Guide to Lake Argyle

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Why visit Lake Argyle

For campervan travellers exploring Western Australia in a Britz campervan, Lake Argyle is an easy and rewarding addition to a Kimberley road trip. The drive from Kununurra is sealed, the views are big, and there are campervan-friendly places to stay nearby. It also works well as a stop between Kununurra, the Northern Territory border, the Gibb River Road and longer routes across the Kimberley.

Lake Argyle was created by the damming of the Ord River and is now one of Australia’s largest freshwater lakes. Its size can be hard to take in from the road, which is why many visitors choose to see it from the water on a cruise or from a lookout above the lake.

Whether you are visiting for a swim, a sunset cruise, a night at the caravan park or a scenic stop on your way through the Kimberley, Lake Argyle is a place worth slowing down for.

Best things to do at Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is an easy place to enjoy at your own pace. You can keep things simple with a swim and a lookout stop or stay overnight and make time for a lake cruise, wildlife spotting and a sunset drink with a view.

Some of the best things to do at Lake Argyle include:

Take a Lake Argyle cruise: A Lake Argyle cruise is one of the best ways to appreciate the size of the lake. Cruises usually take visitors past islands, bays, red cliffs and wildlife habitats, with sunset cruises especially popular.
See the Ord River Dam wall: The Diversion Dam is the reason Lake Argyle exists. A stop near the dam wall gives you a better sense of the engineering behind the lake and the scale of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme.
Swim in Lake Argyle: Swimming is possible in the freshwater lake, with access available from the boat ramp or via walking access from Lake Argyle Village. The lake is home to freshwater crocodiles, so follow local advice, swim only where recommended and never approach wildlife.
Visit the Lake Argyle Museum: Also known as the Argyle Homestead Museum, this historic stop offers a fascinating look at the Durack family and the early pastoral history of the East Kimberley. Visitors can walk through the restored homestead, see historic photographs, furniture and family memorabilia, and learn more about the people and stories connected to the area.
Look for wildlife: Lake Argyle and the surrounding wetlands support freshwater crocodiles, fish, wallabies and a wide range of birdlife. Keep an eye out for sea eagles, cormorants and other waterbirds around the lake.
Enjoy the lookouts: There are scenic lookouts around Lake Argyle Road, the dam wall and Lake Argyle Village. These are good places to stop for photos,
Visit the Lake Argyle infinity pool: The infinity pool at Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle is one of the most photographed pools in the Kimberley. It looks out over the lake and escarpments, making it a memorable place to cool off after a day on the road.

Best time to visit Lake Argyle

The best time to visit Lake Argyle is during the dry season, generally from May to October. This is when the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities, road access is more reliable and conditions are usually better for cruising, swimming and sightseeing.

As a guide:

May to June: A great time to visit, with warm days, cooler nights and a landscape still carrying some post-wet-season freshness.
July to August: One of the most popular times for Kimberley travel. Days are generally warm and clear, making this a good period for cruises, campervan touring and overnight stays.
September to October: Conditions become hotter as the build-up approaches. Visit lookouts and walking areas early in the day, then cool off at the lake or pool.
November to April: This is the hotter, wetter part of the year. Heavy rain and storms can affect travel conditions across the Kimberley, although Lake Argyle can still be visited depending on weather and local conditions.

If you are planning a broader Kimberley road trip, keep your itinerary flexible and check local conditions before setting off.

Weather at Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle has a Kimberley climate, with a warm dry season and a hot wet season. Even in the cooler months, the sun can be strong and shade may be limited around lookouts, the boat ramp and day-use areas.

Things to be aware of include:

Dry-season days are usually warm and clear.
Nights can be cooler from June to August.
The wet season can bring heat, humidity, storms and heavy rain.
Outdoor activities are more comfortable earlier in the day.
Sun protection is essential year-round.
Cruise schedules and lake activities can be affected by weather.

For campervan travellers, the dry season is usually the easiest time to plan longer drives, outdoor activities and overnight stays around Lake Argyle.

How to get to Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is one of the easier East Kimberley attractions to reach by campervan.

Key access details:

Lake Argyle is around 70 km from Kununurra.
It is close to the Western Australia and Northern Territory border.
Access is via Lake Argyle Road from the Victoria Highway.
The road to Lake Argyle Village is sealed.
A 4WD is not usually required in normal conditions.
The drive from Kununurra takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Fuel, groceries and major services are best accessed in Kununurra.
Check local conditions before travelling during the wet season.

If you are hiring with Britz, Lake Argyle can be visited in a 2WD campervan or 4WD camper, depending on your wider route. If you are also planning to travel along the Gibb River Road or to more remote Kimberley locations, you may need a suitable 4WD camper.

Where to park your campervan at Lake Argyle

There are several places where campervan travellers can park while visiting Lake Argyle. Around Lake Argyle Village and Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle, use the designated visitor and guest parking areas.

You can also access public areas near the lake, boat ramp and dam wall. The sealed road continues past Lake Argyle Village towards the dam wall and day-use areas, with picnic facilities and lookouts along the way.

When parking your campervan:

Use designated parking areas only.
Do not block boat ramp access, roads or turning areas.
Check signs before driving beyond Lake Argyle Village.
Avoid parking on vegetation or unmarked ground.
Take valuables with you where possible.
Carry water, sunscreen and a hat when leaving your vehicle.
Allow time for photo stops and slower driving near lookouts.

Parking and access conditions can change, so check local signs when you arrive.

How long to allow for visiting Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle can be visited as a half-day trip from Kununurra, but it is worth allowing more time if your itinerary allows.

A half-day visit might include:

Driving from Kununurra to Lake Argyle.
Stopping at lookouts and the dam wall.
Having lunch or a swim at Lake Argyle Village.
Returning to Kununurra in the afternoon.

A full day gives you time to add a Lake Argyle cruise, spend longer at the water, take more photo stops and enjoy the area without rushing.

For campervan travellers, an overnight stay is even better. Staying near the lake means you can enjoy sunset, make use of campground facilities, cool off in the pool and continue your Kimberley road trip the next morning.

Lake Argyle entry fees and permits

There are no national park-style entry fees for visiting Lake Argyle itself. However, costs apply for activities, tours, accommodation, camping and resort facilities.

Before travelling, check the latest:

Cruise availability and prices
Campground rates
Pool access conditions
Road and weather updates
Boat ramp access
Local safety advice
Any seasonal closures or restrictions

If you are staying at Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle, book ahead during the dry season, as Lake Argyle is a popular stop on Kimberley road trip itineraries.

Campgrounds near Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is well set up for campervan travellers, with camping and caravan park options either at the lake or in nearby Kununurra. If you want the easiest access to the lake, staying at Lake Argyle Village is the most convenient choice.

Useful campground options include:

Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle: Located at Lake Argyle Village, this is the main campground option for travellers who want to stay close to the lake. Accommodation options include powered caravan sites, camping sites and resort facilities. Guests can access amenities such as the swimming pool, restaurant, general store and activity booking options.
Discovery Parks – Lake Kununurra: Located in Kununurra, this can be a practical option if you want to base yourself in town and take a day trip to Lake Argyle. It offers easy access to shops, fuel and other Kununurra attractions.
Kimberleyland Waterfront Holiday Park: Also in Kununurra, this waterfront holiday park is another useful base for campervan travellers. It works well if you want to explore Lake Argyle, Lake Kununurra, Mirima National Park and the wider East Kimberley from one place.

Book ahead during the dry season, especially from June to August when many travellers are touring the Kimberley by campervan.

Lake Argyle campervan travel tips

Lake Argyle is easier to reach than many Kimberley attractions, but it is still worth planning ahead. Distances in this part of Western Australia are long, and services are limited once you leave Kununurra.

Before you go, make sure you:

Fuel up in Kununurra before heading to the lake.
Carry drinking water and sun protection.
Book campground sites ahead in the dry season.
Check cruise times before you arrive.
Follow all signs around the dam wall and boat ramp.
Swim only where local advice says it is suitable.
Keep a safe distance from freshwater crocodiles and other wildlife.
Download maps before leaving town.
Avoid driving tired, especially on longer Kimberley routes.
Check whether your wider route suits your Britz campervan.

If Lake Argyle is part of a longer trip, Britz has practical advice for planning an Australian 4WD adventure, especially if you are combining sealed-road attractions with more remote Kimberley roads.

FAQs about Lake Argyle

Do you need a 4WD to visit Lake Argyle?
No. The road from Kununurra to Lake Argyle Village is sealed, so a 4WD is not usually required in normal conditions. However, if your wider route includes remote Kimberley roads, you may need a suitable Britz 4WD camper.
How far is Lake Argyle from Kununurra?
Lake Argyle is around 70 km from Kununurra, making it an easy day trip or overnight stop for campervan travellers.
Can you swim at Lake Argyle?
Yes, swimming is possible in the freshwater lake, with access from the boat ramp or walking tracks near the village. Always follow local advice, swim only where recommended and keep a safe distance from freshwater crocodiles.
Can you camp at Lake Argyle?
Yes. Discovery Resorts – Lake Argyle has powered caravan sites and camping options close to the lake, along with resort facilities.
What is the best time to visit Lake Argyle?
The best time to visit Lake Argyle is during the dry season, generally from May to October. This is when conditions are usually more comfortable for cruising, swimming, sightseeing and campervan travel.
Is Lake Argyle worth visiting?
Yes. Lake Argyle is one of the most accessible and rewarding stops in the East Kimberley, with lake cruises, swimming, wildlife, lookouts, campground facilities and easy access from Kununurra.
Are there cruises on Lake Argyle?
Yes. Lake Argyle cruises are a popular way to experience the lake, especially at sunset. Check current schedules and book ahead during the dry season.
How long do you need at Lake Argyle?
Allow at least half a day for a quick visit from Kununurra. A full day or overnight stay is better if you want to take a cruise, swim, explore the lookouts and enjoy the lake at a slower pace.