Attractions

Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve

This Reserve is internationally known for its wide variety of animal life, especially waterbirds, which thrive in this attractive man-made habitat. The Dam was built in the late 1950's to service the short-lived rice growing plantations nearby. Since then, the area has served as a wildlife sanctuary. There are viewing platforms along the Dam wall and walking tracks so you can get up close to the wetlands without getting your feet wet.

Access

Fogg Dam is located approximately 52 km east of Darwin along the Arnhem Highway. It has all weather access throughout the year.

When To Visit

By visiting the Reserve throughout the year you can see how wildlife and the landscape changes in response to the seasons. The wildlife are most active during the cooler times of the day, early to mid-morning and mid to late afternoon.

August to November is the best time to see large numbers of birds as the Dam becomes one of the few water bodies in the surrounding drying wetlands.

Between December and July you may find a greater variety of birds, some quite easy to photograph, amongst lilies and other water plants which flower at this time of year.

Vehicles are permitted to drive across the Dam wall. However, to avoid disturbing birdlife or other visitors who may be walking across the Dam, why not park your vehicle and walk.

What To See and Do

Woodland to Waterlily Walk: Signs along this walk highlight the seasonal changes in a number of plant communities: woodlands, freshwater mangroves, paperbark forests and flooded plains. The walk is about 2 km in length. (Allow 45 minutes to complete - it is also accessable by wheelchairs.
Monsoon Rainforest Walk: A signposted track and boardwalk takes you through patches of monsoon rainforest and paperbark swamp. The trail is approximately 3.6 km in length. (All 2 hours to complete - it is also accessable by wheelchairs).
Wildlife: Large numbers of waterbirds, Agile Wallabies and other small mammals inhabit the Dam and surrounds. The harmless Water Python can be commonly seen in the evenings. Bird species include Magpie Geese, Comb-crested Jacanas, Pygmy Geese and Egrets.
Night Walks: During the dry season, Ranger guided walks encourage visitors to experience the wide diversity of nocturnal wildlife found around the Dam. You may prefer to explore on your own - make sure you are well equipped with insect repellant and a torch.

Protect Your Reserve

All native plants and animals in the Reserve are protected. Guns and traps are prohibited.
Pets are totally banned from the Reserve as they pose a threat to native wildlife and can disrupt other visitors.
Please take all your litter with you and dispose of it properly.

Safety

Crocodiles: For your own safety, do not swim or stand in the water. Saltwater Crocodiles are found in and around Fogg Dam.
Water: Treated drinking water is not provided in this park. Be on the safe side and take your own wherever you travel in the Territory.
Walking: Prepare well when walking. Sturdy footwear, insect repellant, a hat and drinking water are advisable. Do not walk alone.

More Information

Parks & Wildlife Commission of the Northern Territory
Head Office - Goyder Centre
25 Chung Wah Tce PALMERSTON NT 0830
PO Box 496 PALMERSTON NT 0831
Ph: (08) 8999 5511

Adelaide River District Office
Ph: (08) 8988 8009
Fax: (08) 8988 8019