A broad freshwater lake on Barmera’s doorstep, made for swimming, sailing, water-skiing and lakeside picnics.
Lake Bonney is the Riverland’s playground - a wide, shallow freshwater lake fed by the Murray right beside the town of Barmera. Generations of South Australians have learned to swim, sail and water-ski here, and it was the scene of Donald Campbell’s 1964 world water-speed record attempt. The foreshore offers swimming beaches, grassed picnic areas, walking and cycling paths and big sunset skies reflected in the water. Birdlife is abundant around the fringing reeds, making it as good for a quiet paddle as for a busy summer’s day.
Find it on the map
Got a photo of Lake Bonney Barmera?
Share your best shot. If we use it in the gallery, you'll be credited by name. Photos are reviewed before going live.
Featured in
-
#8
9 Best Nature & Wildlife Spots in the Riverland
Ramsar wetlands, red-gum floodplains and birdwatching hides across the Murray's greatest wild country.
-
#3
10 Things to Do with Kids in the Riverland
Free ferries, giant oranges, climbing towers and boats that go up and down in a box
-
#12
Best Things to Do in the Riverland
River cliffs, cellar doors, paddle steamers and houseboats - the Riverland at its very best.
Last verified 7 August 2026 · source: Visit Berri Barmera (Berri Barmera Council)
Within a short drive
Places within 5km of Lake Bonney Barmera
You might also like
Similar experiences across Riverland
Sources
- Visit Berri Barmera (Berri Barmera Council) (accessed August 2026)
Image credits
- Lake Bonney Barmera 2015-08-27.jpg by Tangerineduel , CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons