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The intake tower at North Dandalup Dam, surrounded by water
Constructed in 1994, North Dandalup Dam is the newest dam serving Perth. Its attractive setting on the North Dandalup River, excellent recreation facilities and coastal views make it a popular destination for picnics.

 

Visitor information

Opening hours

December – April hours:

Every day until 6pm. 

May – November hours:

Every day until 5pm. 

While we aim to ensure our dam sites open by 8:30am each day, opening hours may vary. The dam may also be closed at times due to maintenance or extreme weather. 

Please note that the toilets are locked when the dam closes each day. 

For the latest information on opening times, or assistance during your visit to the dam, please contact 13 13 75.

To stay up-to-date on bushfire warnings and other local emergencies, visit Emergency WA.

Things to do at North Dandalup Dam

Picnic areasBarbecuesToiletsParking

Map of the facilities

A map of the facilities available at North Dandalup Dam

Enjoy a picnic or barbecue lunch

The lovely grassed area by the lake is perfect for enjoying a picnic. The lake is south of the North Dandalup Dam wall, bordered by picturesque forest trees. 

You can also use the free gas barbecues to make your own hot lunch.

Please note that the picnic areas can’t be booked and are only available on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you are planning a large gathering or event at the dam, you'll need to let us know in advance. Please contact our team on 13 13 75.

Take a scenic walk

Walk across the two saddle dams to absorb the distant views of Mandurah, Peel Inlet, and the Indian Ocean, or take a stroll across the old Pipehead Dam wall. 

Safety information

No dogsNo swimmingNo canoeingNo fishing or marroningNo campingNo lighting firesNo off-road drivingNo drones

North Dandalup Dam is a protected drinking water source. Please follow these simple rules to protect yourself and our water supply.

  • Keep to the permitted pathways, roads, and recreational areas as shown by the signage.  
  • Don’t climb walls, fences, bridges, pipework, or other operational infrastructure.  
  • Keep emergency and operational access gates and roadways clear.  
  • Don’t operate taps, valves or controls. 

Learn more about how we work to manage water quality.

Location and directions

North Dandalup Dam is located in the Darling Scarp, just over an hour’s drive south from the Perth CBD.
 
Follow the directions below to the dam or get directions from your location in Google Maps.

  1. From Perth, take Kwinana Freeway, or Tonkin or Albany Highway to Armadale.
  2. Follow South Western Highway for 45km to Hines Road, North Dandalup. 
  3. Turn left and continue for 6km until you reach the dam.

 

Planning your visit

To keep our water sources clean and safe to drink, swimming is not permitted in the reservoir or in the streams flowing into it.

Swimming in the lake is also not permitted as harmful microorganisms may be present in the water.

If the water exceeds a certain temperature and it goes up your nose while swimming, there's a risk of contracting amoebic meningitis. This is a potentially deadly brain infection.

For more information about the risks of amoebic meningitis and how to protect yourself, please visit the Department of Health website.

There are no maintained walking trails at North Dandalup Dam. However, if you’re a keen cyclist, the Munda Biddi Trail passes through the area.

Camping is not permitted on the lawn or immediate areas around North Dandalup Dam. However, the nearby Dandalup Campground is open to campers.

To protect our water supply and local environment, dogs are not permitted at North Dandalup Dam.

To ensure our dam’s water quality is protected, fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities are not permitted. 

  • Bring enough food and water to stay hydrated while exploring the dam and its surrounds.
  • Be prepared for uneven ground or walking hazards by wearing comfortable and appropriate footwear.
  • Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the scenery!

Please report unmarked safety hazards, suspicious behaviour, damaged facilities, or pollution to 13 13 75.

Please note there may be limited or no mobile phone coverage in the area. We advise checking what network coverage is available with your mobile phone service provider ahead of your visit.

There are ambulant toilets available in the upper toilet blocks near the Intake Tower and recreational grassed area.

Please see the map of the facilities for more accessibility information.

Learn more by exploring our rainfall and dams section.