St Helens Plains - Taylors Lake
Taylors Lake is a large recreational lake located approximately 20 km southeast of Horsham. Popular with locals and visitors, the lake offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing, jet skiing, picnicking and camping.
The lake is an off-stream reservoir managed by GWMWater and forms part of the region's important water supply system. It also plays a significant role in providing environmental water to the Wimmera River.
Taylors Lake is particularly popular during the warmer months, with sandy shorelines, open water and plenty of space for outdoor recreation. The northern side of the lake has some of the best sandy areas, making it an attractive location for relaxing beside the water.
Unlike some other lakes in the Wimmera region, Taylors Lake often retains water during dry periods because of its role in the regional water supply system.
Activities:
- Swimming in permitted areas
- Fishing from the shoreline or a boat
- Boating and powerboating
- Water skiing
- Jet skiing
- Picnicking beside the lake
- Free camping in designated areas
- Birdwatching and enjoying the surrounding natural environment
Facilities:
- Sandy shoreline and beach areas
- Boat ramps on the eastern and western shores
- Toilets near the eastern and western boat ramps
- Picnic areas
- Parking areas
- Designated camping area
- Dogs permitted subject to restrictions
Swimming:
Swimming is permitted in designated areas of Taylors Lake, with sandy sections of shoreline providing access to the water.
The northern shoreline is particularly noted for its sandy areas.
Visitors should be aware that Taylors Lake is an open-water environment without lifeguard supervision. Conditions can change, and submerged obstacles, changing water depths and boating activities may present hazards.
Swimming is prohibited in the signed exclusion zone surrounding the north-eastern boat ramp.
Always supervise children closely around the water and observe all safety signs.
Fishing:
Taylors Lake is a popular freshwater fishing destination and has a long history as an important fishing location in the Wimmera.
Fish species recorded in the lake include:
- Murray cod
- Golden perch (yellowbelly)
- Redfin
- Occasional trout
A Victorian recreational fishing licence may be required, and fishing regulations, size limits and seasonal restrictions apply.
Boating and Water Skiing:
The lake is popular for recreational boating, water skiing and jet skiing.
Boat ramps are available on the eastern and western shores. Boats must be launched from designated ramps.
Visitors should observe all boating regulations, speed restrictions and any exclusion zones.
Camping:
Free camping is permitted in the designated Western Camping Area.
Camping conditions include:
- Camping is only permitted in designated areas
- Camp at least 20 metres from the water's edge
- Toilets are available near the boat ramps
- Bring your own firewood
- Campfires are only permitted in properly constructed fireplaces when fire restrictions allow
- Camping beneath trees is discouraged because of the risk of falling branches
- Long-term camping of eight weeks or more requires approval from GWMWater
- Keep vehicles on established tracks
Opening Hours:
The lake and recreation areas are generally accessible throughout the year. See GWMWater for current access conditions, water levels and recreational restrictions.
Cost:
Free entry and free camping in designated areas.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are permitted around Taylors Lake but must be kept under control at all times.
Dogs must be on a leash in picnic and camping areas and when near other visitors. They must be tied up overnight when camping.
Dogs are not permitted to enter the lake water, except for permitted duck retrieval during duck hunting season.
Owners must clean up after their dogs.
How to Get There:
The lake is approximately 20 km southeast of Horsham.
The eastern recreation area and boat ramp can be reached via Horsham-Wal Wal Road and Fishers Road.
The western side of the lake, including the designated camping area, can be accessed from the Horsham-Lubeck Road area.
Location
Taylors Lake Recreation Area, Fishers Road, St Helens Plains 3401 View Map
Web Links
→ www.gwmwater.org.au/water-and-sewerage/our-reservoirs/taylors-lake/
→ visithorsham.com.au/business-listing/taylors-lake/
