is described as difficult. Notable side trips include a paddle into Yarrunga Creek to explore the drowned forest — a stand of dead trees now submerged since the dam's construction — which is approximately 8 kilometres return. Bundanoon Creek, entering from the north-west at around the 19-kilometre mark, is also worth exploring, as is Sandy Creek, a tributary of Bundanoon Creek that features tall dead trees and boulder-lined waterways.

Remote camping is available at several sites along the shoreline, accessible only by canoe or kayak. Kimberley Park and Acacia Flat are two larger sites with bush toilets located around 10 kilometres into the Shoalhaven arm. Smaller sites exist at Yarrunga Creek junction and near Sandy Creek, though these accommodate only a few tents. The Bendeela campground offers water and toilets.

Away from Bendeela and Tallowa Dam, the lake is genuinely remote with no mobile phone reception and very limited vehicle access. Paddlers should be aware of goannas at remote campsites, which are known to target food supplies. Kangaroos, wombats, wedge-tailed eagles, and various snakes are also regularly encountered. Fishing is permitted, with bass and perch reportedly restocked in the lake.


Water access, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Lake Yarrunga. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Paddle smarter with real-time insights

Whether you're en route and conditions shift or you're looking for the best spot based on current flows, we enable you to make informed decisions on the fly.

Find Places to Paddle

Over 400,000 Places to Paddle

Every user gets free access to launch points, boat ramps, and public property parcels.

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to paddle Lake Yarrunga and check the forecast before you go.

Tallowa Dam

Loading flow chart…
Latest
10 yr average

All Flow Stations



Explore New South Wales waters

Top paddling waters

No waters available right now.

Popular Cities

Loading popular cities...

Smarter Paddling Starts in the App.

Paddleways gives you everything you need to plan smarter, paddle better, and own every trip from first launch to takeout.