VAALKOP DAM NATURE RESERVE
The Vaalkop Dam
Is situated 54km north of Brits, near Beestekraal and north-east of Rustenburg, in typical broken bushveld country. It is renowned as both an anglers and birdwatching destination..
Location
To reach Vaalkop take the R511 road north from Brits for 35 km to a sign indicating Beestekraal. Turn left and continue 4km to a sign indicating Vaalkop Dam to the right. Travel a further 11km to the entrance to the Vaalkop Dam and Magalies Water Project complex on the left and continue to the reserve entrance gates and dam wall.
Climate
Generally mild to hot but winter can be extremely cold. The Crocodile River valley is malaria free.
Accommodation
A campsite with basic amenities for campers is provided.
Fishing
Fish species include carp and yellowfish which are plentiful, making Vaalkop a particularly attractive angling destination. Vaalkop is easy to reach from both Pretoria and Johannesburg, making this an ideal weekend camping or day excursion.
Birding
Although visitors enjoy angling opportunities at Vaalkop Dam, this 3 996 ha nature reserve is tailor-made for bird watchers. Over 340 bird species have been recorded in the reserve. An 800 ha section of the reserve has been set aside as a bird sanctuary (which is not open to the general public). Those wishing to observe the birds must book in advance.
