The Weir – A Hidden Swimming Hole in Dharawal National Park
In the heart of Dharawal National Park, The Weir is a quiet swimming hole formed where the river flows over a man-made sandstone wall. Surrounded by bushland and birdlife, it’s a relaxing place for a picnic, a cool dip or just sitting and listening to the water. For more Dharawal swimming spots, explore Minerva Pool or discover Wattamolla in Royal National Park.
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Can You Swim at The Weir?
Yes. The Weir has calm freshwater pools that are perfect for wading or a short swim. After rain the flow increases, creating a natural cascade over the stone wall. It’s family-friendly, with plenty of shallow water and flat rock ledges for relaxing.
Because it’s easier to reach than other swimming holes in the park, The Weir is popular with locals from Campbelltown and surrounding suburbs.
There are no lifeguards. Supervise kids, don’t jump or dive, and stay out of the water and off the weir wall when it’s flowing strongly after rain.
The Weir and Minerva Pool
One of the highlights of this area is that The Weir is just downstream from Minerva Pool. Minerva Pool is a sacred Dharawal women’s site where only women and children swim, so The Weir is a good option for everyone to enjoy.
That makes it a great addition to a day in Dharawal National Park: walk to Minerva Pool for its cultural and natural significance (men can enjoy it from the lookout), then stop at The Weir for a relaxed swim and picnic.
How to Get to The Weir
- Location: Dharawal National Park, near Campbelltown, NSW.
- Access: The Weir is reached via Victoria Road at Wedderburn. From the park entrance, follow the trail signs towards “The Weir”.
- Parking: Limited roadside parking near the entry gate.
Dharawal National Park is always open but may close in poor weather or high fire danger. For official park information and alerts, check the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
Tips for Visiting The Weir
- Bring food and water, as there are no facilities in the park.
- Wear sturdy shoes if you also plan to walk to Minerva Pool.
- Visit in summer or early autumn for the clearest swimming conditions.
- Respect the environment and Dharawal Country: take rubbish home and leave no trace.
Final Thoughts on The Weir
If you’re looking for swimming holes near Sydney that are peaceful, family-friendly and easy to reach, The Weir in Dharawal National Park is a perfect choice. Combined with a visit to nearby Minerva Pool, it makes a full day of exploring in one of NSW’s most underrated national parks.
For more natural swimming holes, waterfalls and ocean pools across the state, grab a copy of my guide Swim New South Wales.
The Weir Dharawal FAQs
Can you swim at The Weir in Dharawal National Park?
Yes. It has calm, shallow freshwater pools that suit wading and a short swim. There are no lifeguards, so supervise children and stay out when the water is high after rain.
Can men swim at The Weir?
Yes, The Weir is open for everyone to swim. It’s nearby Minerva Pool that is a sacred women’s site, where only women and children enter the water.
Are there toilets at The Weir?
No. There are no facilities in the park, so bring food and water and take your rubbish home.
Is Dharawal National Park open?
The park is always open but may close in poor weather or high fire danger. Check NPWS alerts before you go.
