Warren reservoir
Connected to
South Para Reservoir Reserve in the Barossa is Warren Reservoir Reserve, where you can also walk, run, cycle, kayak, canoe and fish. However, the highlight for me here was its dam wall and reservoir. Warren Reservoir was built in the early 1900s, during the first World War. Its construction meant that water would be readily available to the local communities whenever Eudunda's natural springs dried up in summer. This ensured a reliable supply of up to 4.7 gigalitres, potentially, all year round.
Dam wall
Standing 17 metres high
Standing 17 metres high, the dam wall is viewable from a vantage point, just off West Warren loop trail. The entire length of this shared-use trail is 5.5 kilometres but a short 20-minute walk in a clockwise direction will get you to the lookout easily. Be sure though to keep your eyes open for the turnoff, as signs are not very well posted along the way. I would suggest taking a photo of the map that is available at the car park before you start walking.
Dam wall lookout
West Warren loop trail
Within the vicinity of the dam wall, you will also see a valve house (not publicly accessible, unfortunately), which has a time capsule cast into its door lintel. Items included are a bottle of wine, some coins and a newspaper. Time capsules capture a moment for the future and are usually intended as a deliberate method of communication. I wonder who will live to witness the day this historic cache is opened!
Map
Valve house
Entrance to
Warren Reservoir Reserve is via Warren Road near Williamstown. You can visit the reserve from sunrise to sunset every day, except on total fire ban days.
