Manly Dam

Manly Warringah War Memorial Park (Manly Dam) is surrounded by 375 hectares of bushland and provides a tranquil environment for visitors and important habitat for native animals.

Location and access

Manly Dam is surrounded by the suburbs Manly Vale, North Balgowlah, Allambie Heights and Frenchs Forest. There are several entry points to the Dam... More on access to Manly Dam.

Picnic areas

Manly Dam has four picnic areas. To book a picnic table call 9942 2545 or 9942 2640. View map of picnic areas (PDF, 799KB).

Find details of picnic areas and tables.

Recreation

Visitors can enjoy many activities including swimming, kayaking, fishing, bushwalking, mountain biking, bird watching and waterskiing. There is also a children's playground in Section 1.

Domestic pets (dogs and cats)

Dogs are not allowed on the internal road network, picnic areas, carparks or in the lake...More on pets at Manly Dam.

 

Flora

Manly Dam is rich in vegetation, with over 300 plant species identified such as flannel flowers, gums, rare plants and six vegetation communities...More on Manly Dam's Plant life.

Wildlife

Manly Dam catchment is home to seven mammals, over 80 species of birds, 27 species of reptiles and frogs, and three native fish...More on Manly Dam's Wildlife.

The Manly Dam Catchment

Manly Dam is one of Sydney's largest freshwater lakes. The catchment includes 375 hectares of bushland plus housing, businesses and sportsfields...More on Manly Dam catchment.

How you can help the catchment

There are many simple things you can do at home, in your garden, in your street, and when visiting the reserve to...help the Manly Dam catchment.

History of the dam

Manly Dam has a long history - both Aboriginal and European. More on the history of Manly Dam.

 

Swimming and kayaking

The section of water between picnic areas 2 and 3 is a dedicated waterskiing area and is prohibited for swimming and non-motorised water activities. Please use designated swimming areas indicated by buoys and signs. View map of designated swimming and non-swimming areas.

Fishing

Manly Dam is popular with novice fishers. Section 4 near the wetlands is thought to be the best fishing spot. The dam is stocked regularly with Australian bass, however other species that may be caught are silver perch, carp and redfin.

Water Skiing

A section of the lake is available for waterskiing through the Manly and Warringah Water Ski Club. Call 9037 9958 or email mwwaterski@bigpond.com for more information. For technical and legal information regarding boating visit the NSW Maritime.

Caring for Manly Dam

For a copy of Caring for the Manly Dam Catchment

visit Warringah Council's Civic Centre

or call 9942 2111