Renowned for its water-based activities and exceptional birdlife, Lake Cargelligo is an oasis in the heart of Outback NSW. The town is nestled on the southwestern shores of Lake Cargelligo, home to tranquil waters ideal for sailing, fishing and swimming.
Things to do in Lake Cargelligo
Discover the local history at the Lake Cargelligo Museum, housed within the old Curlew Hall. Witness the Aboriginal artefacts, old tractors and vintage appliances and visit the stationary steam engines and horse-drawn vehicles in the adjacent yard.
Stroll or cycle along the pathway that hugs the lake foreshore and discover interpretive panels explaining the natural ecology and local landmarks along the way. The trail passes a heritage railway, ochre pits and a wool wash, as well as the ruins of the Wooyeo Woolshed.
Some areas of Lake Cargelligo are protected as a bird sanctuary, with large numbers of rare and threatened water birds congregating on its shores. Hire a pair of binoculars to spot red lored whistlers, southern scrub robins and pink cockatoos, with specialist bird guides available at the Tourist Information Centre.
Want to try something new? Test your skills at water skiing or jet skiing on the waters of Lake Cargelligo. Fishing is another popular pastime here, with cod, silver perch and redfin for the taking.
Getting around Lake Cargelligo
Lake Cargelligo is around seven hours’ drive from Sydney and Melbourne, with the closest airport about three hours away at Wagga Wagga. The town is tiny and can be explored on foot or by bicycle.