Derrinallum - Deep Lake Recreation Reserve
Deep Lake Recreation Reserve is a popular lakeside camping and recreation area approximately 5 km west of Derrinallum. Set beside Deep Lake with views across the surrounding Western District farmland, the reserve is a good destination for fishing, boating, water sports, camping and picnicking.
The lake is shallow and water levels can vary considerably depending on rainfall and seasonal conditions. When water levels are suitable, the lake is used for boating, sailing and other water sports.
Fishing is a major attraction at Deep Lake. The lake has been stocked with brown trout and rainbow trout when water levels are suitable and also contains redfin. There is good access for both bank fishing and fishing from the jetty.
A boat ramp provides access to the lake and a floating jetty extends from the foreshore.
The reserve also offers camping for tents, caravans and other recreational vehicles. Camping is in an informal lakeside setting and fees apply.
Facilities include:
- Camping
- Boat ramp
- Floating jetty
- 7 unshaded picnic tables
- Undercover BBQ area with a table and seating
- Another shelter with BBQ and two tables
- Fireplaces
- Public toilets
- Hot showers
- Playground
Fishing:
Deep Lake is popular for trout and redfin fishing. Brown trout and rainbow trout are stocked when water levels and conditions are suitable.
A Victorian recreational fishing licence may be required.
Boating and Water Sports:
A boat ramp and floating jetty provide access to Deep Lake. Boating, sailing and other water sports are popular when water levels and conditions are suitable.
Check current lake conditions before travelling if your visit depends on boating or other water activities, as water levels can fluctuate significantly. No diving due to hazards such as shallow water, variable depth, cloudy unclear water and submerged objects.
Swimming is possible when water levels and water quality are suitable. There are no lifesaving services.
Camping:
Camping is available at Deep Lake Recreation Reserve for tents, caravans and recreational vehicles.
Camping fees apply. They were $10 per head per night (children under 16 free) in mid 2026. Fees are to be paid at the Supermarket or Café in Derrinallum or via Direct Transfer (details on a sign at the reserve)
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are allowed. Owners must be responsible for their pets and obey any signs or restrictions at the reserve.
Cost:
Day visitors can access the reserve without a camping fee. Camping fees apply.
DEEP LAKE HISTORY
A little bit of history comes to mind when we see the lake full again, in time for the holiday period.
Jack Lane was our tireless Lands Dept. Officer and kept a keen eye on our waterways and pest control. He was our RSL secretary for some years, having served in the RAAF in the Middle East. He obviously would have seen the potential in Deep Lake.
Some of the locals used the Lake, after a long walk from the town, during the holidays and warm weather. Chatsworth Road ended at Mt. Elephant Estate corner, then a track through the Millers boundary and continued to the water, Mr Ron Heard had planted a few trees, which unfortunately didn’t flourish.
Jack Lane, Reg Snibson and Roy Drake and friends formed the Yacht and Power Boat Club and purchased the lakeside block from Mr Gordon Miller.
What a wonderful success it has been, providing so much pleasure for young and old.
Keith MAY news & natter community newsletter 845 Feb 2017
Camperdown Chronicle (Vic. 1877 - 1954), Thursday 21 December 1933
Excerpt: Derrinallum
On Wednesday, 13th inst, a meeting of the Progress Association was held when several accounts were passed for payment. After general business had been dealt with the suggestion of the establishment of bathing facilities was considered. At first the discussion arose as to whether it would be advisable to form a public body to deal with same, or to carry on by the Progress Association. However, it was decided unanimously to act through the Progress Association and a sub-committee was appointed to inspect a portion of the Deep Lake frontage in Mr. Gordon Miller’s property. They will report to a meeting at an early date as to its suitability and expense likely to be necessary. The public highly appreciate the kind offer of Mr. G. Miller, who is allowing them to build bathing boxes on his property.
Camperdown Chronicle (Vic. 1877 - 1954), Saturday 17 March 1934.
Excerpt: Derrinallum
During the recent heat wave the Deep Lake has proved a most popular resort with young and old, and especially in the evenings a continuous stream of cars can be seen going to and fro. The improvements carried out for the benefit of bathers is appreciated by all. The steep bank to the beach has been improved, dressing sheds erected, and a raft provided for divers. It is probable that in the near future a diving tower will also be erected, and other improvements carried out. A party recently had an exciting time at the lake. They undertook to float out in the raft for some distance and on dropping the anchor could not hit the bottom, with the result that a boat had to go out to their rescue.
Photos:
Location
Deep Lake Recreation Reserve, Chatsworth Road, Derrinallum 3325 View Map
Web Links
→ visitgreatoceanroad.org.au/attractions/deep-lake
→ www.corangamite.vic.gov.au/Community/Community-Directory/Deep-Lake-Recreation-Reserve
