Free State, Bloemhof, Bloemhof Dam
Sandveld Nature Reserve is a DESTEA provincial reserve on the Free State shore of Bloemhof Dam near Bloemhof. Stay in chalets or camp on the dam and fish for carp, barbel, and yellowfish.
Bloemhof Dam is one of the best freshwater angling dams in the country. Carp and barbel are common. Yellowfish and mudfish also occur in these waters. Bank anglers fish from picnic sites along the shoreline. Boats are allowed for aquatic sport. Confirm angling permits and boat rules with the venue before you visit.
The reserve lies on the R34 between Hoopstad and Bloemhof, about 10 km from Bloemhof and 200 km northwest of Bloemfontein. Sandy Kalahari thornveld and camel thorn savanna cover roughly 37 000 hectares. Game such as white rhino, giraffe, buffalo, sable, and roan antelope roam the veld. Birders come for Kalahari thornveld specials and large waterbird numbers on the dam. Eighteen air-conditioned chalets sleep from three to eight guests. Each has DSTV and a braai area. Twenty powered caravan stands and shoreline camping without power share communal ablution blocks. A small hall is available for functions. No shop is on site. Bring your own food and braai wood. The gate is open 24 hours. The office is open 07:30 to 16:00 on weekdays. Day visitors and overnight guests are welcome. Entry, accommodation, and angling fees apply. Confirm the price with the venue before you book. Last updated at: 17 September 2026.
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Stay
Accommodation
Amenities
Operating hours
Gate 24 hours. Office 07:30 to 16:00 weekdays.
Other locations on DaarByt nearby. Book online or request a booking.
Riverview Resort
Riverview Resort sits on the Vaal River at Die Hoek near Bloemhof. Four self-catering chalets and riverbank fishing decks overlook the water below Bloemhof Dam. Guests fish barbel, carp, kurper, bass, and yellowfish from paved stands a short walk from the units.
Dei Gratia Mansion
Dei Gratia Mansion is a holiday home rental on the Vaal River at Die Hoek in Bloemhof. The property has tiered lawns down to the water with bank fishing for barbel, carp, kurper, and yellowfish.
Dundee Fishing Resort
Dundee Fishing Resort sits on the Vaal River about 4 km north of Bloemhof. Pieter and Sumari run this working farm as self-catering chalets, a guest house, and camping for anglers and families.
