Bathurst – water temperature and nearby swimming conditions
This page covers water temperature conditions in and around Bathurst in New South Wales. You can check current water temperatures, review recent trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s values with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby swimming locations, and local weather conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Bathurst today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Bathurst: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Bathurst have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Bathurst will be 11.1°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 14.5°C | 10.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 14.6°C | 10.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 15.1°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 1 | 15.2°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 2 | 14.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 3 | 14.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 4 | 14.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 5 | 14.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| May 6 | 13.1°C | 10.8°C | 13.1°C |
| May 7 | 10.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 8 | 10.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 9 | 10.8°C | 12.2°C | |
| May 10 | 10.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 11 | 10.8°C | 11.7°C | |
| May 12 | 10.8°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 13 | 10.8°C | 11.1°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 18°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| February | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| March | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| April | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| July | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| August | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| November | 12°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| December | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Bathurst sits on the Central Tablelands, and the cooler inland climate has a clear effect on water temperatures in local rivers, creeks, and lakes. In summer, slower sections of the Macquarie River and nearby lakes typically warm to around 18–22°C, which feels refreshing rather than warm, even during heatwaves. Spring and autumn usually sit between 14–18°C, while winter water temperatures often drop to about 8–12°C, making the water quite cold. Cool nights and shaded banks help keep temperatures down across much of the year.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Bathurst is generally allowed in designated lakes and managed recreational areas, but it is very seasonal. Summer is the main time people head into the water, choosing calm, accessible spots where conditions are monitored and water quality is more reliable. Natural river and creek sections are less popular for swimming due to cooler temperatures, variable depth, and changing conditions after rain. Heavy rainfall can quickly lower water temperatures and reduce clarity, so swimming is usually avoided then. Overall, Bathurst offers limited inland swimming opportunities, best suited to short, refreshing summer dips rather than long swims, reflecting the region’s cooler tablelands climate.