Storm King Dam

The dam wall stretches 198 metres across the valley and backs up to 2,180 megalitres of water, a surprisingly large lake in this hilly granite country. Anglers cast for golden perch, Murray cod, silver perch, jewfish, and river blackfish. A Queensland fishing licence is required for anyone over 18, available from Australia Post outlets. The boat ramp and jetty make it straightforward to launch kayaks, canoes, rowing craft, and water-ski boats, with no restrictions on vessel type.

Land-based facilities include toilets, picnic tables, wood barbecues, drinking water, a swimming area, and a playground, making the dam a genuinely family-friendly destination year-round. Water birds including pelicans are regular visitors to the lake's shores, adding to the appeal for wildlife watchers and photographers. The surrounding granite hills and eucalypt bush provide a scenic backdrop that feels a world away from the highway.

The dam was named after the Storm King Mining Company, which was itself named after the ship HMS Storm King that brought founders John Yaldwyn and James Ross to Australia in 1872. That gold-rush heritage is woven through the whole Stanthorpe region, and a visit to the dam makes a satisfying half-day complement to wine country touring or a morning at Girraween National Park.