Theewaterskloof Dam is the seventh largest dam in South Africa, covering an area of approximately 5,100 hectares with a capacity of 483 million cubic metres when full. It was constructed to supply water to the greater Cape Metropolitan area and the Riviersonderend Valley. The dam sits within a landscape of farmlands and mountains along its north eastern shore, offering expansive open water for paddling.

The primary access point for paddlers is through Theewater Sports Club (TSC), which is situated on a peninsula stretching into the dam along its north eastern shore. TSC was founded in 1979 and has grown into one of the largest water sports clubs in the Western Cape. While the club is a private membership organisation offering camping and water sports facilities, the general public is welcome to visit the peninsula. All boat owners, including paddlers, are required to register their vessels at Theewater Sports Club before going out on the dam.

An important biosecurity requirement applies to all watercraft: before launching, boats must pass through a wash bay where they are sprayed by an official to prevent the transmission of invasive aquatic plants. This is a directive from the Department of Environmental Affairs and is non-negotiable. Paddlers should factor this step into their launch planning.

The dam accommodates a wide range of water users, including motorised powerboats and personal watercraft (PWC), sailing vessels, and non-motorised craft. Given the volume and variety of motorised traffic, paddlers should be aware of boat wakes and vessel traffic, particularly during busy periods. TSC has hosted World Championship and National sailing regattas, indicating that the dam can see significant organised event activity. A Water Safety booklet is available through the club, which includes a map of the dam and outlines rules and regulations for all watercraft — paddlers are strongly advised to review this before heading out.

The setting offers views across the dam toward surrounding mountains, and the area supports a variety of wildlife. The sheer scale of the dam — over 5,000 hectares — means paddlers have substantial open water to explore, though the presence of motorised craft across the dam warrants ongoing situational awareness.