Lake Gordon is Tasmania's largest lake and the largest in Australia, covering approximately 27,800 hectares (278 square kilometres) with a storage capacity of around 12,400 gigalitres. It is an artificial reservoir created by the Gordon Dam, a 140-metre-high double-curvature concrete arch dam across the Gordon River, constructed between 1964 and 1974. The lake sits in the South West region of Tasmania, within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, roughly two hours' drive from Hobart via the A10 to New Norfolk, then the B62 to Westerway and the B61 through National Park to Strathgordon.

There are two boat launching areas available. One is located near Gordon Dam, and the other is at Boat Ramp Road in the Ragged Basin area — accessed off Strathgordon Road, approximately 9 kilometres west of the Scotts Peak turnoff, via about 3 kilometres of gravel track. The Boat Ramp Road site sits within State Forest, meaning a National Park pass is not required there, and it saves approximately 30 kilometres of driving compared to the Gordon Dam ramp.

Several areas on the lake are prohibited for navigation: within 100 metres of the intake, between the designated signs and Gordon Dam, and within McPartlan Canal. Paddlers should be aware that both Lake Gordon and the adjacent Lake Pedder are exposed to extreme and rapid weather changes, with hazardous conditions capable of developing at any time of year with little warning. Submerged timber is a significant additional hazard throughout the lake.

A Facebook post from a solo kayaking group describes the paddling experience on Lake Gordon as moving through an "eerie landscape," referencing the dramatic flooded terrain and the imposing presence of the Gordon Dam. The scale of the lake — drawn from a catchment area of over 2,000 square kilometres — means paddlers are navigating a vast, remote body of water in a wilderness setting.

Facilities in the area include accommodation at Strathgordon Village and Pedder Wilderness Lodge, located on the shores of nearby Lake Pedder. Barbecue areas and car parking are available in the vicinity. The lake is managed as a wild trout fishery by the Inland Fisheries Service, with fishing subject to specific regulations including minimum size, bag limits, and artificial lures and flies only during the designated season.