A little over mid-way between Tamworth and Gunnedah in northern New South Wales, you will find Lake Keepit Dam. We had heard lots about what a great spot it was so we thought this was the perfect opportunity to check it out.
Lake Keepit, (also known as Keepit Dam) is the main water supply for households and farms in the Namoi Valley. It holds in excess of 425,000 megalitres of water making it around two thirds the size of Sydney Harbour.
ACCOMMODATION AT LAKE KEEPIT
The accommodation section of Keepit Dam is managed by Reflections Holiday Parks and from the looks of the park they do a fabulous job. As it had been a bit colder (okay a lot colder) than we had expected in Coonabarabran and we were only staying one night, we opted for a cabin.
The cabin we were given was a fairly standard type of cabin that you find in most parks. It had a combined lounge and kitchen, combined shower and toilet, double bunks and a queen size bed. Everything was immaculately clean and the kitchen was well-equipped so you would easily be able to prepare meals if staying for any length of time.
There was a nice verandah at the front which looked straight out over the water. We were able to enjoy a drink and watch the sunset to our left and the moon rise over the water to our right.
It was a little more expensive than I would have liked at $89.00 so perhaps not an option if you are watching your budget.
Lake Keepit also has plenty of space for campers and caravans. There are both powered and un-powered sites available. They also have eight ‘campotels’ which are canvas sided tents and a slightly cheaper option than a traditional cabin.
For self sufficient campers there is a huge free range camping area on the opposite side of the dam. Camp fires are permitted in this area, as are pets if kept on a lead. At $16.00 a night per site it is pretty good value. Although I did notice when writing this that the price had gone up as there is a long weekend coming up.
PARK FACILITIES
Apart from the usual things Lake Keepit has a lot to offer. I was particularly impressed with the huge camp kitchen. It even has a fire pit in the middle. There were roller doors on all sides so I imagine in bad weather you could close off one or more sides. It was also very well equipped with benches, sinks, kettles and microwaves.
By the range of facilities available, this park has families in mind. There are plenty of open grassy spots, perfect for the kids to run around on. As well, there are playgrounds, a Water Splash Park and even a wading pool. There was also a BMX track and a tennis court. So plenty to keep the kids occupied. There were lots of BBQ areas and picnic shelters as well.
ACTIVITIES
Lake Keepit is probably best known for water sports like water skiing and kayaking. Fishing is another popular pass time. Silver Perch, Yellow Belly and Murray Cod are commonly caught in the dam. There is also a sailing club and also a Gliding Club nearby.
If you feel like a spot of exercise there are plenty of spots to walk around the park. From our cabin to the Sailing Club and back was around two kilometres. An easy walk when you have such great views.
Lake Keepit also has a cafe which is open from Wednesday to Sunday. It has recently been refurbished and sells hot food, drinks and snacks.
IN SUMMARY
We thought Lake Keepit was a gorgeous spot and we will definitely be making a return visit. I would really like to stay in the bush camping area. Autumn or Spring would be ideal times to visit, if you don’t mind cooler nights. It would be a great spot for family groups to stay as there were accommodation options to suit everyone and lots of things for the kids to do.
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A bit shit the kids zone spray park isn’t open/ working on weekdays. Promised the kids we’d go in the afternoon on Monday and low and behold it doesn’t operate weekdays, try explaining that to the kids.
Yes that’s disappointing!
I really enjoy staying close to lakes. And, it is better if I camp close to it. I have never stayed in a cabin and it is something I would like to try. Have to agree the camp kitchen is massive. Love that firepit.
You can find lots of lakeside parks here in Australia.Many in gorgeous spots. This one is up there in our list of favourites. We want to go back there so we can use that camp kitchen!
That camp kitchen is the bees knees. I’d love to use it and sit around the fire pit. Great Review.
We would have loved to use it too Jan….we just weren’t there for long enough. It’s probably the best camp kitchen I’ve ever seen.
That huge fire pit in the Camp Kitchen would be handy for this time of year. I have never heard of this Lake or Dam before. In fact I haven’t explored much of inland NSW which is something I’m going to have to remedy. Now I know where to come for inspiration!
It was such a lovely, relaxing spot Kathy. Would have loved to stay longer!