Serpentine Main Dam

Set within the scenic Darling Scarp, Serpentine Main Dam is a popular place to enjoy nature, picnic with family, and take in views of one of Western Australia’s key water supply dams.

The dam is located on the Serpentine River and is the larger of the two dams in the area. It sits within Serpentine National Park and is owned and managed by Water Corporation.

For more information about the dam and Water Corporation facilities, visit the Water Corporation website.


Visitor information

Opening hours

Serpentine Main Dam is open:

  • Daily until 6pm

  • Until 5pm from May to October

Opening times may change due to weather, bushfire risk, or operational requirements.

For the latest updates or assistance during your visit, contact Water Corporation on 13 13 75.

For bushfire warnings and local emergencies, visit Emergency WA.


Things to do

Visitors can enjoy a range of facilities and activities, including:

  • Picnic areas

  • Free gas barbecues

  • Playground

  • Toilets

  • Parking

  • Walking trails and scenic lookouts

A large picnic area with an adjoining playground is located near the dam, making it ideal for families.

A restaurant is also located near the main car park for those who prefer an indoor dining option.


Walking and nature experiences

Take a walk around the dam wall and surrounding trails to enjoy forest views and wildlife spotting. Birdlife commonly seen in the area includes kookaburras, black cockatoos, parrots, magpies and wrens.

Nearby Serpentine Falls is a popular stop for a picnic, particularly during wildflower season from July to November.


Safety and access rules

To help protect visitors and the drinking water supply, the following activities are not permitted:

  • Dogs

  • Swimming

  • Canoeing or kayaking

  • Fishing or marroning

  • Camping

  • Lighting fires

  • Off-road driving

  • Drones

Please also:

  • Stay on permitted paths, roads and recreation areas

  • Do not climb fences, walls or infrastructure

  • Keep access gates and roadways clear

  • Do not operate taps, valves or controls

These rules help keep everyone safe and protect water quality.


Location and directions

Getting to Serpentine Main Dam

From Perth:

  1. Take Kwinana Freeway, Tonkin Highway or Albany Highway to Armadale

  2. Follow South Western Highway for approximately 18km to Jarrahdale Road

  3. Turn left and continue for 5km

  4. Turn right onto Kingsbury Drive and follow signs to Serpentine Main Dam

Getting to Serpentine Falls

  • Continue approximately 7km past Jarrahdale along South Western Highway

  • Follow signs along Falls Road