Free State, Theunissen, Erfenis Dam
Erfenis Dam Nature Reserve is a DESTEA provincial reserve on the northern shore of Erfenis Dam near Theunissen. Camp on the open bank, fish carp and yellowfish, and watch game on the grasslands.
Erfenis Dam holds carp, barbel, yellowfish, and mudfish. The dam covers about 3 300 hectares when full. Shore fishing works from the open shoreline in the reserve. Boating and slipways are available for anglers who want to reach deeper water. Papgooi is the common bank method. Confirm fishing rules and boat rules with the venue before you visit.
The reserve sits on the northern shore of Erfenis Dam between Theunissen and Winburg. Access is off the R708 about 18 km east of Theunissen. The grassland reserve is about 700 hectares with tourist roads for game viewing. Black wildebeest, blesbok, springbok, zebra, and other antelope are often seen. Fish eagle and waterfowl are common on the dam. Caravan sites have power points and ablutions. Extra shoreline stands have ablutions but no power. A bush camp has five huts with beds and a fridge near shared ablutions, a scullery, and a lapa. Slipways and boathouses serve boaters. No shop is on site. Bring your own food and braai wood. Gate hours are 06:00 to 21:00. The office is open 07:30 to 16:00. Day visitors and overnight guests are welcome. Kids are welcome. Entry, camping, hut, and angling fees apply. Confirm the price with the venue before you book. Last updated at: 7 September 2026.
Information out of date? Submit an update
Stay
Accommodation
Amenities
Operating hours
Gate 06:00 to 21:00. Office 07:30 to 16:00.
Other locations on DaarByt nearby. Book online or request a booking.
Oom Appel Se Plek
Oom Appel Se Plek is a farm camping spot on the Erfenis Dam shore near Theunissen. Anglers camp on open banks and fish carp, barbel, yellowfish, and mudfish.
Aldam Resort
Aldam Resort sits on Allemanskraal Dam about 10 km off the N1 near Ventersburg. You camp on grass stands or stay in a thatched unit and fish the dam from an open bank.
Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve
Willem Pretorius Nature Reserve is the oldest provincial reserve in the Free State. It wraps Allemanskraal Dam near Ventersburg. Camp, fish carp and yellowfish, and watch game on the veld.
