Queensland · Attraction
Lake Eacham
Volcanic crater swimming lake
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Lake Eacham is a deep, crystal-clear volcanic crater lake set within Crater Lakes National Park, part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Surrounded by ancient rainforest and fed entirely by rainfall, the lake is one of the best swimming spots on the Atherton Tablelands, calm, clean, and remarkably beautiful, with a three-kilometre walking track looping the entire shoreline.
The lake was formed thousands of years ago by a maar eruption, where rising magma met groundwater and caused a massive explosion that left behind a circular basin. Today the crater is filled with still, dark water reaching depths of more than 65 metres. The surrounding rainforest is home to Boyd's forest dragons, various species of kingfisher, and the rare Lumholtz's tree kangaroo.
Facilities at the main day-use area include shaded picnic tables, free electric barbecues, toilets, and a grassed area suitable for families. The circuit walking track around the lake is flat, well-maintained, and takes roughly 45 minutes at an easy pace. Swimming is popular year-round, and the calm water also suits kayaking.
Entry to the national park is free. Lake Eacham is about 25 kilometres east of Atherton and pairs naturally with a visit to nearby Lake Barrine, the second crater lake in the park, which has a tearoom, larger trees, and a popular guided boat cruise.
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