Did you know that Bents Basin State Conservation Area was once called Dovedale? That’s what botanist George Caley named it in 1804. He wasn’t the first to see it though. Long before Europeans arrived Aboriginal Australians used this special place. They called it Gulger meaning whirlpool or spinning. Bents Basin was a significant meeting and trading place for different Aboriginal groups. It held deep spiritual and cultural importance.
Today Bents Basin State Conservation Area is a popular spot near Wallacia. It’s a protected nature reserve and state park. The main feature is a stunning lake-like basin. This basin formed where the Nepean River flows from a sandstone gorge. It’s a beautiful swimming hole. But be warned. The Basin has powerful undercurrents. These undercurrents have caused several tragic drownings. So please swim carefully.
The Army’s 17th Construction Squadron significantly enlarged the basin. They built a large earth fill dam in 1987-88. Before that the basin was much smaller. It was a natural erosion basin. The basin is now over 22 metres deep. It’s 120 metres across. The water travels a long way. It flows 150 kilometres northeast to the Central Coast before reaching the ocean.
Beyond the water there’s a lot to explore. Bents Basin State Conservation Area boasts a large woodland area. It’s home to a variety of native wildlife. You might spot a sooty owl or a glossy black cockatoo. There are also many plant species. Some are quite rare including Hibbertia hermanniifolia and Eucalyptus benthamii. The park offers many activities. You can swim kayak bushwalk camp barbecue picnic and fish. There are also walking trails. Caley’s Lookout Track leads to Little Mountain. This offers breathtaking views.
The park has a fascinating history. There was once a prominent inn. It was built in the 1860s. This inn is listed on the NSW State Heritage Inventory. It showcased western Sydney’s history early road networks and the rise and fall of rural communities. Sadly it was destroyed in the 1950s. A pepper tree now marks its location. Remember to respect this significant area. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Bents Basin State Conservation Area. But always be aware of the dangers of the water.