Bickley Reservoir was originally constructed in 1920-21 with the purpose of supplementing Perth’s water supply. In 1936, the Reservoir was taken out of service and the water used for irrigation until 1944. Following, Bickley Reservoir and the surrounding catchment area was set aside for recreational purposes. The Bickley Outdoor Recreation Camp (located adjacent to the reservoir), was established in 1948 and is managed by the Ministry for Sport and Recreation. Activities associated with the camp include canoeing, swimming, camping and orienteering (for more information click here). Recreational activities in the catchment include picnicking, bushwalking, mountain bike riding, horse riding and llama walking. Facilities include barbecues, toilets, change rooms and tap water. There is plenty of shade available and the wildflowers are on show in the spring months from September through to November.

The Mason and Bird Heritage Trail is located near the Bickley Reservoir which follows part of the timber tramway which was used to moved timber from the former mill to the jetty at Canning River. Also in the area is the 27 kilometre Kattamordo Heritage Trail which starts at Mundaring Weir and makes its way to the Bickley Reservoir following old railway tracks. In recent years, the Bickley Reservoir has again been made part of Perth’s water supply. The Bickley Reservoir is located at the end of Hardinge Road in Orange Grove, next to Hardinge Park.