Lake Argyle is one of Western Australia’s most surprising landscapes. Vast, calm, and sitting on the edge of the East Kimberley. It plays a major role in shaping the region around Kununurra. While many travellers hear about it in passing, few understand what makes it special, how to visit properly, or what is safe to do once you’re there.
This guide focuses on what Lake Argyle actually is, what you can do, and answers the most common questions travellers ask before visiting.
What Is Lake Argyle?
Lake Argyle is Australia’s largest man-made freshwater lake by volume. It was created in the early 1970s with the construction of the Ord River Dam. It now holds around 18 times the volume of water in Sydney Harbour.
The lake supports the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. This is why the land around Kununurra feels noticeably greener than other remote towns in the Kimberley. Crops such as melons, mangoes, cotton, and chickpeas grow here. This is a rare sight in such a remote part of Australia.
Despite being artificial, Lake Argyle has become a thriving ecosystem and one of the most visually striking inland waterways in the country.
Is Lake Argyle Worth Visiting?
Yes — Lake Argyle is absolutely worth visiting.
What makes it special is the combination of:
- Scale (it’s enormous)
- Accessibility (sealed roads from Kununurra)
- Calm water and open landscapes
- Wildlife, sunsets, and wide horizons
Unlike many Kimberley destinations that require a 4WD or long travel days, Lake Argyle is easy to reach and easy to experience. You can visit for a few hours or base yourself there for several days.
For many travellers, it’s one of the most relaxing stops in the region.
How to Get to Lake Argyle
Lake Argyle is located about 70 kilometres from Kununurra. The road is fully sealed and suitable for 2WD vehicles. Kununurra travel guide — covers resupply, tours, accommodation, and practical tips for visiting Lake Argyle.
Most visitors:
- Drive themselves as a day trip from Kununurra
- Join an organised tour
- Visit as part of a sunset cruise experience
Driving is straightforward, but wildlife is common near dusk, so care is needed if returning in the evening.
Is It Safe to Swim in Lake Argyle?
Swimming is permitted in designated areas, particularly around the Lake Argyle Resort and during organised cruises.
Lake Argyle contains freshwater crocodiles, not saltwater crocodiles. Freshwater crocodiles are generally shy and avoid human interaction. There are no saltwater crocodiles in Lake Argyle due to the dam structure.
That said:
- Always follow local advice
- Swim only in recommended areas
- Avoid swimming at dusk or night
- Do not swim near boat ramps or inflows
When managed sensibly, swimming in Lake Argyle is considered safe.
How Many Freshwater Crocodiles Are in Lake Argyle?
Lake Argyle is estimated to be home to around 20,000 freshwater crocodiles, making it one of the largest populations in Australia.
While that number sounds alarming, freshwater crocodiles are not aggressive like saltwater crocodiles. They tend to feed on fish and small animals and keep their distance from people.
Their presence is part of the lake’s healthy ecosystem.
What Is Special About Lake Argyle?
Several things make Lake Argyle unique:
- It is the largest man-made lake in Australia by volume
- It contains hundreds of islands visible when water levels drop
- It supports large-scale agriculture in a remote region
- It has a strong sense of openness and quiet rarely found elsewhere
- It offers one of the most memorable sunset cruise experiences in Australia
It feels more like an inland sea than a lake.
Things to Do at Lake Argyle
Sunset Cruises (Highly Recommended)
Sunset cruises are the standout experience. They usually include:
- Wildlife spotting
- Swimming stops
- Drinks and snacks
- Sunset views over the water
Many tours include bus transfers, which means you don’t need to drive back to Kununurra in the dark.
Lake Argyle Resort
The resort offers:
- Infinity pool overlooking the lake
- Restaurant and bar
- Camping and cabin accommodation
- Helicopter scenic flights
It’s a comfortable place to stay if you want to slow down and enjoy the lake over more than one day.
Scenic Flights
Helicopter flights over Lake Argyle show the scale of the lake and its islands. These can be booked at the resort or as part of tours.
How Deep Is Lake Argyle?
At its deepest point near the dam wall, Lake Argyle reaches approximately 90 metres.
Water levels fluctuate seasonally, especially after the wet season, which exposes islands and changes the lake’s appearance significantly.
Wildlife and Safety
Lake Argyle is home to:
- Freshwater crocodiles
- Wallabies
- Kangaroos
- Large bird populations
- Fish species including barramundi (downstream)
It is not considered dangerous when basic precautions are taken regarding Australian Wildlife.
FAQs (Answering Common Search Questions)
What is the biggest predator in Australia?
The saltwater crocodile is Australia’s largest and most dangerous predator. They are not found in Lake Argyle as of 2025, with no sightings.
Has there ever been a 40-foot crocodile?
No. Large saltwater crocodiles can reach around 6–7 metres (20–23 feet). Claims of 40-foot crocodiles are myths.
Is Lake Argyle the cleanest lake in Australia?
Lake Argyle is considered very clean due to low industrial activity and limited access points, but there is no official ranking of “cleanest lake.”
Is Lake Argyle safe compared to other crocodile areas?
Yes. Because it contains freshwater crocodiles only, Lake Argyle is safer than many northern rivers where saltwater crocodiles are present.
How Long Should You Spend at Lake Argyle?
- Half day: Enough for a scenic drive and short stop
- Full day: Ideal for a sunset cruise or resort visit
- Overnight: Best if you want to relax, swim, or take a flight
Final Thoughts: Is Lake Argyle Worth It?
Lake Argyle offers something rare in the Kimberley — space without effort. You don’t need a 4WD, you don’t need long days on rough roads, and you don’t need to rush.
It’s calm, expansive, and unexpectedly green. Whether you’re passing through Kununurra or planning a longer Kimberley journey, Lake Argyle is one place that consistently surprises travellers — and rewards those who stop.
After Lake Argyle, consider continuing your journey toward The Gibb River Road, Broome , Kununurra, Mitchell Falls or the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park) for more of the Kimberley’s unforgettable landscapes.
