Do I need a fishing licence to fish at Lake Bellfield?

Yes. A valid fishing licence is required to fish at Lake Bellfield, which is stocked with brown trout.

When is the best time to visit Lake Bellfield?

The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking and sightseeing, while summer is best for swimming and water-based activities.

Lake Bellfield

Q: Is Lake Bellfield safe to swim?

Yes. Lake Bellfield has designated swimming areas that are safe and enjoyable during the warmer months.

Q: Are there any campsites near Lake Bellfield?

Yes. Nearby campsites include Jimmy Creek Campground, Stapylton Campground, and Borough Huts Campground. For more facilities and amenities, Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park is a popular option.

Q: Are there other places to visit near Lake Bellfield?

Yes. Nearby attractions include MacKenzie Falls, Beehive Falls, Boroka Lookout, and several Aboriginal rock art sites within the Grampians region.

In the heart of the Grampians National Park, Lake Bellfield is a peaceful haven for nature lovers and adventurers. Only a short drive from Halls Gap, this lake is part of the water supply system and a recreation hub. Surrounded by mountains and with views of the Victoria Valley, Lake Bellfield is nature and man made.

From Past to Present

Lake Bellfield was built in the 1960s to meet the growing water needs of the area. It’s part of the larger water supply system that services surrounding towns. But the lake is more than just a practical necessity. It’s now a key site for people to explore the cultural landscape of the Grampians, which is steeped in Aboriginal history and heritage. The lake sits on Djab Wurrung land, which has been cared for by the Djab Wurrung people for thousands of years. The reservoir helps to mitigate floods and agriculture, so the surrounding area like the Victoria Valley can be productive and liveable. Its construction was a major engineering feat and over the years Lake Bellfield has become a tourist icon. It’s now a must see on any road trip through the Grampians, with its beauty attracting visitors all year round.

Scenic Views

Not many places in Victoria have views as good as around Lake Bellfield. With the Grampians mountains as a backdrop, the lake offers many opportunities to take some amazing shots. The combination of big mountains, green forests and shimmering water is a photographer and nature lover’s paradise. Several lookouts around the lake including the famous Boroka Lookout and Reed Lookout offer 360 degree views of the surrounding landscape. These are especially good during sunrise and sunset when the sky is painted with brilliant colours. For those who want to get up close and personal with the lake, paddling or walking around the lake reveals even more of its hidden gems.

Flora and Fauna

The area around Lake Bellfield is a floral and faunal bonanza, showcasing the best of the Grampians. The region has unique vegetation, big Blue Gum trees, wildflowers, native shrubs and fertile soils. In spring it’s a botanist and photographer’s paradise. Wildlife thrives here, too. You can often see kangaroos, wallabies and emus grazing in open fields or resting under trees. The lake and surrounding woodlands are a haven for birds like wedge-tailed eagles, crimson rosellas and kookaburras. Fish include brown trout, which attract anglers from far and wide. For those with a keen eye, smaller creatures like echidnas and sugar gliders are part of the region’s biodiversity.

Must-Try Activities

Lake Hiking Trails

If you want to experience the best of Lake Bellfield on foot, there are several hiking trails around the lake. The Grampians Peaks Trail is for the energetic and takes you through some of the region’s most stunning rock formations and rock art sites, while the Fyans Creek Loop Walk is perfect for families and day trips. Trails to Beehive Falls and Silverband Falls are a bonus.

Swimming at Lake Bellfield

Lake Bellfield is a popular spot to swim, especially during the warmer months. The calm water is a great way to cool off after hiking, and there are designated swimming areas where visitors can enjoy the lake safely. If you’re staying nearby, Gap Lakeside Tourist Park and Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park are close by.

Picnicking

The shoreline of Lake Bellfield has several well maintained picnic areas with tables, BBQ facilities and amenities like a toilet block. These areas are perfect for families or groups to enjoy a leisurely lunch while taking in the views. Shaded areas and green spaces create a comfortable outdoor dining experience.

Fishing

Fishing is one of the most popular activities at the lake, with anglers coming to the shore to try their luck at catching redfin and other freshwater fish. Whether you prefer to fish from a small boat or land, make sure to bring your fishing rods and a valid fishing license to enjoy this peaceful pastime.

Kayaking and Boating

Lake Bellfield’s calm water is perfect for kayaking and boating. While motorised boats are restricted to electric motors, paddlers can explore the lake at their leisure, taking in the scenery. Kayaking gives you a unique perspective of the lake, including hidden coves and mountain views.

When to Experience the Best

Lake Bellfield is best visited depending on what you want to do. Spring and autumn are great for hiking and walking the rocky trails when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are out. Summer is perfect for water activities like swimming and kayaking, and winter is quiet if you want solitude and scenic views.

Places You Can't-Miss

Lake Bellfield is surrounded by many other great spots in the Grampians. Nearby is MacKenzie Falls, one of the biggest waterfalls in Victoria and Hollow Mountain for some awesome rock climbing. Other nearby lakes, Lake Wartook, Lake Fyans and Rocklands Reservoir, offer more water activities and scenic walks. The Aboriginal Rock Art Sites provide a deep connection to the traditional owners.

FAQ

Is Lake Bellfield safe to swim?

Yes, there are designated swimming areas, and they are safe and enjoyable during warmer months.

Do I need a fishing license to fish at Lake Bellfield?

Yes, you need a valid fishing license to fish at Lake Bellfield, which has brown trout.

Are there any campsites near Lake Bellfield?

Yes, there are several campsites, including Jimmy Creek Campground, Stapylton Campground and Borough Huts Campground. For more amenities, stay at Halls Gap Lakeside Tourist Park.