Rust de Winter Dam is a 500-hectare reservoir located within the Rust de Winter Nature Reserve in the southern Limpopo Province, near Hammanskraal, approximately 90 minutes north of Johannesburg. The reserve covers 1,650 hectares and encompasses diverse terrain including bushveld and riverine forests. The dam's coordinates are approximately 25°13′39″S, 28°30′04″E.

Boating is permitted on the dam, and a boat launch is located near the dam wall. Paddlers accessing the water via the river upstream can travel through a no-wake zone in the lower river section, which has been designated as a bird sanctuary. From there, paddlers can proceed into the main dam. Camping sites are available along the water's edge, and the area around the dam wall is also used for bank fishing.

The most critical safety consideration for paddlers is the presence of both crocodiles and hippos in the dam. Swimming is explicitly prohibited because of crocodiles. Paddlers should adhere strictly to any safety instructions provided by guides or reserve staff. The northern shores of the reservoir feature gentle slopes where migratory waders congregate during summer months.

Wildlife visible from the water includes waterbuck, zebra, warthog, bushpig, kudu, crocodile, and aardvark. The reserve has recorded over 400 bird species, reflecting the variety of habitats present. Notable species include wood sandpiper, buttonquail, penduline tit, crimson-breasted shrike, and Burchell's starling. Migratory waders are most numerous during summer. The northern shore area, sometimes referred to as the "salad bowl," contains extensive water vegetation that provides habitat for largemouth bass and other fish species.

The reserve is described as a relatively remote location, offering a quiet environment away from urban areas. The area is malaria-free. Facilities available to visitors include camping sites along the water, a boat launch, and walking trails within the reserve. The dam is accessible via the road between Pienaarsriver and Rust de Winter (the D626). The reserve can be contacted at +27 12 808 9901.