Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Bents Basin State Conservation Area is a NSW conservation area near Wallacia, about 56 km south-west of Sydney's CBD, centred on a deep waterhole in a Nepean River gorge. Its most notable feature is the basin itself, backed by a forested escarpment and used for swimming, canoeing and fishing.
Best for
About Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Swimming, Canoeing and Fishing at Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Bents Basin State Conservation Area has a deep waterhole that forms part of a gorge on the Nepean River. The basin is used for swimming, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. Lifeguards patrol the basin during the Christmas school holidays only, and swimmers swim at their own risk because the river bed may have sudden deep potholes and strong currents may be present. After heavy rain, the basin may close to all water activities until conditions return to normal.
Picnics, Barbecues and Camping at Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Bents Basin State Conservation Area has picnic tables at three locations: the campground, the Bents Basin Road picnic area and the Durawi picnic area. Barbecues are available at the campground and at Durawi, and the campground offers gas, electric and wood barbecues plus fire rings. The campground has caravan, camper trailer and campervan sites and 100 tent sites. The park is the only picnic area along the Nepean River.
Facilities at Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Visitor tips for Bents Basin State Conservation Area
- ✓Bring your own firewood for the campground fire rings.
- ✓Mobile reception is limited, so make sure you have reception before you need to call Triple Zero (000).
- ✓Plan for a smoke-free visit, as the whole park is non-smoking.
Getting to Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Drive from Wallacia along Mulgoa Road, turn right onto Greendale Road, then right onto Wolstenholme Avenue, the only access road to the campground; the north entry via Silverdale Road and Bents Basin Road does not reach it. Parking is at the campground, the Bents Basin Road picnic area and the Durawi picnic area. Roads are sealed and suitable for 2WD vehicles. A fee of $8 per vehicle per day applies, payable at on-park machines (coins and credit cards) or through the Park'nPay app.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Wallacia
- 📍Nepean River
- 📍Wallacia
- 📍Silverdale
- 📍Camden
- 📍Penrith
Frequently asked questions about Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Can I take my dog to Bents Basin State Conservation Area?
No, pets and domestic animals are not permitted; only certified assistance animals are allowed.
What are the opening hours for Bents Basin State Conservation Area?
The park opens at 8am and closes at 6pm from May to August and at 8pm from September to April. It may close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
What walking tracks are there at Bents Basin State Conservation Area?
Walking trails run through the park's bushland, and Caley's Lookout Track climbs to Little Mountain, a scenic lookout 160 metres (525 feet) in elevation.
Are there toilets and showers at Bents Basin State Conservation Area?
Flush toilets are at the campground and both picnic areas, and showers are at the campground.
How much does it cost to visit Bents Basin State Conservation Area?
Entry costs $8 per vehicle per day.