Atkinsons
Lagoon was a shallow natural lake prior to the construction
of the Atkinsons Dam wall in 1970.
It has a surface area of 550 ha and holds some 30 500 ML of
water for irrigation purposes.
Fishing
Where once there were only Spangled Perch, Tandans & Eels
on offer for anglers; however the local fish stocking group
SWFSA
have made this location into a hotspot for freshwater sportfishing
in southern Queensland by stocking large numbers of Saratoga
in a bid to create a breeding population.
While not confirmed if these fish are breeding as yet, Atkinsons
Dam has suffered from extremely low water for some years from
a prolonged drought.
This not only has put the breeding of the saratoga under threat,
but the very survival of the many fish released into this
location is in doubt.
Boating
There are no boating restrictions here but only 15 powerboats
are allowed on the water at any time. There is a concrete
boat ramp at the main recreation area near dam wall and another
at the Lakeside Caravan Park (requires key for boom gates).
Facilities
There
are excelent facilities available at the Atkinson Dam Waterfront
Caravan Park. Permanent & Overnight vans, cabins, powered
and bush camping sites and a bush kitchen are available. Your
hosts Evelyn & Noel Tumney will make you feel at home.
They have their own boatramp that is commonly the only usable
ramp during lower water levels. Pets are welcomed & the
kiosk has most of your every day needs. Fuel will soon be
available on site. Day visitors welcome. For enquiries go
to the Accommodation Page
The
Lake House. Kirkleagh Holiday Park. Lake Somerset Holiday Park.
Lake Somerset Tourist Park. Neurum Creek Bush Retreat. http://www.lakesomerset.com.au