Upper Nepean Dams – Cataract, Cordeaux, Avon, Nepean

Cataract, Cordeaux, Avon and Nepean Dams are all located south of Sydney. The facilities at these grounds include:

  • Picnic shelters
  • Electric barbecues
  • Toilets/disabled toilets
  • Drinking water
  • Playground
  • Viewing areas

Opening hours

  • 10am to 5pm
  • 10am to 7pm (on weekends and public holidays during daylight saving)
  • The dams are open every day of the year
  • Please note: There is no entry to any of the dams 15 minutes prior to closing time. Access to some SCA areas may be restricted from time-to-time due to construction or operational activity, or for environmental reasons

NOTE: Avon Dam is currently closed to the public. Avon Dam was closed in October 2005 for construction works as part of the NSW Government's Deep Water Recovery Project. While work at Avon Dam is complete, the SCA is currently reviewing its policies on recreational access to SCA lands, including the management of its dams and picnic areas. The SCA will ensure that the results of this review are communicated in the event of any change to recreational access at its sites.

How to get there

Cataract Dam

Cataract Dam is located about 84 kilometres drive south-west of Sydney, off the Appin-Bulli Road. From Sydney take the Hume Highway [F5] to the Campbelltown exit and follow the Appin Road south. At Appin, take the Bulli-Wollongong Road, and turn right to Cataract Dam where signposted.

Cordeaux Dam

Cordeaux Dam is located about 94 kilometres drive from Sydney. From Sydney take the Hume Highway [F5] towards Canberra. Past Campbelltown, take the Wollongong/Picton turnoff. The Cordeaux Dam entrance is about 10 minutes on the right, and is signposted.

Avon and Nepean Dams

Avon and Nepean Dams are situated approximately 100 kilometres drive from Sydney. Follow the Hume Highway [F5] south from Sydney and take the Bargo exit to Avon and Nepean dams.

Further information