Buffelspoort Dam - North West
The Buffelspoort Dam is situated in the scenic Buffelspoort valley within the Magaliesberg Biosphere. Just 35km from Rustenburg, the dam is easily accessible from Johannesburg and Pretoria with the N4 highway a short distance away. © Buffelspoort DamBuffelspoort Dam - North West
Buffelspoort Dam lies in a beautiful valley beneath the Magaliesberg, offering a peaceful escape for anglers, campers and anyone keen to spend time beside the water. About 30 km from Rustenburg, the dam is surrounded by rugged hills and bushveld scenery, making the journey here almost as enjoyable as the destination itself.
The dam was completed in 1937 as part of the Sterkstroom Government Water Scheme, primarily to provide irrigation water for agriculture downstream. Today, it has become an established recreational destination in the Eastern Region of North West, with fishing among its biggest attractions. Carp are particularly prized, and the dam has produced exceptionally large specimens, while barbel and blue kurper are also caught. Canoeing, boating, picnicking and camping are other popular pursuits, although boating regulations apply and jet skis are not permitted.
The name Buffelspoort is Afrikaans for ‘buffalo pass’ or ‘buffalo gorge’, reflecting the area's landscape and its association with the old route through the mountain valley. History is also close at hand: the surrounding Magaliesberg was an important setting during the Anglo-Boer War, including the Battle of Buffelspoort in 1900.
Camping at Buffelspoort Dam offers a relaxed bushveld escape with the water and Magaliesberg scenery providing a striking backdrop. The camping area caters for both overnight guests and day visitors, with non-electrified sites available for those who prefer a more rustic experience. Facilities include ablutions, braai areas and access to the dam, making it a convenient base for families, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors should bring their own camping equipment and supplies, while the peaceful setting makes early mornings and evenings particularly enjoyable.
Fishing is one of Buffelspoort Dam’s main attractions, with anglers drawn by its reputation for producing good-sized carp. Barbel and blue kurper are also among the species found in the dam, and fishing from the bank is popular, particularly along the accessible western shoreline. The dam has specific fishing rules and permits or entrance fees may apply, so anglers should check the current regulations before setting up. For those who enjoy the quiet rhythm of a day beside the water, the combination of fishing, mountain scenery and relaxed camping gives Buffelspoort Dam much of its appeal.
Current tariffs (2026):
R60 per vehicle, once off
R60 per adult, per day
R25 per child under 12, per day
Boating and camping fees apply - see the website below.
For more information:
Contact: Buffelspoort Dam - Camping and Casual Boating
Tel: +27 74 344 3496
Email: admin@buffelspoortdam.org.za.
Website: https://buffelspoortdam.co.za/index
Gate hours: 06:00 - 18:00 (summer) 07:00 - 17:00 (winter)
Please note that when visiting the dam certain rules apply:
No tiller arm boats or jet skis are allowed.
Boaters are required to produce their skippers licence and COP (Certificate of Proficiency) upon entering the public area.
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- Buffelspoort (0.62km)
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- Marikana (11.96km)
- Maanhaarrand (12.74km)
- Hekpoort (15.86km)
- Modderspruit (18.20km)
- Kroondal (19.13km)
- Magaliesburg (21.21km)
- Olifantsnek (24.29km)
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- Aasvoelkrans (29.03km)
- Rustenburg (29.10km)
- Magalies Golf Estate (29.27km)
