Lake Lenthall
Recent rainfall has filled Lake Lenthall to above 100% and automatic releases from the dam are ongoing to safely manage the water level.
Whilst releases are being made the camping and recreation site will be closed to ensure public safety; however, will be reopened once releases are complete.
It is recommend to phone the rangers office on 4129 4833 if planning a visit to confirm if the site has reopened.
Lake Lenthall is a great recreational facility for those who enjoy camping, boating, fishing, kayaking or just relaxing in a family-friendly environment. It is commonly referred to as Lenthalls Dam and is located off the Bruce Highway between Maryborough and Torbanlea in the Wongi Forestry.
Visitors need to be aware that access to Lake Lenthall is via a rough dirt road. The road is controlled and maintained by Forest Products, a business unit of the Queensland Government. Accessing Lake Lenthall is at your own risk and a 4WD is recommended. The Lake Lenthall Ranger will not be able to assist with towing vehicles if they become stuck.
GPS and Google Maps can provide unreliable directions into the recreation area. Please see below the directional map or call the Rangers Office before travelling to the Lake.
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Opening hours and on-site contact
The gates are open for public access from 6am to 8pm daily and the Lake Lenthall Ranger's Office can be contacted on (07) 4129 4833.
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Getting there
Access to Lake Lenthall is via an unmaintained dirt road, off the Bruce Highway between Maryborough and Torbanlea.
Click here to view the Lake Lenthall access map
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Facilities
BBQ facilities available
Boat ramp
Camping available (bookings are essential)
No drinking water available – please bring your own
No pets allowed
No swimming is permitted in the Lake
Onsite Ranger
Camping, Boating and Fishing, Water quality
Please click on the tiles below for comprehensive information regarding facilities, fees, regulations and safety.
About the lake
Lake Lenthall is located in the Wongi State Forest, off the Bruce Highway between Maryborough and Howard.
Lake Lenthall is the water supply for Hervey Bay and surrounding region. Its capacity is 29,500ML.
The dam was originally built in 1984 at the confluence of six creeks, Logbridge Creek, Doongul Creek, Harwood Creek, Sugar Bag Creek, Duckinwilla Creek and Woolmer Creek. In 2006, the dam wall was raised two metres with the addition of 5 crest gates to increase the capacity of the dam from 17,800 ML to 29,500 ML and ensure a greater water supply for the area. The height of the dam spillway now sits at 25.86m AHD.
Lake Lenthall flows downstream into the Burrum River, which leads into the ocean at Burrum Heads. On the Burrum River lay two weirs, Burrum Weir #1 and Burrum Weir #2. These act as storage ponds for water supply.
The crest gates on the dam allow for water to be released to flow into the river downstream. FCRC collects water for treatment from an offtake pump tower downstream at Burrum Weir #1. This water is then pumped to Burgowan Water Treatment Plant to be treated for drinking water supply. Burgowan WTP supplies treated drinking water to Hervey Bay, Toogoom, Burrum Heads, Torbanlea and Howard. On average the WTP treats 25-30 ML/day to supply these areas.
Click here to view the Lake Lenthall Camping and Fishing brochure