Visit Lake Lyell for the Day

Enjoy a relaxed day by the water at Lake Lyell Recreation Park, just outside Lithgow. Ideal for families, fishing trips or scenic stops, this welcoming lakeside destination offers an easy and affordable day-use experience surrounded by natural beauty. Visitors can access the foreshore, boat ramp, picnic areas, playground and amenities with a small entry fee. From sunrise fishing and paddleboarding to laid-back BBQ lunches, everything is conveniently located near the lake, making it simple to settle in and enjoy a full day outdoors at Lake Lyell.

Entry Fee

Entry to our day use area of the park is as follows:

  • $7 per vehicle inclusive of boat

  • $2 per motorbike or bike

  • $2 per pedestrian

  • Buses: $2 per person

Day use fees are to be paid at the main campground office (opposite the boom gate) during office hours (8:00am - 6:00pm), and at the boom gate with gold coins ONLY outside of office hours.

Access to the park and use of its amenities including toilets is contingent upon payment of the required day entry fee. Persons found to be evading the fee will be directed to leave the park immediately.

A Day By The Lake

Arrive as early as sunrise and enjoy calm waters, birdlife and peaceful surroundings before the day warms up. Boating enthusiasts can launch directly from the on-site boat ramp, while families can set up a picnic by the foreshore or let the kids enjoy the playground. Visitors have access to the park between sunrise and sunset, with departure required by 9:00pm.

Lake Lyell is known for its scenic setting and relaxed atmosphere. The day-use area sits close to the water, providing easy access for fishing, swimming and lakeside relaxation. Visitors are welcome to bring dogs on leads, pack a picnic and make the most of the open space, all while enjoying the natural environment and respectful shared use of the park.

The park is also a convenient stop for travellers exploring the Blue Mountains and Central West region, located around two hours from Sydney and just minutes from Lithgow.

Inclusions & Highlights

When you visit Lake Lyell Recreation Park for the day, you’ll have access to a range of practical facilities and scenic features:

  • Lakeside day-use area with foreshore access.

  • Boat ramp and pontoon for launching and loading.

  • Free electric BBQs in the shared picnic area.

  • Undercover seating, picnic tables, shaded and open grassed spaces.

  • Children’s playground close to amenities.

  • Flushing toilets cleaned daily.

  • Drinking water taps for filling bottles.

  • Designated parking area near the lake.

  • Pet-friendly environment (dogs on leads).

  • Kiosk at the main campground with snacks, drinks, ice and basic supplies.

  • Easy access for fishing, swimming and boating.

  • Peaceful bushland and lake views.

The day-use area is designed to be convenient and family-friendly, with facilities located within easy walking distance of each other. Entry fees help maintain the park and allow visitors to enjoy these amenities throughout the day.

Good To Know Before You Visit

To help everyone enjoy a safe and pleasant experience, there are a few simple guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Entry fees apply and must be paid on arrival at the Office + Kiosk.

  • Day visitors have single-entry access through the boom gate.

  • The day-use area includes the boat ramp, picnic areas, playground and toilets only.

  • Visitors are not permitted to enter the campgrounds unless they are visiting registered guests or have the permission of park management.

  • Campfires, portable fire pits and charcoal BBQs are not allowed in the day-use area.

  • Keep noise to a minimum and respect other visitors.

  • Children must always be supervised by an adult.

  • Dogs are welcome but must remain on a lead and under control.

  • Please leave our picnic and BBQ areas clean and tidy after use.

  • Observe the 10km/h speed limit and park in designated areas only.

  • Respect wildlife and do not feed or disturb animals.

Following these simple rules helps protect the natural environment and ensures the park remains enjoyable for everyone.

Plan Your Next Day Out

Lake Lyell Recreation Park offers a relaxed and affordable day-use destination where you can reconnect with nature without travelling far from the city. Pack a picnic, bring the fishing rods or launch the boat and enjoy a day surrounded by water, bushland and fresh mountain air.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or planning a full day by the lake, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable outdoor in our Day Use Visitor Guide & Map.