In Canberra there is a huge artificial lake Burley Griffin. Its construction was completed in 1964 after a dam was built on the river Molongo river that flowed between the town centre and the Parliamentary triangle (the government buildings). The length of the lake is 11 km, the widest part stretches for 1, 2 km, Average depth of 4 meters and a maximum of 18, close to the dam scrivner-Dame. The dam itself was built to prevent flooding that occurs here every 5 thousand years.

The lake is named after Walter Burley Griffin, American architect, designed the project of building of Canberra in the early 20th century. It really is located in the geographical center of the city, and is its chief ornament. On its banks built the national gallery, national Museum, State Library, Australian national University and the Supreme Court, and the Parliament building is within five minutes walk. The lake is surrounded by parks and gardens – favorite places of rest of the townspeople, especially during the hot months. Despite the fact that swimming in the lake is not accepted, it is used for many sports and for fishing.

The Park area around the lake occupies an area of 3139 sq. km. Some parks specifically designed as recreational areas, such as Commonwealth Park, Weston Park, kings Park and Grevillea Park and Lennox gardens gardens and the Area of the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Park, located on the Northern shore of the lake, is one of the most popular among residents of Canberra. In it is held annually the flower festival Floriade visited by about 300 thousand people. It is the largest in Australia, the festival of colors. The Weston Park on the Western shore of the lake is famous for its forests with coniferous trees.

Around the lake there is a Bicycle track, which on weekends is filled lovers of Cycling and rollerblading, Jogging and Hiking. On the shores of the lake are often fireworks, New Year, and since 1988 is held fireworks show "Skypier". In summer the lake is used for holding multiple triathlons and aquathlon.

In 1970, the lake was opened to the James cook memorial, built in honor of the 200th anniversary of the first voyage of captain along the East coast of Australia. At the solemn opening of the Memorial was attended by Queen Elizabeth II. The memorial consists of a fountain in the center of the lake Burley Griffin and the layout of the globe at Regatta point. The fountain is powered by two pumps, emission-up to 250 litres of water per second to a height of 147 meters. In some cases, the fountain is illuminated by illumination.