Gentlemans Halt bushcare camp
Marramarra National Park
Overview
This volunteer activity in Marramarra National Park mixes bushcare with a weekend away. We’ll pitch our tents at remote Gentlemans Halt campground by the Hawkesbury, and enjoy a mix of work and walks.
- Work
- Bush regeneration, weed and pest management
- Accessibility
- No wheelchair access
- Grade
- Medium. Suitable for adults and teens 12 years and over. Medium level of fitness required.
Help NPWS reduce the amount of weeds that threaten sensitive environments in Marramarra National Park. This annual bush regeneration weekend is open to both experienced bushcare volunteers and people new to this work.
You’ll be busy in coastal saltmarsh, swamp oak floodplain forest and the mangrove and estuarine communities of the Hawkesbury River. You’ll do bush regeneration and help us clean up rubbish in the mangroves. You’ll also enjoy a guided tour of the saltmarsh and estuarine areas and a walk with the birds.
Bushcare volunteers have contributed to the environmental health of this beautiful park for over 10 years. It’s an opportunity to help our environment while increasing your wellbeing. You’ll meet like-minded people and receive on-site training in bush regeneration.
Nothing beats the deep relaxation you’ll feel by the campfire at the end of a good day’s work in the fresh air. This is a great chance to try something a little different in an amazing location.
It's a good idea to bring a day pack, insect repellent and torch.
Local alerts
For the latest updates on fires, closures and other alerts in this area, see https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/volunteer-activities/gentlemans-halt-bushcare-camp/local-alerts
Park info
- in Marramarra National Park in the Sydney and surrounds region
Marramarra National Park is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
Visitor info
All the practical information you need to know about Gentlemans Halt bushcare camp.
Getting there and parking
Get driving directions
Details provided on booking. NPWS will provide transport to the site by boat.
Road quality
- Sealed roads
Vehicle access
- 2WD vehicles
Weather restrictions
- All weather
Parking
Free parking.
Facilities
Remote bush camp with minimal facilities next to the Hawkesbury River.
Toilets
- Non-flush toilets
Picnic tables
Barbecue facilities
- Fire rings (bring your own firewood)
Maps and downloads
Accessibility
Disability access level - no wheelchair access
Not wheelchair-accessible.
Learn more
Gentlemans Halt bushcare camp is in Marramarra National Park. Here are just some of the reasons why this park is special:
Darug country
Marramarra is part of the traditional lands of the Darug Aboriginal people. Their use and respect of the land can be found in isolated corners of the park. The surviving Aboriginal sites, which provide the only indications of traditional life in the area, are of special importance to local Aboriginal communities. Cave art, rock engravings, grinding grooves, middens, scarred trees, and other occupational deposits and stone arrangements are all part of Marramarra.
Exploring the land
In the early days of the new colony, Hawkesbury River was a major communication route and supported an active river-based community. European exploration began as early as 1789 when Governor Arthur Phillip took his second trip up Hawkesbury River and camped at Gentlemans Halt. By 1884, there was a small community at Gentlemans Halt and a provisional school had been established; you can still see the foundations of a road and a wharf from this era. Other reminders of European historic heritage include remains of orange orchards along Marramarra Creek and the foundations of a hut, stone walls and a well at Big Bay.
Is it a bird?
Marramarra is home to a great diversity of animals and birds, making it a great place for wildlife spotting and bird watching. You're likely to spot a white-breasted sea eagle, swamp wallaby, possum or kingfisher in your travels. If you're lucky, you might come across some of the more uncommon animals found here such as rails, gang-gang and glossy black cockatoos, and red-crowned toadlets.
- Canoelands Ridge walking track Canoelands Ridge walking track is a beautiful day walk near Hornsby and Sydney. See scenic Hawkesbury River views and native wildflowers along the way on this long hike.
- Marramarra Ridge to Smugglers Ridge walking track Discover the beauty of Marramarra, near Hornsby, on this day walk. Enjoy scenic views, historic heritage, colourful wildflowers and picnicking along the way.
Plentiful lands
The sandstone ridges and deep gullies of Marramarra support a wide range of environments. Experience salt marsh and mangrove forests on the shores of Hawkesbury River, to tall open forest and ridge-top woodlands. In spring, the bush turns into a brilliant display of colour as the wildflowers burst in action. Discover the unique plant life and help preserve it – why not participate in the bush regeneration volunteer programs in the park?
- Canoelands Ridge walking track Canoelands Ridge walking track is a beautiful day walk near Hornsby and Sydney. See scenic Hawkesbury River views and native wildflowers along the way on this long hike.
- Marramarra adventurous journeys with YouthAdvance Fuel your sense of adventure on an exciting trip with YouthAdvance. You’ll learn navigation, teamwork and campcraft in beautiful Marramarra National Park, near Sydney.
- Marramarra Ridge to Smugglers Ridge walking track Discover the beauty of Marramarra, near Hornsby, on this day walk. Enjoy scenic views, historic heritage, colourful wildflowers and picnicking along the way.