This reserve holds a large dam in the foothills of the Waterberg between Mookgophong and Mokopane. There is a variety of habitats in the reserve with wooded hills, savannah bushveld and open plains and broadleaved woodland making up the majority of the habitat other than the dam and it well-vegetated banks. The reserve has a good complement of raptors with Martial Eagle, African Hawk Eagle and African Fish eagle all breeding here. This is one of the few places in the country where Garganey has been recorded, and Osprey are regularly seen here in summer. Coqui and Shelley’s Francolin are also often seen and heard and Freckled Nightjar Mocking Chat and are found in the hills. More than 12 species of shrike occur here as well as Yellow-throated Petronia and Orangebreasted Waxbill.
Doorndraai dam has been a favourite for fishermen in the area for years and birders are only now starting to discover this beautiful reserve. Walking is allowed and there is lots of general game to be seen as well. To get there, take the Sterkrivier road off the R101 between Mookgophong and Mokopane and follow the signs. There is a camp site in the reserve
