South Para Reservoir Reserve
Just 45 minutes' drive from
Hope Valley Reservoir you will find
South Para Reservoir, the second-largest reservoir in the state. It has a capacity of more than 22,000 Olympic swimming pools and could fill Adelaide Oval 90 times over. Its construction was somewhat unique in that the workforce consisted of mainly European immigrants after World War II, inmates from Yatala Labour Prison and Adelaide's homeless men.
The reservoir
The shores
The reserve surrounding this reservoir in the Barossa is home to a range of activities designed for the outdoor enthusiasts. These include hiking, cycling, fishing and kayaking. Yes, that's right, you can actually kayak across the vast majority of the reservoir's body of water. Either a short meander or a full day's adventure, the choice is yours. From the launch point to the north-west peninsula will take you approximately 45 minutes while at least 3 hours is needed to go all the way until the old bridge. Remember also to factor in the time required to get back. Plus, in the warmer months, it might be handy to bring along a trolley to help launch your kayak as water levels could be low.
One of the tracks
The shoreline path
If you rather stay on dry ground, an extensive network of tracks is available for hiking and cycling. These paths would suit anyone with a moderate level of fitness. However, do be mindful of some rough and rocky surfaces along the trail. We chose to walk by its winding shores which rewarded us with stunning views of the reservoir. The total length of the shoreline is 5.6 kilometres. With a paid permit, you are also allowed to fish from the shoreline, or from your kayak if you prefer. The waters are stocked with golden perch and silver perch.
The toilets
The car park
Public access to
South Para Reservoir Reserve is via South Para Road near Williamstown. Although toilets can be found next to the car park, picnic facilities are only available at the south west peninsula and the south peninsula which are both approximately two kilometres away from the entrance.
