Greater Brandvlei Dam sits near Worcester in the Western Cape, formed by the joining of the original Brandvlei Dam (Lake Marais) and the adjacent Kwaggaskloof Dam following reconstruction in 1989. The reservoir covers approximately 4,110 hectares with a total storage capacity of around 459 million cubic metres, making it one of the larger inland water bodies in the Western Cape. The surrounding landscape includes mountains and vineyards, and the dam's primary purpose is irrigation for the Breede River valley's agricultural region. When water levels are low, an earthen wall becomes visible separating the two original dam basins.

The two main access points for paddlers are the Worcester Yacht Club (WYC) and the Queenspark Watersport Club (QWC), both of which permit non-members to access the dam. WYC also offers accommodation for non-members. Both clubs maintain strict safety rules for launching, and vessels must carry the required documentation, including a Buoyancy Certificate, which must be presented before launching — non-compliant boats will not be permitted on the water. During the summer season, WYC operates a rescue team on duty for watersport participants. Kite surfing access is also available through Tierkloof 4x4, an adjacent camping facility.

Kayaking and canoeing are explicitly listed among the permitted activities on the dam, alongside sailing, windsurfing, and recreational boating. The dam's expansive surface and generally calm conditions suit a range of paddling styles. The Worcester Yacht Club organises sailing regattas and events, which paddlers should be aware of when planning visits. Jet skis are restricted to campers staying more than two nights, which helps limit motorised traffic for day-use paddlers.

Anglers frequent the dam for carp, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, Cape Witfish, and Gilcristela, with the dam reportedly considered one of the best smallmouth bass fishing areas in the country. A freshwater angling licence from CapeNature is required for fishing. Illegal access to the dam does occur via private roads and adjacent properties, which can result in unregistered or unsafe vessels on the water — a consideration for paddlers assessing on-water conditions. No formalised hiking trails exist around the shoreline, though people do walk the area informally.