Little Blue Lake sinkhole in Mount Gambier, South Australia: Can I swim?
Little Blue Lake near Mount Gambier in South Australia is a swimming hole inside a volcanic sinkhole. Brace yourself for cold water at this Limestone Coast sinkhole, though…
Little Blue Lake near Mount Gambier in South Australia is one of the most enjoyable swimming holes in Australia.
This South Australian swimming hole is part of the Limestone Coast region, but it is the result of volcanic activity. It’s in the Kanawinka volcanic area, between two dormant volcanoes – Mount Shanck and Mount Gambier.
What is Little Blue Lake, Mount Gambier?
Little Blue Lake near Mount Gambier is a water-filled sinkhole. It was originally an underground cavern, but the cave roof collapsed, exposing it to the elements. It’s a similar story at other nearby attractions, the Kilsby Sinkhole and Umpherston Sinkhole.
Little Blue Lake is about 40 metres in diameter, and gets surprisingly deep. The South Australian Tourism Commission estimates a depth of about 47 metres at the deepest point of Little Blue Lake. It is recommended for experienced swimmers only due to the depth of the water. When the water gets that deep, you should also be wary of just how cold Little Blue Lake can get.
The name, however, is misleading. In the past, the water of Little Blue Lake did turn a deep cobalt blue in a similar way to Mount Gambier’s more famous Blue Lake. However, in recent years, the colour of Little Blue Lake has been a more subdued greenish-blue.
Swimming at Little Blue Lake sinkhole, South Australia
The rock walls around the lake are fairly steep, but stairs have been cut into them. There’s also a floating pontoon to provide easier access to the water.
Little Blue Lake is an unusual swimming hole, and it’s right in the middle of a paddock. But if you’re passing through on a hot day, perhaps on the drive from Melbourne to Adelaide, it’s a fabulous spot to spend an hour or so in.
Other Limestone Coast attractions include the Tantanoola Caves, Naracoorte Caves near Naracoorte, Mayura Station and Ewens Ponds.
Top Mount Gambier accommodation choices
The best places to stay in Mount Gambier are:
- For something fun and unusual: Old Mount Gambier Gaol.
- For 19th century charm and grandeur: Colhurst House.
- For a good quality motel with low prices: Blue Lake Motel.
- For studio apartments with kitchenettes, washing machines & tumble dryers: Aloha Central Premium Studios.
More South Australia travel
Camp by the Murray River in South Australia at the Mannum caravan park in Mannum.
Stay by the lake at the Lake Bonney caravan park in Barmera.
Drink craft beers at the Uraidla Hotel in the Adelaide Hills.
What are the best stops on the Port Augusta to Ceduna drive?
How long is the drive from Mildura to Port Augusta?