Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve, Protected area at Sterkfontein Dam, Free State, South Africa

Sterkfontein Dam Nature Reserve is a protected area surrounding a large reservoir in Free State province. The landscape alternates between wooded hillsides, open grasslands, and water surfaces that provide habitat for various animal species.

The dam was completed in 1977 and ranks among South Africa's largest reservoirs. The project formed part of a broader water management plan connecting the Tugela and Vaal river systems.

The reserve's plant life includes yellowwood, wild peach, koko tree and silky bark, along with highveld protea and silver sugarbush. Grasses and bushes such as wild myrtle, ouhout and bush guarri grow among them, and tree ferns also occur here. Visitors walking the trails pass these species in the wooded and open sections.

Visitors can stay in basic chalets or at camping sites along the lake shore. It is wise to bring groceries and water from outside, as on-site supplies are limited.

The reserve covers 18,000 hectares southwest of Harrismith, close to the Drakensberg mountain reserve. Its mix of wooded slopes and grassland shelters oribi, mountain reedbuck and grey rhebuck, while the trees include yellowwood, wild peach, koko tree and silky bark.