Barkers Creek Reservoir is a historic water storage facility located near Harcourt in central Victoria, situated on Dja Dja Wurrung Country. Originally opened in 1868 to service local orchards and farms in the region, it continues to provide rural irrigation today and has been opened to recreational paddlers as part of the Victorian Government's Target One Million initiative.

Kayaks, canoes, and small portable craft (car toppers) are permitted on the reservoir during daylight hours only. Boats with petrol outboard motors may be brought to the water but the motors cannot be used; only paddle power and electric motors are permitted. Electric-motor-powered craft must travel below 5 knots. Lifejackets are mandatory while on the water. Swimming, towed water activities, sail-powered craft, paddleboarding, inflatables, and drone usage are not permitted. Camping and fires are also prohibited.

Access is via a dedicated boat ramp that was constructed and subsequently upgraded, along with defined car parking bays and a new road entry point. There is a single entry and exit point for watercraft. Facilities on site include a car park, seating, toilets, and walking paths. Dogs are permitted but must be kept on leads.

The reservoir has been stocked with fish, making it a popular destination for anglers who paddle. Golden perch fingerlings were introduced, and the reservoir receives annual winter trout stockings, with numbers increased to 10,000 rainbow trout per year. Catchable Murray cod have also been released, including tagged fish as part of the Golden Tag competition. Prior to the opening of on-water access, fishing was limited to the banks, so paddling has significantly expanded the fishable area of the reservoir.

The surrounding Harcourt district is known for apple orchards and wine grape growing, reflecting the agricultural character of the valley the reservoir serves. The water body sits within a landscape managed by Coliban Water, and visitors are asked to respect Dja Dja Wurrung cultural heritage, avoid disturbing soil, plants, or wildlife, and not remove timber or natural materials from the site.