Pykes Creek Reservoir, 72 km west of Melbourne near Ballan, is a popular freshwater recreation area set among grassy hills on the Werribee River tributary. The designated swimming area, Swimmer's Cove, offers a sheltered, gently sloping gravel entry for swimming and snorkeling, shielded from boat traffic. However, the water is often cloudy with poor visibility, and submerged logs can be hidden in the murk. The reservoir is prone to blue-green algal blooms during warmer months, so always check current warnings before entering the water.
Pykes Creek Reservoir
IntermediateMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 4.9 knPrecipitation 63 mmTidal Phase unknown
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Blue-green algal blooms
Regular blue-green algae outbreaks occur during the warmer months (spring through autumn), causing poor water quality and potential health risks. Check Southern Rural Water alerts before visiting.
Moderate risk: Boat traffic
The reservoir is popular for powerboats, jet skis, and water sports. Swimmers should stay within designated Swimmer's Cove where boats are prohibited.
Low risk: Submerged logs and debris
Submerged logs and debris are present in Swimmer's Cove and can be difficult to see in the murky, cloudy water.
Low risk: Variable water levels
The reservoir primarily supplies irrigation water, so water levels can vary significantly, affecting access and underwater hazards.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Exit north off the Western Freeway (M8) at Greendale-Myrniong Road and turn left into Pykes Creek Road immediately after exiting. The reservoir is located about 75 km (1 hour drive) northwest of Melbourne CBD near Myrniong, VIC.
Parking & facilities
Free car parking available on-site at the recreation area.
parkingtoiletspicnic_tablesboat_ramp
No entrance fee. Free entry.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports