Koombooloomba Dam
Koombooloomba Dam
- Boat Ramps
- 0
- Access Points
- 0
- Campsites
- 2
Koombooloomba Dam is a concrete gravity dam impounding the Tully River at Koombooloomba, located west of Tully and south-southeast of Ravenshoe in Far North Queensland, Australia. The dam, opened in 1960 and owned by CleanCo Queensland, was built for hydroelectric power generation and creates Lake Koombooloomba. The dam wall stands 40 metres high and 399 metres in length.
Access to the dam is via Tully Falls Road from Ravenshoe. Roads to the dam are accessible by conventional vehicles with high clearance, though four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended. A dedicated Boatramp Track and picnic area are accessible via Boatramp Track. Camping is available in the area, with camping permits required and bookable in advance through the Queensland National Parks booking platform. The camping area in the adjacent Koombooloomba Conservation Park has a wheelchair-accessible toilet, though no wheelchair-accessible facilities exist within Koombooloomba National Park itself.
The reservoir is popular for kayaking and paddle boarding, with the water noted for its crystal-clear appearance. The dam is also a well-known fishing destination, stocked with barramundi through an active restocking program. A Stocked Impoundment Permit (SIP) is required for anyone 18 years and over who wishes to fish. Koombooloomba Dam is one of the few locations where barramundi can be legally targeted during the standard closed season (1 November to 31 January), making it a year-round fishing destination.
An important safety consideration for paddlers is the dam's role as a hydroelectric facility. Water releases can occur rapidly and without warning, transforming calm water into dangerous conditions within minutes. Access roads to the hydroelectric power stations are restricted and must not be entered. Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) places restrictions on the use of vessels with engines over 3 kW depending on the dam's water level; paddlers should consult current MSQ notices for mariners before visiting. The surrounding area falls within the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, and the dam is not part of Koombooloomba National Park or Conservation Park.
Water access, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Koombooloomba Dam. 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.
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