Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is a large man-made freshwater reservoir in the East Kimberley of Western Australia formed by the construction of the Ord River Dam, completed in 1971. It is the largest freshwater man-made lake in Australia by volume.

A network of waterways, islands and peninsulas makes the lake a focus for boat cruises, houseboat stays and fishing; wildlife viewing is a major draw, with diverse waterbirds and crocodiles reported along the shoreline and river channels. Boat tours typically pass the dam wall and visit prominent inlets and islands. Facilities and organised tours operate from nearby accommodation hubs.

The lake was created when the Ord River Dam was built to support the Ord River Irrigation Scheme and regional development; the flooded basin submerged former pastoral land and natural river channels. Since inundation the area has been managed for water supply, irrigation and tourism.

Lake Argyle sits in the East Kimberley region south of the township of Kununurra in northern Western Australia, on the Ord River system. Road access is from Kununurra and other regional routes serving the Ord Valley.

• Best time: Most reliable wildlife and water-level viewing occurs in the dry season, typically May to September, when boat cruises and houseboat operations run most often.
• Visitor services: The reservoir was formed by the construction of the Ord River Dam and is used for irrigation and recreation; organised cruises and houseboat stays depart from the main marina.