Western Cape, George, Garden Route Dam
Garden Route Dam is George's main municipal reservoir below the Outeniqua Mountains. The dam sits near Loerie Park. Locals fish, hike, picnic, and ride mountain-bike trails around the water.
Garden Route Dam is public municipal water managed by George Municipality. Barbel, bass, and carp are common. Anglers also report eel. Bank angling works from open shoreline spots around the dam. Fishing requires a free annual municipal permit from Law Enforcement. You must also hold a valid CapeNature freshwater angling licence. Permits list allowed activities such as catch and release fishing, swimming, or rowing. Fishing competitions are not allowed. Confirm current rules and permit conditions with the venue before you visit.
The Garden Route Dam lies at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains near Loerie Park in George. Walking, trail running, and mountain-biking routes circle the water. Picnic spots and open lawns sit along parts of the shore. Non-motorised boating such as kayaking is allowed in some areas. Security patrols the dam during the week and on weekends. This is a day-visit municipal dam. There is no campsite or lodge on the water. The dam supplies drinking water to George. Access gates and boom gates control some entry points. Loerie Park and Eden suburbs sit nearby. The municipal fishing permit is free for one year when you apply with ID and a CapeNature angling licence. Confirm permit steps and any access rules with the venue before you book. Last updated at: 7 September 2026.
Information out of date? Submit an update
Stay
Accommodation
Amenities
Operating hours
Dam access is typically open daily. Law Enforcement office Mon to Fri 07:45 to 16:30 for permit applications.
Other locations on DaarByt nearby. Book online or request a booking.
Stompies Oord
Stompies Oord is a camping and fishing resort on Stompdrift Dam near De Rust in the Klein Karoo. Camp on the high-water mark, fish for carp, bass and barbel, or visit for a day braai by the water.
