Cowles Dam - Springs, Johannesburg
Cowles Dam - Springs, Johannesburg
Cowles Dam is a significant water body located near Springs, Johannesburg, in the Gauteng Province of South Africa. Established in the early 20th century, the dam was initially constructed to supply water to the growing industrial town of Springs and its surrounding areas. The dam plays a crucial role in the local water management system, providing a reliable source of water for both municipal and industrial use.
The area around Cowles Dam offers a tranquil escape from the urban environment, with its serene waters and scenic surroundings providing a popular spot for outdoor recreation. The dam is a favored location for activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking. Its peaceful environment and well-maintained facilities make it an attractive destination for families and nature enthusiasts looking to enjoy a day in nature.
In addition to its recreational value, Cowles Dam also contributes to the ecological health of the region. It supports a variety of bird species and other wildlife, making it an important site for conservation efforts and environmental education. The dam's role in supporting local biodiversity and providing recreational opportunities underscores its significance to the Springs community and the broader Johannesburg East Rand area.
Although the dam is fenced off and on Sappi property, the public are allowed to use the dam for recreational purposes. With that being said, Sappi have also advised that there had been reports of robberies in the past because of the nearby Gugulethu Township. The dam lies between Sappi paper factory and the mines and it is highly likely that pollution from the surrounding industries is making its way into the dam.
The dam itself is surrounded by reeds which go far into the dam, meaning very soft sandy soil underfoot. The dam is very shallow and even between 50m and 100m it is still possible to touch the bottom. At its deepest the dam is probably not more than 2m to 3m deep. And due to the pollution, the stench when you kick up the muck is unbearable. The dam seems to be stocked with a lot of barbel and carp. Reported recent catches include 200g bass, 3kg+ carp and 3.6kg+ barbell.
Accommodation Near Cowles Dam - Springs, Johannesburg
Angelica Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Boksburg
21.1km from Cowles Dam - Springs, JohannesburgAngelica Guesthouse provides accommodation on a bed and breakfast and self catering basis in Boksburg on the Johannesburg East Rand. Situated in Libradene, a quiet suburb of Boksburg about 13kms from OR Tambo Airport. We're just off the N17 Freeway. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Afrique Boutique Hotel
Hotel / Boutique Hotel Accommodation in Boksburg
21.2km from Cowles Dam - Springs, JohannesburgAfrique Boutique Hotel Oliver Tambo is situated in Boksburg on the Johannesburg East Rand in Gauteng. Afrique Boutique Hotel Oliver Tambo has 24 delightfully stylish and luxurious air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms and state of the art... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Woodpecker's Inn
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Glen Marais
25km from Cowles Dam - Springs, JohannesburgWoodpecker's Inn provides upmarket bed and breakfast accommodation in Kempton Park on the Johannesburg East Rand. Located in the quiet Kempton Park suburb of Glen Marais, just 15 minutes drive from the OR Tambo International Airport. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bri-Shel Manor B&B
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Heidelberg
29km from Cowles Dam - Springs, JohannesburgSituated in Heidelberg, Bri-Shel Manor is an unique 4 star establishment offering luxurious accommodation fully equipped with free wifi, amenities, dstv, splendid linen, aircon and electric under blankets. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
3 Brothers B&B
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Edenvale
29.4km from Cowles Dam - Springs, Johannesburg3 Brothers Bed and Breakfast is located in Edenvale on the East Rand of Johannesburg in Gauteng. 3 Brothers is situated in Edenvale, a quiet, tranquil and secure residential area. It's central and close to all major routes and business parks. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
President Lodge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Edenvale
29.8km from Cowles Dam - Springs, JohannesburgPresident Lodge offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Edenvale on the Johannesburg East Rand, Gauteng. President Lodge is a jewel of a guest house, within 10 minutes' drive from OR Tambo International Airport and close to major... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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