Lake Garawongera Fraser Island

Lake Garawongera is a beautiful inland lake on Fraser island. Like many of the other amazing lakes on the island it is a reed-lined perched lake.

It’s traditional name is known as ‘place of pigeons’ by the Butchulla Aboriginal people.

However in saying that we saw lots of different bird species but not a single pigeon on our visit.

Where is Lake Garawongera is located on Fraser Island?

Lake Garawongera is located on Fraser Island, Queensland, Australia. You can get to the island by high clearance 4WD, by plane or with a commercial tour.

Once on the island it is situated just 6km from the Happy Valley township along the the Fraser Island great walk.

Directions to the lake

Once on the Eastern 75 Mile Beach of the island you need to reach the turning point at Happy Valley. Then head inland on the Happy Valley Road. There are signs that will direct you to Lake Garawongera.

The day use area is located about 8.3km west of the Happy Valley township and 10.7km north-west of the eastern beach at Poyungan Valley.

We would not recommend that you bring in a trailer or campervan as the track is one way and the parking is limited. You also can not camp in the area.

What will you find at the Lake?

Once you arrive at the carpark the Lake front is 200m walk through huge paperbark trees to the waters edge.

The surrounding area is recognisable because of its large Paperbark trees. The day use area has toilets and picnic tables near the car park.

If I can suggest anything have toilet paper and hand sanitiser handy should you need to use the facilities.

The picnic area has quite a few tables and some are well shaded so its nice to spread out on a table and enjoy a packed picnic lunch.

The lake itself has a small beach section so its nice for the kids to play on. The water is yellowish (tannin) in colour however it is fresh and glorious to swim in during the summer.

While the lake itself is lovely it’s not as popular or scenic as Lake McKenzie but you will avoid crowds and that is always nice and peaceful.

The lake has shallow water that is often warmed by the sun so great for the kids. It gets deeper and cooler in the middle but its safer to keep to the shallow edges.

You don’t need to worry about anything sinister lurking in the water. The most you will find is the occasional penny turtle hidden amongst the reeds.

The birdlife in the area is wonderful so bring the binoculars if you are interested in birdwatching.

Conclusion

Lake Garawongera is a beautiful and serene place to visit. Although the water isn’t perfectly clear, it’s still an inviting destination for those looking to cool off on hot days.

Or to enjoy some time in nature with their family especially if you are camping close by on 75 Mile beach.

Its a place to beat the crowds and relax for a few hours and have a picnic and swim.

Be sure to visit Lake Garawongera when you’re visiting Fraser Island!