The Best Blue Lakes in Western Australia
Just two hours south of Perth is the gorgeous little rural town of Collie and not one but TWO blue lakes. With white limestone cliffs, the most amazing bluest water these lakes are abandoned mine sites. In the 1950s they were filled with water after being decommissioned and now are recreational lakes.
Black Diamond Lake has been flooding Instagram in recent years, but our favourite is #StocktonLake due to its popularity for camping and boating enthusiasts. Both are an incredibly bright azure-blue colour when the sun is out.
Swimming in the Blue Lakes
Swimming is permitted in both Black Diamond and Stockton Lakes but, because of their history as mines, the water is mildly acidic. There are signs that warn people of the risk. The lake is also deep and can be very cold, with sudden steep drop-offs. To be safe, it’s suggested to keep your head above water and limit your time in the water.
Stockton Lake
Stockton Lake is the perfect getaway spot to camp right on the water’s edge. Located 7km east of Collie township on the Collie-Darkan Road, Stockton Lake is our favourite of Western Australia’s blue lakes. It’s also very popular for boating and water skiing, and can bring your dog along for the fun! For the less adventurous the calm waters are perfect for kayaking, SUP, swimming or simply floating on your inflatable.
The region is also jam-packed with mountain biking trails. Collie is one of Australia’s premier mountain biking destinations – read about the trails HERE. As well as biking, you can explore some of those gorgeous trails on foot and enjoy the wildflowers.
Camping at the Blue Lakes
Unpowered shady spots for caravans, tents or vans are available only a few metres from the stunning crystal blue water of Stockton Lake. But they are first-come-first-served.
With no reservation required for Stockton Lake it’s important to get there bright and early during peak season to secure a good spot. That said, the campground is huge are there are plenty of sites around the edges of the lake. And room for motorhomes and caravans with no set bays.
Other camping essentials:
- There are two flushing toilets on the east side of the lake and two newly built long-drop toilet on the west side of the lake.
- Camp fires are allowed in the dedicated fire-pits only. Check the signage on arrival for up to date information on current conditions and whether fires are allowed.
- This is a Leave No Trace campsite, so make sure to take all rubbish with you when you leave.
- Camping cost is $11 adult, $7 concession, $3 child per night and the fees are collected daily by the Ranger and must be paid in cash.
It can get really busy at Stockton Lake on long weekends and during the summer holidays. But at other times and midweek, you can often have this paradise to yourself! For more information on Stockton Lake visit parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au.
Black Diamond Lake
Located 5 kilometres west of Collie in Allanson, Black Diamond Lake has become one of the most Instagrammed spots in Collie. This lake is a day-use area only – strictly no camping/fines may apply. This makes it ideal for picnics, swimming, kayaking or relaxing on your inflatable floats.
Whilst swimming is permitted, signs do warn people to swim at their own risk. Due to past mining activities, the water has a low pH level. So, those with sensitive skin should limit their exposure. Be cautious as there may be rocks submerged.
Please be mindful that one side of the lake is on private property and it is asked to respect the residents that live there.
There are no toilets and very few facilities at Black Diamond. But the stunning views and peaceful setting certainly make up for the lack of amenities.
Exploring Beyond the Blue Lakes
With so much to do in the area, don’t just day trip to the blue lakes – make it a weekend. We recommend you visit the Wellington Dam Mural in Wellington National Park, Gnomesville in the Ferguson Valley and spend some time exploring the town of Collie.
Wellington Dam Mural
Want to see the biggest dam mural in the world? Located in the Wellington National Park, just west of Collie is an 8,000 square metre mural. The scale is immense and the artwork’s colours were specifically mixed on-site to blend with the local granite and landscape. Read our Wellington Dam Mural Ultimate Guide for everything you need to know when visiting.
Gnomesville
Whilst you tick off the Blue Lakes of Western Australia from your bucket list you might like to also visit Gnomesville in the gloriously green Ferguson Valley. Just 30 minutes drive from Collie, this is another must-see WA tourist attraction. It’s safe to say you will not likely see anything else quite like it. Make sure to take a gnome to add to the community! Read our guide to Gnomesville – it’s a very quirky instagrammable destination!
Lake Clifton Thrombolites
Thrombolites are rock-like formations thought to be one of the first life forms on Earth dating back hundreds of millions of years. Found in only a few places in the world – you can see them right here in Western Australia at Lake Clifton!
Located at Yalgorup National Park, south of Mandurah which is just a short bypass on the way to Collie. Take Mount John Rd or Clifton Downs Rd – both are turn-offs from the Old Coast Road.
The Lake Clifton thrombolites are approximately 2,000 years old and the largest in the southern hemisphere. For the best views just take the path from the car park along the boardwalk. You’ll find information boards letting you know about the unique history along the path. The thrombolites are more exposed during the lower water levels of summer and autumn but can still easily be seen at other times. We suggest checking the tides and visiting when it’s low tide or they may be submerged.
