Harvey Dam is a brilliant family-friendly stop in the South West, around 145km south of Perth. What might start as a quick leg-stretch can easily turn into a couple of hours exploring the peaceful bush setting, scenic water views and great Playground and picnic facilities. It’s an easy detour if you’re heading further south, or a lovely day trip destination in its own right.
The landscaped recreation area below the dam wall is perfect for a relaxed family picnic. There are plenty of shady gazebos, grassed areas and free barbecues dotted around, as well as picnic tables, so it’s easy to set up for lunch while the kids explore. There’s no café on site, so be sure to bring all your own food and drinks. Toilets are available, and the area is generally well maintained.
Families with younger children will appreciate the fenced Playground, which also has shade sails. The play equipment includes a flying fox, monkey bars, a couple of slides and climbing ladders and chains, offering enough variety to keep primary-aged kids entertained while still being manageable for adventurous toddlers, especially with the fence containing little escape artists.
One of the standout features of Harvey Dam is the large amphitheatre, which overlooks the water and is used for outdoor concerts and local events, and can even be hired for weddings. When it’s not in use for events, it’s a fun space for kids to run around, climb the steps and, of course, take “centre stage” for a pretend performance.
If your family enjoys a walk, the Dick Lofthouse Rotary Walk is a great way to take in the scenery. This 1.9km trail leads over a picturesque wooden bridge and then up a series of stairs that climb the 45m-high dam wall to a lookout.
This section can be a bit of a challenge with young children or prams, but you can drive up to the higher car park above the dam if you’d prefer an easier option. From there, it’s a flat walk along the top of the dam wall, with sweeping views over the reservoir and surrounding bush. Kids will love shouting down towards the spillway and hearing the echoes bounce back.
For families with older kids or teens who enjoy fishing, Harvey Dam offers seasonal freshwater fishing opportunities. Water Corporation has worked with Fisheries WA and Recfish West to re-establish trout and marron in the reservoir, and licensed anglers can try their luck during the designated seasons. Only non-fuel watercraft such as kayaks and canoes are allowed on the dam, so it remains a peaceful, quiet spot on the water. Make sure you follow all current recreational fishing rules and check seasons and licence requirements before you go.
As Harvey Dam is a protected drinking water source, there are a few safety and environmental rules to keep in mind. Visitors are asked to keep to designated paths, roads and recreation areas, avoid climbing on any operational infrastructure, leave emergency access routes clear and not operate any taps or valves. Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Camping and overnight stays aren’t permitted, so it’s best planned as a day trip or a stop as you explore the Harvey region. Mobile coverage can be patchy, depending on your provider, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
Harvey Dam is a lovely place to slow down and enjoy the outdoors with kids – whether you’re letting little ones burn energy at the Playground, strolling along the dam wall, throwing in a line in season, or simply soaking up the views over a picnic lunch. Combined with nearby attractions like The Big Orange and Stirling Cottage in Harvey, it makes an easy, family-friendly adventure in the South West.
Harvey Dam
Address: Harvey Dam, Weir Road, Harvey WA 6220 (follow Weir Road from Harvey township)
Opening hours: Open every day (day use only; no camping permitted)
Official website: Water Corporation – Harvey Dam
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Kellie Elliott is an adventurous mum of four who’s turning Perth into her playground! When she’s not busy wrangling her little ones, you can find her on Instagram at Perth Mum Adventures, where she shares all her exciting adventures. From exploring new playgrounds to discovering off-the-beaten-path treasures, Kellie’s knack for turning everyday outings into thrilling adventures will leave you inspired and ready to explore the best that Perth has to offer!
