Vanderkloof Dam sits on the Orange River in the Northern Cape and Free State provinces of South Africa, forming a reservoir that stretches approximately 100 kilometres downstream from the Gariep Dam. It is South Africa's second largest dam, with a capacity of around 3,171 million cubic metres, and is home to one of only two hydroelectric power stations in the country.

The primary Vanderkloof Boat Club, located safely upriver from the dam wall, which serves as both a launch and take-out point. Multi-day touring trips typically cover around 25 kilometres on the first day of paddling, with camping along the shoreline. Notable features along the route include Bird Island and an adjacent nature reserve, as well as Hornet Island and a landform known as Osplaat, where feral cattle have been stranded for years. Wide sandy beaches are scattered along the dam's shores and serve as natural campsites.

The dam is known for a strong prevailing wind that can develop, particularly in the afternoons, and paddlers should factor this into daily planning. Afternoon temperatures can reach 34 degrees Celsius, making early starts advisable. The dam wall itself presents an obvious hazard, and paddlers must ensure they take out at the boat club well upriver of the wall.

Wildlife in the area includes fish eagles, various buck species that come to the water's edge, and diverse birdlife. The dam supports populations of yellowfish (both largemouth and smallmouth), barbel, and carp, which adds to the overall character of the environment.

Organised multi-day kayaking trips of between one and five days are offered by Adventure Kayaking, based in the town of Vanderkloof. These trips use touring kayaks suited to flat-water paddling and require a fair level of fitness. Groups of between 8 and 18 people are catered for. Accommodation options near the launch site include Stoney Rapids Lodge and Sandgat camping resort. The operator also provides kayak hire, safety gear, and land support for independent expeditions.