Welcome to Chelmsford

Chelmsford Nature Reserve surrounds the Ntshingwayo Dam, which lies on the iNgagane River and is the third largest dam in KwaZulu-Natal. The surrounding grasslands and acacia veld are the playground of several large game, including wildebeest, hartebeest, springbok, and blesbok. The Reserve makes a wonderful day’s outing for those taking a break from the Battlefields route, or for those who want to enjoy the freedom of the great outdoors and the excitement of windsurfing, canoeing and jet-skiing. Ntshingwayo Dam is a renowned fishing destination, with carp, barbel and scaly being the most popular fish caught.

• Ntshingwayo Dam is a renowned fishing destination, with carp, barbell and scaly being the most popular fish caught.

• There is also a 1000 ha game park, which is well stocked with a range of Highveld game. Bird and game- viewing are particularly rewarding. Visitors may game from their own vehicles or requested a guided game drive by prior arrangement. Sailing, power boating, water-skiing and swimming are all popular pastimes on the 3 400 ha dam.

• Visitors are free to walk or cycle anywhere within the game park as there are no dangerous animals.

• A shop with bait, liquor, wood and other basic provisions is open daily.

• Ample facilities for day visitors are available, including playgrounds and boat launching ramps.

• Medical assistance, police and all other amenities are available at Newcastle, about 26 km away.

• No noise is allowed in the camping and chalet areas. Limited noise at the picnic areas, no noise after 19:00.

• Certain sections of the reserve may be closed to the public for management reasons and entry to these parts therefore is forbidden.

• Credit cards are accepted.

• Fires are strictly prohibited other than in designated braai areas.

• It is an offence to kill, injure, capture or disturb any animal or bird, or cut, damage, uproot, destroy or remove any wood, flower or plant.

• No pets are allowed into the reserve. Visitors are not permitted to introduce or release any animal into the reserve.

• Permits to the campsites are required by all visitors.

• All boats must be registered with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. Life jackets must be carried and preferably worn at all times when on the water.

• A copy of the boating rules is available at the reception office. Power-boat skippers are required to be in possession of a valid skipper’s licence.

• No quad bikes/motorbikes allowed.

• Entrance gates to the reserve open and close at the following times: 06:00 - 19:00.

• Medical assistance, police and all other amenities are available at Newcastle, about 26 km away.