Lake Fyans stretches out at the foot of the eastern Grampians (Gariwerd) — a whole different scene from the mountains around Stawell and Halls Gap. Where the sandstone ridges have crumbled away, the lake opens up, its sandy banks a perfect match for the surrounding countryside. On the far side of the lake — if you look really hard, you can see the ranges of Grampians National Park, rising up to take centre stage across the western horizon.
Lake Fyans is a highlight for me because of that contrast. After pushing up rough tracks, wading through waterfalls, and being cooped up in these really enclosed valleys, the Lake offers a really welcome respite—it’s a treat to find yourself in the open. Kelleys Beach is where I think you’ll find yourself pretty happy with just a fishing rod and a few hours sitting down by the water. That contrast is why I reckon you should try to fit in a visit to the lake on a Grampians trip.
Life By The Water
Kelleys Beach is the lake’s designated public swimming area, just a bit of sand and shallow water, with that wonderful view of the Grampians stretching out across the western view. Plus, there’s a picnic area too, so it’s a great place to spend the afternoon after a morning out on the tracks.
Out on the lake it’s a different pace altogether. Sailing and paddle boarding take to the water alongside water skiing and jet skiing, provided the weather and lake level cooperate. Make sure you check the water level first, though; Fyans is a pretty shallow lake, and if it’s declining, it won’t be long before a falling lake cuts off access to the boat ramp and all the other boating facilities.
A Summer Swim
Kelleys Beach has the easiest public access. Lake Fyans Holiday Park has its own Holiday Park beach, putting the water within walking distance for guests.
Conditions are less predictable than the sandy shoreline suggests. Water temperature, wind, level and water clarity all matter. With children or weaker swimmers, judge the lake as you find it and heed current warnings.
Trout And Redfin
For anglers, the headline species are redfin, brown trout and rainbow trout. There are roughly 10 kilometres of shoreline, with fishing from both the bank and a boat.
Bait, trolling, lure casting and soft plastics give anglers options as the water changes. The Victorian Fisheries Authority notes particularly good fishing above roughly 50% capacity, though fish can still be caught below that mark. The current level is worth checking before deciding whether to work the bank or launch a boat.
Victorian recreational fishing regulations apply, including current licensing, method, size and bag-limit requirements.
Nights By The Shore
For restaurants, major walks and easy access to the central ranges, Halls Gap wins. Lake Fyans suits a different sort of stay — one built around an early cast, a swim or getting the boat onto the water.
Lake Fyans Holiday Park has powered sites, unpowered camping spots, cabins and a camp kitchen, with the lake directly alongside. Travellers requiring disabled access or specific facilities should confirm arrangements before booking.
Beyond The Water
Lake Fyans sits east of the ranges near Pomonal and Mokepilly Road. Pair it with this side of the Grampians rather than driving out from Halls Gap simply to see the lake.
Lake Bellfield serves a different purpose. Lake Fyans covers 526 hectares and holds about 21,000 ML; its broad, shallow water, sandy shoreline, and fishing give it a stronger recreational character. Bellfield sits closer to Halls Gap and slips more readily into a central Grampians sightseeing day.
If I had a free afternoon and the walking boots were staying in the car, I would choose Lake Fyans. Swim. Cast a line. Follow the shore until the ranges begin to lose their detail in the evening light.
Cyclists have another way in. The official Lake Fyans Loop runs from Halls Gap through Pomonal and the lake, advertised at 37 kilometres; its published sections total 36.5 kilometres.
Plan Your Visit
| Planning | Lake Fyans |
| Best for | Swimming, fishing, boating and paddle boarding |
| Public swimming | Kelleys Beach |
| Fishing | Redfin, brown trout and rainbow trout |
| Lake area | About 526 ha |
| Capacity | About 21,000 ML |
| Boating | Boat launching and water activities available |
| Camping | Designated sites at Lake Fyans Holiday Park |
| Cycling | 37 km Lake Fyans Loop from Halls Gap |
| Time needed | 1–2 hours for a short visit; half-day for water activities |
| Entry | Free public access |
Getting There
Lake Fyans lies between Stawell and Halls Gap, below the eastern side of Grampians National Park, with access through the Pomonal and Mokepilly Road area.
For public swimming, navigate to Kelleys Beach. It is a more useful destination than dropping a pin somewhere on the lake’s much longer shoreline.
When To Go
Summer puts swimming, paddleboarding, water skiing, and jet skiing on the agenda, along with heat, changing water conditions, and the possibility of severe fire weather.
Cooler days favour fishing, cycling and lakeside walks. More important than the season is the combination of weather and water level on the day.
Time To Allow
Give Kelleys Beach and the shoreline a good 1–2 hours – there’s plenty to do there, from swimming to fishing to paddle boarding, so we’re talking half a day at least if you plan on doing any of those things.
If the main reason for your trip is to get out on the water, then it makes sense to stay overnight; there’s nothing like an early start to fishing or a boat trip to make it worthwhile. Otherwise, Lake Fyans is the perfect quieter spot to fit into a broader Grampians trip.
