BOARDING HOUSE DAM

Public BBQ

Boarding House Dam in the Watagan Mountains is quite challenging to reach. The access road is absolutely dreadful and you'll definitely need a 4WD unless you fancy walking several extra kilometres through questionable terrain. The picnic area itself is a delightful surprise: covered BBQ facilities, drop toilets perfectly adequate for bush standards, and picnic tables among towering myrtle trees. The real treasure is the creek meandering through moss-covered rocks, creating perfect little pools where kids can splash about safely. The walking track to the dam wall takes 30-45 minutes through stunning forest filled with monitor lizards and the occasional glimpse of eels in deeper pools. The dam itself is surprisingly deep for its size. Swimming is possible on hot days, though keep your head above water given the remote location. What strikes most is the profound quiet of this place. Despite being NPWS-managed, it feels wonderfully undiscovered, partly due to appalling signage. Pack water bottles and prepare for a proper bush experience. This is raw Australian wilderness at its most peaceful.

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Address
Boarding House Dam Track, Olney NSW 2325, Australia
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Nearby Features
  Picnic tables
  Shaded area
  Walking tracks
BBQ Photos
BOARDING HOUSE DAM BBQ Area
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Address
Boarding House Dam Track, Olney NSW 2325, Australia
View on Google Maps
Nearby Features
  Picnic tables
  Shaded area
  Walking tracks
Suggestions? Feedback?
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Generally No! The BBQs are first come, first serve. However, if you plan on having a larger event then please check with Cessnock council.

Come prepared with the right essentials, and you'll enjoy a fun day of barbecuing in BOARDING HOUSE DAM. For more information, check out our What to Bring to a Public BBQ guide.

Aussie public BBQs are simple to use. Majority of sites listed on this website are gas or electric BBQs. Simply press the button and it will turn on for a set amount of time (10-20 minutes).

We do also list wood fired BBQs on this site, so check the above descriptions and photos to be prepared.

Check out our How To Use Public BBQ Guide for further information.

Did you turn it on properly? Check out our How to Use Public BBQ guide.

If you are convinced that the BBQ has issues, then contact Cessnock council and let them know it's faulty.

You should first check with Cessnock council about the rules and restrictions.

Generally, it is permissible to utilize your own gas BBQ, provided it remains under continuous supervision. However, the usage of Charcoal BBQ's is typically restricted, with the exception of parks equipped with designated charcoal disposal bins.

Check out our guide on Portable BBQs in Aussie Parks and Beaches for more information.