After seeing pictures of a lake in South West Australia with dazzling blue water, I decided it was time to see it with my own eyes. Black Diamond Lake, about 2 hours from Perth, is a popular day trip destination during the summer months in Western Australia.
This guide has all the information needed to plan a visit to this popular swimming spot.
Where Is It?
It takes about 2 hours from Perth by car to reach Black Diamond Lake.
Follow Google Maps and you’ll be set – lookout for the turn off from Coalfields Rd into Ferguson Rd, the lake will be on your right.
We set ourselves up at a shady spot indicated on the map below. That side of the lake is accessible by 2WD car.
To reach the opposite side of the lake, you will need a 4WD or to walk on foot.
Best Time to Visit
You can visit Black Diamond Lake as a day trip, or extend it into camping or weekend trip to the Ferguson Valley region.
I’d recommend visiting in the summer months so you can spend your time enjoying the water. In between November and April is best.
Just note it will be busier around long weekends and summer school holidays.
We visited on Australia Day in January 2021, arriving around 9.30am. It wasn’t too busy upon arrival, but by 11am it was quite full so we were glad to have secured our spot in the shade by the water earlier on.
Camping at Black Diamond Lake
There is no camping allowed at Black Diamond Lake. We saw the ranger doing the rounds when we visited.
For nearby camping sites, try Stockton Lake (another turquoise lake of a former mine site) or Potters Gorge in Wellington National Park. There’s also a caravan park in Collie.
Why is Black Diamond Lake So Blue?
The lake is a former open cut mine site, and I’ve heard the limestone base of the lake is what causes the water to look so blue.
The lake will look its bluest when the sun is out, when its cloudy it will take on a duller green hue.
What to Bring
There are no facilities at the lake so bring everything you need for the day with you. We packed a picnic lunch, lots of water, a picnic rug, towels, sunscreen and a floatie. If you have one, bring a paddle board, kayak or canoe!
Portaloo toilets were available when we visited during the summer months, but otherwise there were no other facilities at the lake.
Dogs are allowed, on leash.
We spent the morning swimming, having a float and listening to music.
You may hear that you can’t swim in the lake due to bacteria. This wasn’t an issue when we visited, the lake gets regularly checked by the Shire of Collie.
I put my head underwater and survived, but if you are concerned, keep your head above the water.
2024 Update: With Black Diamond Lake growing in popularity, the Shire have now installed signs saying not to put your head underwater. On our last visit, there were no signs!
Final Thoughts – Visiting Black Diamond Lake
That wraps up with guide with all you need to know about visiting the glorious Black Diamond Lake. While you’re in the area, make sure to swing past the curious Gnomesville if you haven’t been before!
Make sure to check out my other travel guides to make the most of your time in Perth and the South West.
Happy adventuring!
What a gorgeous spot! I’ved pinned it for when I finally make it to Perth…hopefully it’s not that far away….
This looks like a beautiful place to visit! I love how crystal clear the water is. I would love floating around, kayaking, or paddleboarding in this lake!
Ahhh this looks so beautiful! Definitely makes me want to spend a lot more time exploring Western Australia. Hopefully I can get on a plane over there soon!