Background

Lake George: A Mystical Inland Lake

Discover the enigmatic Lake George in New South Wales: a natural wonder with a rich history and fluctuating landscapes.

4.4

Lake George, also known as Weereewa by the local Aboriginal people, is an endorheic lake in New South Wales, Australia, northeast of Canberra. Its fluctuating water levels and mysterious nature have captivated visitors for centuries.

A brief summary to Lake George

  • New South Wales, AU

Local tips

  • Visit Weereewa Lookout for the best panoramic views of Lake George and the surrounding area.
  • Be prepared for varying lake conditions, as water levels can fluctuate dramatically depending on rainfall and evaporation.
  • Take the Tourist Drive 8 from the Federal Highway next to Lake George to Goulburn, through picturesque countryside and charming villages such as Bungendore and Tarago.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Lake George is located adjacent to the Federal Highway, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Canberra. From Canberra, take the Federal Highway north towards Sydney. The lake will be visible on your left. To reach Weereewa Lookout, continue along the Federal Highway and follow the signs. There is a car park at the lookout. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Lake George via public transport from Sydney or Goulburn, take a train or bus to Bungendore Station. From Bungendore, you can hire a taxi to reach the lake. Train tickets from Sydney to Bungendore range from $8 to $17. Bus tickets from Sydney to Bungendore range from $1 to $17. Taxi fares from Bungendore to Lake George will vary depending on the operator and distance; expect to pay between $65 and $180.

Unlock the Best of Lake George

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Lake George

Lake George, traditionally known as Weereewa or Ngungara, is an intriguing endorheic lake in southeastern New South Wales, Australia. Situated approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Canberra, it lies adjacent to the Federal Highway, en route to Sydney. The lake's Aboriginal name, Weereewa, possibly translates to 'bad water' due to its salinity, or it may be derived from an Aboriginal word for eagle, a common sight in the area. Believed to be over a million years old, Lake George lacks a surface outflow to rivers or oceans. Its formation is attributed to significant crustal movement that created the Lake George Escarpment, blocking the original streams that once drained into the Yass River. This geological history has resulted in a shallow lake with dramatically fluctuating water levels, influenced by rainfall, evaporation, and wind. In dry periods, the lake can completely disappear, its bed transforming into grazing land. European discovery of the lake occurred in 1820 by Joseph Wild, and it was subsequently named Lake George after King George III. Although considered as a possible site for the Australian capital in the early 1900s, the limited freshwater availability led to the selection of Canberra instead. Today, Lake George remains a natural wonder, offering scenic views and a glimpse into the region's geological past. The nearby Weereewa Lookout provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding wind farms.

Popular Experiences near Lake George

Popular Hotels near Lake George

Select Currency