Lake Argyle

WA 6743 • Western Australia

205
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
7773.37 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RuralHistoricRetirees

About Lake Argyle

Lake Argyle is a remote locality in the East Kimberley region of Western Australia, centred on Australia's largest reservoir by volume and one of the largest man-made lakes in the world. Created by the Ord River Dam, completed in 1971, the lake covers an extraordinary 7,773 square kilometres and holds approximately 10.7 billion cubic metres of water — roughly 18 times the volume of Sydney Harbour. The small permanent population of around 205 people lives in and around the tourist village and resort facilities situated on the lake's southern shores. The locality lies approximately 70 kilometres south of Kununurra and is administered as part of the broader Kimberley region.

Lake Argyle is a spectacular tourism destination drawing visitors from across Australia and the world who come to experience its dramatic red gorge scenery, incredible biodiversity, and unique outback lake experience. The lake supports a surprising ecosystem including freshwater crocodiles, numerous fish species, and over 25 species of bat, as well as vast numbers of migratory waterbirds. The Lake Argyle Resort and Caravan Park offers accommodation, tours, and a famous infinity pool overlooking the lake. Sunset cruises, kayaking, and houseboat rentals are among the most popular activities, making it one of the Kimberley's premier eco-tourism attractions.

Lake Argyle falls under postcode 6743 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Kimberley (Mining and Pastoral) electorate.

📍 Location

Postcode
6743
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Perth (UTC+8)
Coordinates
-17.29°, 129.66°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
7773.37 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Commute to Perth CBD

Distance
3200 km
By Train
No rail service
By Car (Peak)
Approximately 34 hours via Great Northern Highway
By Car (Off-Peak)
Approximately 34 hours via Great Northern Highway

🛣️ Kununurra Airport (70km away) has regular flights to Darwin, Perth, and Broome via Rex and Airnorth

Walkability Car Dependent

Extremely remote; all movement requires a vehicle; 4WD recommended in wet season

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
205
0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is Lake Argyle? +

Lake Argyle covers approximately 7,773 square kilometres and holds around 10.7 billion cubic metres of water, making it Australia's largest reservoir by volume — roughly 18 times the volume of Sydney Harbour.

How far is Lake Argyle from Kununurra? +

Lake Argyle is approximately 70 kilometres south of Kununurra via the Kununurra–Lake Argyle Road, about a 45-minute drive.

What activities can you do at Lake Argyle? +

Visitors to Lake Argyle can enjoy sunset cruises, houseboat rentals, kayaking, swimming at the famous infinity pool, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting including freshwater crocodiles and hundreds of bat species.

When is the best time to visit Lake Argyle? +

The best time to visit Lake Argyle is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is warm and dry and all roads and facilities are fully accessible.