Free State, Harrismith, Sterkfontein Dam
Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve is a DESTEA provincial reserve on Sterkfontein Dam near Harrismith. Camp on the shore, stay in chalets, and fish for yellowfish, carp, bass, and barbel on one of South Africa's best fly-fishing waters.
Sterkfontein Dam holds yellowfish, carp, bass, and barbel. The dam is a well-known fly-fishing destination with clear highland water. Bank anglers and boat anglers use slipways and shoreline campsites. Confirm angling permits, boat rules, and bag limits with the venue before you visit.
The reserve covers 18 000 hectares of rugged mountain veld around Sterkfontein Dam. It sits about 23 km from Harrismith on the R74 toward Bergville. Reedbuck, grey rhebok, and bearded vultures live in the hills. Visitors can self-drive game routes, hike, and picnic on the shore. The caravan park has ablutions and power points. Fifty shoreline campsites sit without electricity. Seventeen fully equipped chalets overlook the dam and mountains. Resort chalets were under refurbishment on the official page at research time. Slipways and boathouses serve boat anglers. The reserve hosts the annual Sterkfontein Mile Swim in February. Prevailing winds make the dam popular for sailing. Gate hours are 06:00 to 22:00 daily. Camping, chalet, and angling fees apply. Confirm the price with the venue before you book. Last updated at: 18 September 2026.
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Stay
Accommodation
Amenities
Operating hours
Gate 06:00 to 22:00 daily.
Other locations on DaarByt nearby. Book online or request a booking.
Qwantani
Qwantani is a First Group resort on the Sterkfontein Dam shore near Harrismith. Self-catering chalets sit on open lawns with Drakensberg foothills across the water.
MacFarlanes
MacFarlanes is a self-catering country house on Nesshurst Farm near Harrismith. The property sits on a private dam with bass fishing, canoes, and mountain views.
The Border Post
The Border Post is a bed and breakfast and coffee shop at the top of Oliviershoek Pass near Bergville. The restored 1936 farmhouse has seven ensuite rooms with garden views over the Northern Drakensberg and Sterkfontein Dam.
