Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Overview
Visit Bents Basin State Conservation Area near Penrith and Camden for a school excursion or to go fishing, camping, swimming or picnicking.
Read more about Bents Basin State Conservation Area
Bents Basin, a deep waterhole that forms part of a gorge on the Nepean River between Camden and Penrith, is a perfect place for swimming, canoeing and fishing. If you’d like to keep your feet on dry land, relaxing by the basin is pleasant as well; it’s backed by a forested escarpment which rises dramatically from the water’s edge. After a tasty picnic or barbecue lunch, take the walk up to Caleys lookout for views of the area – be sure to keep your eyes peeled for native animals and birds long the way.
Bents Basin State Conservation Area is a great place to visit on a daytrip and if you’d like to stay longer, bring your tent or caravan along to set up camp under the stars. If you’re interested in finding out more about the park’s landscape, plants and animals, be sure to arrange a guided tour with a ranger.
Highlights in this park
Subscribe to Naturescapes
Subscribe to our Naturescapes e-newsletter which is packed with the latest information, experiences and events in NSW national parks. Your next park adventure starts here.

General enquiries
- National Parks Contact Centre
- 7am to 7pm daily
- 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles
- parks.info@environment.nsw.gov.au
- 02 9585 6831
Contact
- in the Sydney and surrounds region
Bents Basin State Conservation Area opens at 8am and closes at 5pm (8pm during daylight savings). The park may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.
-
Park entry fees:
$8 per vehicle per day. The park has pay and display machines that accept both coin and card.
Buy annual pass -
-
Scheyville office
02 4572 3100
Contact hours: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm. Closed public holidays. - 71 Memorial Drive, Scheyville 2756
-
Email: npws.cumberland@environment.nsw.gov.au
-
Scheyville office