Lake Parramatta Reserve
Lake Parramatta Reserve is a 73-hectare bushland reserve in North Parramatta whose standout feature is a designated swimming area in the lake. Five walking tracks run through the bush, and the reserve has a playground, picnic areas and free electric barbecues.
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About Lake Parramatta Reserve
Walking Tracks at Lake Parramatta Reserve
Lake Parramatta Reserve has five walking tracks of varying length and difficulty. The Heritage Path runs 300 metres one way and is wheelchair-accessible. The Arrunga Bardo Walk covers 900 metres on an evenly surfaced track that leads to a lookout. The Reservoir Track spans 600 metres with steep steps and creek crossings, while the Upper Lake Track runs 2,100 metres and links two lookouts. The Lake Circuit combines all the tracks in a 4,200-metre loop around the lake.
Swimming, Kayaking and Picnics at Lake Parramatta Reserve
Lake Parramatta Reserve has a designated swimming area within the Visitor Hub, where lifeguards are on duty in season. Kayaking and canoeing are allowed on the lake. A children's playground with play equipment suits young visitors, picnic tables and benches sit throughout the reserve, and free electric barbecues are available for public use. The reserve occasionally hosts educational programs and guided tours about the local environment and history.
Dog Rules at Lake Parramatta Reserve
Lake Parramatta Reserve requires dogs to be kept on-leash at all times to protect native wildlife habitats. Dogs are not allowed to swim in the lake, which is a public bathing area, and the reserve has no fenced off-leash dog area. Cats are not permitted at Lake Parramatta Reserve. For off-leash exercise, the City of Parramatta provides designated areas at Barnett Park in Winston Hills, Burlington Memorial Park in Northmead and Cowells Lane Reserve in Ermington.
Facilities at Lake Parramatta Reserve
Visitor tips for Lake Parramatta Reserve
- ✓Arrive early on weekends, as the 68-space car park fills quickly at peak family visiting times.
- ✓Swim only in the designated area within the Visitor Hub.
- ✓Ride bikes only on Illawong Drive and the management trails in the eastern parts, as bicycles are not allowed on the walking tracks.
Getting to Lake Parramatta Reserve
28 Bourke Street, North Parramatta NSW 2151. The reserve has 68 free on-site parking spaces, and street parking within a short walk of the entrance takes the overflow when the car park is full. The car park has a 4-metre vehicle height limit and no trailer or boat parking.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby North Parramatta
- 📍Parramatta CBD
Frequently asked questions about Lake Parramatta Reserve
Can I bring my dog to Lake Parramatta Reserve?
Yes, but dogs must stay on a lead everywhere in the reserve and cannot swim in the lake.
What are the opening hours of Lake Parramatta Reserve?
Gates open at 6:30 AM and close at 5:30 PM, or at 7:30 PM during daylight saving time, all year round.
Are there toilets at Lake Parramatta Reserve?
Yes, the reserve has public toilets.
Is Lake Parramatta Reserve wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair users can follow the Heritage Path, the reserve's shortest track.
How long does it take to walk around Lake Parramatta?
Allow about 60–90 minutes for the 4.2 km Lake Circuit.