Cattai National Park

Cattai National Park is located in New South Wales, Australia, approximately 60 km northwest of Sydney. Situated along the Hawkesbury River, the park offers a peaceful natural retreat close to the city, with nearby towns including Windsor and Pitt Town. The park has significant historical value, with a portion of the land originally part of a grant given to First Fleet Assistant Surgeon Thomas Arndell in 1799. Cattai National Park was officially established in 1983, preserving both the natural landscape and its colonial history, including remnants of early European farming settlements. Parking facilities are well-organized within the park, with several designated parking areas near popular picnic spots, walking trails, and the campground. There are no parking fees, but entry fees apply for vehicles, which can be paid at the park entrance. Facilities include toilets, picnic tables, and barbecues, making it a great spot for day trips. Cattai National Park is home to a variety of native wildlife. Visitors may spot eastern grey kangaroos, swamp wallabies, and echidnas. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 150 bird species recorded, including kookaburras, white-bellied sea eagles, and rainbow lorikeets. At night, microbats are commonly seen fluttering above the river. The park’s flora includes river flats dominated by forests of Sydney blue gum and river oak. In the surrounding bushland, you’ll find native wildflowers, scribbly gums, and paperbark trees. These diverse ecosystems support a range of wildlife and provide a scenic backdrop for nature walks. Key landmarks include the historic Cattai Homestead and the Hawkesbury River, which offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Public transport is not available directly to the park, so driving is the primary means of access, with easy routes from Sydney via Windsor Road. Photo Credit: John Yurasek and Cameron Wade