Beauty of the nature
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Tallowa Dam

4.6
·491k reviews·, Australia

A picturesque dam and launch point for kayaking the Shoalhaven Gorge, offering fishing and abundant wildlife.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Dam road reopens for weekend fun

CrowdMedium
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Beauty of the nature

Tallowa Dam

Best Time

Friday afternoons

Dam road reopens for weekend fun

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque dam and launch point for kayaking the Shoalhaven Gorge, offering fishing and abundant wildlife.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Paddle into the stunning Shoalhaven Gorge for a peaceful escape with abundant wildlife."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛶 Book Kayak Hire Early

Popular operators like Kangaroo Valley Outdoors book up fast, especially during holidays .

🚗 Check Road Access

Tallowa Dam Road can close for maintenance; confirm access before your trip .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canoeing the Shoalhaven Gorge

Canoeing the Shoalhaven Gorge

Launch from Tallowa Dam

Paddle upstream into the stunning Shoalhaven Gorge, a peaceful journey with spectacular scenery.

Fishing for Australian Bass

Fishing for Australian Bass

Tallowa Dam waters

Try your luck catching Australian Bass and Perch in these productive waters. Some anglers report great success .

Wildlife Spotting

Wildlife Spotting

Around Tallowa Dam

Observe kangaroos, wallabies, and even lace monitors in their natural habitat, particularly during dawn and dusk .

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Paddle Adventure

Tallowa Dam is a prime spot for kayaking and canoeing, especially for exploring the Shoalhaven Gorge. Book rentals in advance, as operators like Kangaroo Valley Kayaks are popular. Check the dam's road access, as it can close for maintenance, impacting your launch point.Instagram+1

Fishing & Wildlife Encounters

Anglers can find Australian Bass and Perch here, with some impressive catches reported.Instagram+1 Keep an eye out for local wildlife like kangaroos and wallabies grazing near the dam, especially at twilight.Instagram Lace monitors have also been spotted in the area.Instagram

Best Times

When
Friday afternoons
Why
Dam road reopens for weekend fun
Crowd
Medium
When
School holiday mornings
Why
Ideal for family paddling trips
Crowd
High
When
Twilight hours
Why
Best for wildlife viewing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Upper Shoalhaven River, NSW Part One: Tallowa Dam —> Monarch Point Campsite We picked up a canoe from @kangaroovalleyoutdoors and launched at Tallowa Dam and paddles up to Monarch Point. This was the first time the boys had been in a canoe and they were absolutely stoked! Both of them had a go at paddling and did so well. The wind on the way out was slowly starting to pick up. We saw a few l...
thehikerrfolk
35 likes • 1.3K views

🛶 Book Kayak Hire Early

Popular operators like Kangaroo Valley Outdoors book up fast, especially during holidays.Instagram+1

🚗 Check Road Access

Tallowa Dam Road can close for maintenance; confirm access before your trip.Instagram

Tallowa Dam Road will reopen at midday this Friday, 5th July 2024 - just in time for NSW school holidays! With operators like Kangaroo Valley Kayaks, Valley Outdoors, Kangaroo Valley Safaris and Kangaroo Valley Adventure Company offering canoe and kayak hire, as well as multi-day paddles and guided adventures along the Kangaroo River, now is the perfect time to jump aboard and start exploring al...
visitkangaroovalley
46 likes • 1.3K views
On Wednesday 26 February 18 students, along with Ms. Semmens and Mr. Wilson, embarked on a three day Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journey at Tallowa Dam. They paddled a total of 25-30 km, prepared their own meals and carried out general camp activities during the trip. Highlights included a night paddle under the stars, swimming in the dam and waterholes, laughing and playing games around the cam...
stjohnsnowra
161 likes • 3.3K views

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

Chasing Aussie Bass? Pack your rods for a chance at a great catch.Instagram+1

🦘 Watch for Wildlife

Kangaroos and wallabies are common, especially at dawn and dusk.Instagram

Getting towed around all over Tallowa Dam by what I thought was a Carp. Got a nice surprise when I reeled it in, a good sized thumping Bass.
andrewettingshausen
99 likes • 4.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛶 Book Kayak Hire Early

Popular operators like Kangaroo Valley Outdoors book up fast, especially during holidays.Instagram+1

🚗 Check Road Access

Tallowa Dam Road can close for maintenance; confirm access before your trip.Instagram

🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear

Chasing Aussie Bass? Pack your rods for a chance at a great catch.Instagram+1

🦘 Watch for Wildlife

Kangaroos and wallabies are common, especially at dawn and dusk.Instagram

💧 Pack Water for Swims

Enjoy a refreshing swim in the pristine waters, but bring your own water supply.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tallowa Dam is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and excellent opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Visitors rave about paddling the Shoalhaven Gorge and the chance to see local fauna. Some minor inconveniences can arise from potential road closures for maintenance, so checking access beforehand is advised.

What People Like

Kayaking Shoalhaven Gorge
Fishing for Bass
Wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Occasional road closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tallowa Dam is located near Kangaroo Valley. Access is typically via Tallowa Dam Road. However, this road can be subject to closures for maintenance, so it's crucial to check its status before you travel, especially if planning a visit during school holidays.Instagram

Yes, Tallowa Dam is accessible by car via Tallowa Dam Road. This road serves as a launch point for many water activities. Be aware that it may close periodically for upkeep.Instagram

Tallowa Dam is a popular launch point for canoeing and kayaking. You can rent equipment from local operators and paddle upstream into the Shoalhaven Gorge.Instagram+1

Public transport options to Tallowa Dam are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider carpooling if traveling with a group.

Tallowa Dam is a short drive, approximately 10 minutes, from the heart of Kangaroo Valley.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are generally no entry fees or tickets required to access Tallowa Dam itself or the surrounding natural areas. However, costs will apply if you rent equipment for activities like kayaking or fishing.

Tallowa Dam is typically open to visitors, but access via Tallowa Dam Road can be restricted during maintenance periods. It's advisable to check local advisories for any temporary closures.Instagram

Parking at Tallowa Dam is usually free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any signage that might indicate otherwise, especially during peak seasons.

While Tallowa Dam is a popular spot for non-powered craft like canoes and kayaks, powered boats may have restrictions. It's best to check with local authorities or park management for specific regulations regarding boat launching.

Yes, a valid NSW fishing license is required to fish in the waters around Tallowa Dam. You can obtain these online or from licensed retailers.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Tallowa Dam is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, and wildlife spotting. It's also a great starting point for Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journeys.Instagram+5

Absolutely! Tallowa Dam is a fantastic launch point for kayaking and canoeing, offering access to the beautiful Shoalhaven Gorge. You can rent kayaks from local providers.Instagram+2

Yes, swimming is possible in the dam and surrounding waterholes. Some visitors have enjoyed long, peaceful swims in the pristine waters.Instagram+1

You might spot kangaroos, wallabies, lace monitors, and various bird species. Wildlife is often seen grazing near the dam, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.Instagram+1

While not extensively developed with marked trails, the area around Tallowa Dam offers opportunities for walking and exploring the natural environment. Some adventurous journeys involve paddling and camping, suggesting exploration is possible.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly at Tallowa Dam. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks for picnics or pack a meal to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.

The areas around Tallowa Dam offer scenic spots for picnics. Many visitors enjoy their meals with a view of the water and surrounding bushland.

While there may not be designated BBQ facilities, picnicking is common. If you plan to use a portable BBQ, ensure you follow all local fire regulations and pack out all your waste.

The nearest town with shops and eateries is Kangaroo Valley. It's recommended to stock up on supplies before heading to Tallowa Dam.

Camping is possible in the vicinity, often as part of organized adventurous journeys or Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.Instagram For general public camping, check with local authorities or national park services for designated campgrounds in the broader Kangaroo Valley region.

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the dam's engineering, the serene water, the lush Shoalhaven Gorge, and any wildlife you encounter. Twilight offers beautiful lighting for wildlife photography.Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for landscape photography. Twilight is excellent for capturing wildlife like kangaroos and wallabies.Instagram

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Australia. Always check the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) guidelines and any local park rules before flying a drone near Tallowa Dam.

A versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the gorge, and a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife shots.

The dam wall itself provides a good vantage point. For gorge views, paddling into the Shoalhaven Gorge offers numerous photographic opportunities.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tallowa Dam offers a fantastic family outing with opportunities for gentle kayaking and wildlife spotting. Renting a canoe from operators like Kangaroo Valley Outdoors allows kids to experience paddling in a safe and scenic environment.Instagram The dam's waters are also suitable for swimming,Instagram providing a fun way to cool off. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and wallabies grazing nearby, which are always a hit with children.Instagram Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.

🎣 Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For fishing enthusiasts, Tallowa Dam is a prime location for catching Australian Bass and Perch.Instagram+1 The dam and river system provide a great environment for a day of casting lines. Beyond fishing, the area is a haven for kayakers and canoeists looking to explore the Shoalhaven Gorge.Instagram+1 It's also a popular spot for Duke of Edinburgh adventurous journeys, indicating its suitability for more challenging outdoor expeditions.Instagram

🌿 Nature Lovers and Photographers

Nature lovers will appreciate the abundant wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and lace monitors.Instagram+1 The spectacular scenery of the Shoalhaven Gorge, especially when viewed from the water, is a photographer's dream. Twilight hours are particularly magical for capturing wildlife and enjoying the serene atmosphere.Instagram The dam itself is also an interesting subject for photography, showcasing human engineering within a natural setting.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Kayaking and Canoeing Adventures

Tallowa Dam is a premier launch point for exploring the Kangaroo River and the breathtaking Shoalhaven Gorge by kayak or canoe.Instagram+1 Local operators like Kangaroo Valley Outdoors offer rentals and guided tours, making it accessible even for beginners.Instagram Paddling upstream allows you to immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery and enjoy the peaceful, pristine waters without the noise of powerboats.Instagram Some adventurous souls have even undertaken multi-day paddles and camping trips, highlighting the area's potential for extended exploration.Instagram Remember to check the dam's road access, as it can be closed for maintenance, potentially affecting your launch point.Instagram

For those seeking a longer challenge, the 22km swim from Bendeela to Tallowa Dam showcases the area's wild beauty and offers an honest, people-free experience.Instagram Whether you're after a leisurely paddle or a more strenuous adventure, the waterways around Tallowa Dam provide a memorable outdoor experience.

Fishing and Wildlife Encounters

Tallowa Dam is a known hotspot for anglers targeting Australian Bass and Perch.Instagram+1 Many visitors share their success stories, with some impressive catches being reeled in.Instagram The dam and surrounding river systems offer a rewarding fishing experience for both seasoned anglers and novices. Remember to obtain a valid NSW fishing license before you cast your line.

Beyond fishing, the area is rich in wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos and wallabies grazing near the dam, particularly during the tranquil hours of twilight.Instagram You might also encounter other native fauna, such as lace monitors, which have been observed near termite mounds in the vicinity.Instagram The natural environment provides ample opportunities for nature observation and photography.

Engineering Marvel and Natural Beauty

Tallowa Dam itself is an interesting engineering marvel, designed to manage water flow and support the local ecosystem, including a unique fish ladder.Instagram While the dam is functional, its setting is undeniably picturesque. The juxtaposition of the man-made structure with the lush, natural landscape of the Shoalhaven Gorge creates a unique visual appeal.

The surrounding area offers a blend of accessible points like the dam for a quick visit and more remote experiences accessible via paddling. The pristine water and spectacular scenery are consistently highlighted by visitors, making it a destination that appeals to both those interested in the dam's infrastructure and those seeking natural beauty and outdoor recreation.

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