Scrivener Dam lookout (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Scrivener Dam lookout?
What makes it 47% Baby-Friendly: You can roll a stroller from the car to the view in minutes, but absence of toilets, change tables, shade and feeding areas makes visits with an infant short and inconvenient.
Positives:
- Easy parking and access: Free car park sits right at the lookout with no steps between car and platform.
- Stroller-friendly surfaces: Flat, sealed roads and paths make it simple to push a stroller or use a baby carrier.
- Free entry, open 24 hours: No admission fee or opening-hour restrictions let you visit when it suits your schedule.
Challenges:
- No toilets or change facilities: There are no restrooms or baby-change tables at the lookout or picnic area.
- Limited shade: There is little shelter at the dam crest; bring sun or rain protection.
What is Scrivener Dam lookout?
- An observation platform integrated into the crest of Scrivener Dam overlooking Lake Burley Griffin and the Brindabella Ranges
- A structural vantage point featuring the dam’s concrete spillway gates, fish-belly flaps and interpretive signage
- A lakeside facility situated on Lady Denman Drive with adjacent free car parking
What is so special about Scrivener Dam lookout for with baby?
- Free, drive-up parking right at the lookout
- Short, flat walk across the dam ideal for strollers
- Perfect quick photo backdrop with sweeping water views
- Open 24 hours with no entry fee
- Bring your own essentials due to lack of facilities
Note: Scrivener Dam lookout is 47% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Canberra for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time to park, enjoy the lookout, take a short walk across the dam and capture family photos without rushing.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Scrivener Dam lookout
Scenic drive and lookout stop:
Drive onto Lady Denman Drive and park at the free car park beside the dam wall.
Tip: Unload the baby from the car seat or carrier right at the lookout platform for minimal walking.
Stroller-friendly dam crest walk:
Walk the fully paved 200 m dam crest path one way.
Tip: Use a sturdy stroller or baby carrier and avoid peak sun hours as there is no shade.
Quick family photo:
Use the concrete dam wall and sweeping water views as a backdrop.
Tip: Plan a five-minute stop here when the light is soft—early morning or late afternoon works best.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scrivener Dam lookout
- Plan off-site bathroom stops: Use facilities in Yarralumla or nearby cafes before arrival to avoid discomfort.
- Carry a portable sunshade: A small pop-up shade or umbrella can keep your baby comfortable during the walk.
- Use a baby carrier: A carrier keeps your hands free and is easier than pushing a stroller over any uneven spots.
Reviews of Scrivener Dam lookout
Praveen Kumar Boddeti
Nice location to park cars and go for a short walk. No toilets found. Just for sightseeing only.
Rohit Revo
Very close to city and close to the zoo. The water coming out from the dam was very low volume. It is scenic though and very good for walks and cycling. Not very crowded and you can find solace here.
Kamran Nazeer
Great place. Enjoy the gushing water and stroll around the scenic gardens around. The whole area is very nice. Walk along the pedestrian pathway on the bridge. Look over the dam into the creek. And if u look far out appx 1 o clock 500m..u may even see a giraffe as the zoo is next door. Great place for a picnic too.
Lindsey Williams
Worth a stop for 15-20 mins if the weather's dry, to take in the scenery and see how the Scrivener Dam works. Close to the Zoo and the Arboretum so doing a trip to either of those from the City, will bring you here.
mark m
Handy lookout spot at the Spillway. Parking available and something to do and see close to Govt House Lookout and Arboretum. Water flowing the day we went, lots of recent rain in Canberra
When is the best time to visit Scrivener Dam lookout (Canberra, Australia)?
Summer can get hot and windy; bring sun protection, water and hats. In cooler months layer clothing. After heavy rain or gate tests visit late afternoon for a dramatic spillway display.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Parking | AUD 0 |
| Picnic & BBQ use | AUD 0 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 0 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Scrivener Dam lookout
Address: Lady Denman Dr, Australian Capital Territory 2611, Australia
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About Scrivener Dam lookout
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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