The campsite is accessible by sealed roads.
53.8 km W of Sydney
GPS: Latitude 33° 55′ 58.872"S Longitude 150° 38′ 14.46"E
Campsite is signposted and accessed via Wolstenholme Avenue entrance only. Wolstenholme Avenue is off Greendale Road from Wallacia in the north, or Liverpool in the east.
General Information
You can park a caravan, trailer, or a tent in this campground This deep waterhole forms part of a gorge on the Nepean River between Camden and Penrith, and is a popular spot for people escaping Sydney. Enjoy water-based activities such as swimming, fishing & canoeing. There are fireplaces and accessible toilet facilities (though the Basin is not easily accessible by wheelchair). There is bushwalking through Gulguer Nature Reserve to Caley's Lookout. Car-based and caravan camping (no powered sites) is available in the camping area (bookings essential, fees apply).
Facilities for hire include Campground Shelter & Kitchen, Picnic Areas & Hall with Commercial Kitchen - further information and bookings at Bents Basin Office.
Free Hot showers are provided on site.
Free Electric BBQs are also available.
Bring your own firewood, or purchase at campground for $9.50 - 20kg hardwood. It is an offence to take firewood from the bush.
Campers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Park Hours:
9:00 am to 4:30 pm Eastern Standard Time
9:00 am to 7:00 pm Daylight Savings
Office Hours:
9:00 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday
Bookings and contact information
You can book a campsite by phoning the Campsite contactFor more information contact the NPWS Bents Basin State Conservation Area local office office on:Phone:02 4774 8662
(more contact details)
Fees
Camping fees applyAdult=$14 Per NightChildren=$7 Per Night
Car entry fees applyVehicle=$7 Per Day
Kitchen: $55 per day. Shelter: $55 per day. Children under 5 free
During School holidays NPWS is trialing a first time camping program. Where they will provide you the basic gear, and have the tent pitched ready for you when you arrive. Bents Basin First Time Camping form $176 night to $242 including Breakfast and Dinner. Children rates apply to people aged 5-15 years (children under 5 are free)
Facilities
Toilets Flush toilets available
Showers Hot showers are provided on site
Water Drinking water is provided on site
Picnic Tables Picnic tables are provided on site
Pit fire BBQs Wood fired Pit BBQ's are provided - bring your own wood
Electric of Gas BBQs Gas or electric BBQ's are provided
Rubbish Bins There are rubbish bins provided on site
Campfires Fires are generally permitted at this campsite, be aware of local fire bans.
ActivitiesSwimmingThere are places to swimNearest known Camping Stores
Bents Basin is a nice park in western Sydney. The part straddles a deep section of the Nepean River gorge. There are some nice walks in the area and the large water hole is a defining feature.
My worst camping experience ever, the camping ground is full of drunk redneck bogans. I was jumped and bashed by a bunch of wankas for no reason what so ever... Please do not visit this area, it is honestly a joke. Michael.
I have enquired with officers at NPWS. No formal report was made about the incident described by Michael. NPWS staff are aware of an occasion in February when a couple of groups camping at Bents Basin became rowdy. They did speak to individuals in the groups who declined to make any formal report or to be identified.
National Parks staff take campers’ safety seriously. They told me that at this campsite staff patrol the campground and picnic grounds during the day. At closing time the park has a final inspection by a professional security guard, who escorts all non-campers from the park to ensure the safety of those that remain within the park to camp.
It seems that most people have a great time camping here, and that Michael's experience is an unfortunate but isolated event.
I would encourage anybody who sees anything like this, to report it to a National Parks staff. Formal reports make it easier for NPWS staff to address security issues and ensure enjoyable camping for everyone
has anyone been camping here since as I want to go the June long weekend but not if there is trouble.
thanks
Hi Rachel
I spoke to people at NPWS about this issue, and I got the impression that this was an isolated incident. They take comfort or their visitors seriously. I have heard of people camping there since with no problems (it is a very popular campsite).
enjoy your camping trip.
I went out this site last weekend. it was really pleasurable time with beautiful weather as well.
enough space for the privacy, good view and kind staffs.
I love this place!
I've been coming to this campsite since i was only a baby, my dad used to bring me. I LOVE IT ! . i love just coming to spend the odd weekend. and all the people saying it is trouble and there are drunk idiots everywhere is a load of crap because only once had i seed any people walking around drunk, and it was New Years Eve. But yeah, it's a great place to be.. :D :wink:
i have been here over and over again and have never had a problem its easy to get to and great for a frenids getaway, its the best place to go see the trees away from the city there is nothing like it its a place you must see in your life time!!!!
I'll be a study abroad student next semester and my girlfriend and I were hoping to visit around New Years. I was also curious if anyone had any creative ideas for getting to the park and back if we don't have a car. We're thinking of renting a car, or taking a taxi, or even a bus if that's an option. We've never been to Australia before so does anyone have any suggestions?
We're thinking of renting a car, or taking a taxi, or even a bus if that's an option.
Hi Steve. Public transport is not easy to here, no bus or train. You could catch a taxi from Glenfield Station (about 30km ride) will cost about $60-90 depending on traffic. There are plenty of car rental places - just Google them.
Enjoy your stay
Matt :)
We're planning to go camping there with our 3 kids. Is it a clean and safe place to go with young children? How far is the closest shop/convenience store? Thanks. Caroline
How far is the closest shop/convenience store? Thanks. Caroline
Hi Caroline
It is a popular spot for family camping. There are a few natural hazards (as you might expect when camping) such as unfenced water etc. There are well maintained facilities. The nearest main shopping area is about 20min drive north to Wallacia.
Happy camping
Matt :)
Are there any bushwalking trails? If so, how long are they?
Thanks,
Dani
Hi Dani,
I spoke with a ranger, there are three walks in the area. One that loops around the 'lake' Bents Basin from the picnic area. About 20mins
Another walk about 45min from the top of the picnic area that goes to Caleys lookout. (signposted)
Another walk follows the ridge south from the picnic area (on the south eastern side of the the Nepean River).
hope you have fun
Happy camping
Matt :)
Yeh. I wouldnt mind giving this place a go for camping. Just wondering- How close can you get your veihcle to where you actually camp. Its just that my veihcle is set up with car fridges that cant be removed and it is a must to have the car close by. Thanks
Just been lookin at the fees... By the time I pay for two adults, two children and one car, I've been robbed harder than any bank could dream of rollin me for.
We don't need a powered site or commercial kitchen, can you simply camp [roughing it :-)..] without spending what you would staying in a cabin?
Quite surprised by expense or did I get the deal wrong?
Quite surprised by expense or did I get the deal wrong?
Hi Roger, 2 adults and a car would be $35. This campsite is not for everyone, esp for people who prefer to 'rough it'. Here you will find hot showers, BBQ's and a very well maintained campground. If you prefer to rough it, then there are other sites that are better set up for that.
Just thinking of camping here for the long weekend in Jan. Are the sites spread out as will be celebrating a birthday so don't want to disturb other people camping? Also what is the swimming like there - is it too cold to swim?
Are the sites spread out as will be celebrating a birthday so don't want to disturb other people camping?
Hi Clarie, what a great way to celebrate a birthday. There are a few sites away from the main area. No site is is completely isolated, so there will still be a need to respect a reasonable quiet time. There is a large shelter that can be booked (for a fee), great for a larger party. Bents Basin is a large water hole great for swimming and fishing. There are several small sandy beaches providing good access. Signs there remind you that you swim at your own risk. It is a popular swimming spot. The water is about a 5min walk from the campsite.
Hope that helps
Happy camping
Matt :)
hi i was just wondering how much notice i need to give for a basic camp ground
Hi Shelley. During school holidays (and long weekends) best to book as far in advanced as possible. But other times of the year there are plenty of spaces. The rangers are friendly, give them a call and let them know when you are thinking of going and they will give you a better idea.
Enjoy
Matt :)
planning on spending my birthday here so i just need to bring tents and my friends. can you consume alcohol and the total cost is $14 pp and $7 per car we bring in right?
so i just need to bring tents and my friends. can you consume alcohol and the total cost is $14 pp and $7 per car we bring in right?
Hi Anastacia.
Tents and friends are a good start. There are good facilities here, you will need to bring your food, firewood, cooking equipment etc. You can drink alcohol, please drink responsibly. $14pp per night and $7 per car per 24 hour period.
Have a great birthday.
Matt :)
I love this park I have been coming here most of my life and I have never had a bad experience here. It is one of the best and cleanest camping grounds I have ever been to, they have great facility's like clean water, hot showers and toilets. I have no problem bringing my children here. Its a great place that's holds great memories for me and hopefully great memories for my children to look back on one day!!
Those people residing in Sydney. Bents Basin is neat place to go to. It's a short drive from Sydney (compared to long drives to get to camping grounds).
I haven't stayed there overnight. But I did check out the place way back - a friend/colleguea of mine who is very knowledgeable about this things kinda told me about it and so I did checked it out. I only stayed there for few hours. But in all I liked it.
I know these photos area bit old but thought I'd share it anyway.
We are coming to Bents Basin with a large group in October, but my husband needs electricity to use his sleep machine at night (CPAP). Is there any solution or will I be sleeping with the kids by myself? :-)
Hi KB.
There are no powered sites, but there is an electricity supply to the campsite (to run the lights etc). It would be worth speaking with NPWS to see if they can organise something for your husband. See contact information on the Genral info tab for NPWS phone and e-mail.
Hope you have a great time
Matt :)
Hi
I noticed there is a possibility for camp fires. Will this be the case in the next few weeks (fire restrictions) as we love camp oven cooking on the fire.
Is Bent's Basin open all year round, open Xmas day??????
Hi Claire
"The park gates open at 9am all year round, and close at 7pm during daylight saving, 4.30pm all other times. Penalties apply for late exit."
This park (like any other) may be closed due to very high fire dangers or for other reasons to protect the park and visitors. These closures are rare. There are curently no closures in this park, they are advertised here http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/NationalParks/parkHome.aspx?id=N0618 if they happen.
Happy camping.
Matt :)
Hi,
Im planning on camping here in the near future. I was just wondering if we are allowed to light a campfire on the grassy areas near our pitched tents?
Theres a sign in one of the pictures that says fires only in steel fireplaces allowed. as well as a picture of one of the steel fireplaces.
Hi,
Im planning on camping here in the near future. I was just wondering if we are allowed to light a campfire on the grassy areas near our pitched tents?
Hi Vincent
As the sign suggests fires are for established fire places only. There are quiet a few scattered about the campsite.
Happy camping
Matt :)
I was just wondering exactly how safe Bents basin is. I am planning on taking my small children there later on this year but don't want to have to be listening to drunk 18 year olds or younger.
Hi James
I took my kids (2&4) there about 10 months ago. We had a good time, and no trouble (except I forgot my torch - grrr). On look Long weekends and school holidays, like many other campsites, it can get noisy. But we where there on just an average weekend and there where only a handful of other people scattered around the place.
Hope you have a good trip, where ever you plan to go.
Matt :)
I was there last weekend with my husband. We had a blast, there was a group of around 50 including 30 kids nearby but they didn't make too much noise.
There weren't any drunks.
You can check in from 9 am & checkout anytime you want.
The best thing is that you can have a campfire & being so close to the city it still feels like you're away from everything
I have hears so many stories that agree with those who say there is trouble there all the time. Teens drinking and fighting all the time. I won't be going there. I know these stories are true, and often
My first hand camping experience of this place (back in about 1995) was drunk aggressive rednecks with aggressive dogs. NPWS can say words, their actions are not consistent with those words. We had to leave with 2 small children at about midnight out of fear for our safety.
I visited the campground recently and was pleasantly surprised by the well kept grounds and the cleanliness of the facilities. Didn't experience any drunks or bad behaviour. NPWS staff were excellent. Best thing is that they now have an off peak rate for the non-daylight savings period $10Adult $5child, $7car remains the same. I would highly recommend the place for those wanting a relaxing weekend in a bush setting not far from Syd. Nearly forgot to mention, there is a kiosk that operates there now, coffee, hot chips, burgers, drinks and ice creams. They also take orders from campers for next day delivery. A lot has changed since 1995. Excellent place.
Hi I'd like to know if you need to book in and how long prior to the date would i have to book in for a night? If not, do i just rock up and pay the fees? Is there a number I could possibly contact for further inquiries?
Well, I have read through most of the comments and I am happy too say that I am looking forward to organising a well earned weekend away for myself and friends at Bents Basin, it's going to be great...thanks all for the positive feed back on your own experiences, happy camping!
I took my Camper trailer to Bents Basin this last weekend. What a great campground! rubbish bins available everywhere, fresh water taps everywhere, shady spots available and you can spread out as much as you like! We had a campfire and we had enough room near our camp for the kids to play cricket. The basin is a short walk and a great authentic bush swimming hole.
Only one downside to the weekend was one bunch of clowns played loud dush dush music till midnight on the Saturday. But you know what -you can get idiots anywhere and it's no reflection on the campsite management - they were very friendly and helpful. We'll be back ...and soon!
Hi, we are planning to go camping in the near future and will be bringing very young children with us. We are a bit concerned about some of the comments, therefore if we should run into any kind of trouble during the night is there someone we can contact to assist at the time.
many thank,
P.
Hi there,
We've seen the pictures of four metal fireplaces on stilts, are these the only campfires on the site or are there others we can pitch our tents close to and sit round? Our group consists of about 3-4 families so we're looking for a large area we can sit round with the kids and toast marshmallows! Would it even be possible for us to bring our own half drum to light a fire in?
...if we should run into any kind of trouble during the night is there someone we can contact to assist at the time...
Hi Patrick. Sorry for my slow reply.
There is (at least was - I assume still there) a security guard service that would drop in during the night. But in the unlikely event you have any trouble I would suggest calling the police, as you would in any other similar situation. I do understand that trouble as described here is rare.
Hope you have a good camping trip.
Matt :)
..fireplaces on stilts, are these the only campfires on the site or are there others we can pitch our tents close to and sit round?..
Hi again
check out the little dot in the first photo with the red and white caravan. That is a ground based metal fire place. You will need to call NPWS to ask about bringing your own fire place. They are very helpful staff there, I am sure they will be happy to help.
Matt :)
are we allowed to stay late in camp n allowed to drink alcohol...? and what about camping do we need to have our own tent or we can hire it..?
Hi Shiva
You will need to bring all your own camping equipment, non available for hire. In all these campsites it is important to respect other campers needs for quiet. Alcohol is permitted in moderation. It is not an appropriate place for a load late party.
Happy camping
Matt :)
What a great place to camp for the weekend.
We are from south of Wollongong and it took us 1 Hour & 20 minutes to get there.
The Bush kiosk is great run by a very nice couple.
The amenities are good 3 min showers (free)after you pay to camp there
There are fire places every where
The Wood is $11 a bag and burns well.
It's a nice 10-15 minute walk to the basin and is worth the walk and this is were you find the bush Kiosk.
The park rangers were helpful and informative.
All in all was a great weekend and we would recommend to go there
I have a few questions regarding the camp site. How spread out is it.. or at least the camping area it self. What I'm trying to say is that, it seems this is a popular camp site, so will it be fairly private for us? I might be going on several weekdays in the school holidays.
Which leads me to my second question, How far do you have to book in advance? And finally, Are 16 year olds allowed to camp without someone there being over 18?
If anyone could reply it would help, thanks. :)
We went camping here last long weekend with a group of friends and there was violence and noise until 2.30am. Highly not recommended for a relaxing holiday. Placed a formal complaint because we only could barely stay that one night even though we paid for two. We could not get our money back nor get it credited. Think about booking a campsite here. Such a shame because it is a nice place, just has poor management of the campsite.
NEW
SwimmingThere are places to swimNearest known Camping Stores
You can book a campsite by phoning the Campsite contactFor more information contact the NPWS Bents Basin State Conservation Area local office office on:Phone:02 4774 8662
1 km
not too much longer now :)