Black Diamond Lake, Collie, WA: Swimming safety & camping

Just outside Collie, Western Australia, Black Diamond Lake has unusually bright water. But what causes the eerily blue water, is swimming in Black Diamond Lake safe, and how far is it from Perth?

Black Diamond Lake near Collie in Western Australia has become an Instagram hit in recent years. But it seems a shame to visit just to take photos – you might as well go for a swim in Black Diamond Lake, too.

Why is the water at Black Diamond Lake so bright?

This Western Australian lake is a former mine, which was abandoned in the 1950s. Since then, Black Diamond Lake has filled with water. And that water has an astonishing bright turquoise-blue colour.

No-one quite knows why the water in Black Diamond Lake, Collie, is so bright. One theory is the limestone floor at the bottom of the mine reflecting sunlight back. Another is the minerals released into the water. Either way, it looks stunning.

Black Diamond Lake near Collie, WA. Photo courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

The photogenic nature of this Western Australian lake makes it a seemingly perfect spot for a picnic. But, be warned, there are limited facilities at Black Diamond Lake. No camping is allowed, there are no toilets and there is no drinking water. Whatever you bring with you, you’re going to have to take out again. Look out for bull ants, too – the area is notorious for them.

Swimming in Black Diamond Lake, Collie

But is it safe to swim in Black Diamond Lake? Well, it is certainly not forbidden. But you do swim in this photogenic lake at your own risk. Signs warn of high levels of bacteria, and encourage visitors to call the Collie Shire for up-to-date information.

Realistically, no-one is going to do this. So be aware of the risk, and make your own decision accordingly. You’re certainly better off kayaking or paddleboarding. And, if you do decide to swim in Black Diamond Lake, then keep your head above the water.

Perth to Collie distance and driving time

Collie is in the South West region of Western Australia. It’s about 59km west of Bunbury. The distance from Perth to Collie is 201km, making for a driving time of 2h6m. That’s going along the quickest route via Mandurah and Preston Beach. Go along the South Western Highway via Pinjarra, Waroona, Yarloop and Harvey, and the distance from Perth to Collie is a slightly shorter 194km. But the driving time is longer – around two hours and 24 minutes.