Chifley Dam is open for all water activities including sailing, fishing, and water skiing. The water is monitored on a regular basis to ensure that it is fit for use. https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/Services/Water/Dams-Waterways
The public recreation area nearest the dam wall including the main boat ramp will be closed and locked at 9.00pm during daylight savings and at 6.00pm during winter, and will re-open at 7.30am each morning
Camping: The Primitive Camping Area is on the northern side of the dam and is accessible from Chifley Dam Road. Providing limited level sites for vans and camping, sites can not be reserved, ‘first in – best dressed’ rule. Toilet facilities approximately 50 metres from the camping fence line.
Dam Rules: No pets allowed; No fires to be lit; No camping except in the designated Primitive Camping Area; No trailbikes; Standard Waterway rules apply; Sign on the boat ramp shows traffic direction and no go zones.
Accommodation: Chifley Cabins provide a total of 6 cabins configured to sleep from 2 people to a group of 16. Cabins are fully self-contained with kitchen and bathroom facilities. See https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/members/chifley-dam-cabins/ for bookings or call the Bathurst Visitors Centre on 1800 68 1000.
Fishing is a favourite past time at the dam, and regularly stocked with native species, the dam is a fabulous location to drop a line. A Recreational Fishing Fee applies to all freshwater fishing (exemptions apply). https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational
Boating: NSW Maritime boating and licensing laws apply to all dam users and these laws are enforced by NJSW Maritime Officers who also monitor speed limits. https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/maritime-licences/boat-and-pwc-licences/get-boat-or-pwc-licence
Facilities: Picnic areas in front of cabins; 5 picnic shelters; 9 electric BBQs, Toilet blocks, Children’s playground; 2 operating boat ramps.
Activities/Events: Bathurst Regional Council requires early notification from organisations envisaging to stage an organised event/activity at Chifley Dam. See details https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/dams/2377-application-to-hold-an-event-activity-at-chifley-dam.html
