Lake Parramatta

Lake Parramatta Reserve is a 60 hectare bush and parkland reserve located within two kilometres of the Parramatta CBD.

The lake was Parramatta's water supply until 1909, and the original function of the reserve was to protect its water quality.

The reserve is now recognised as one of the most significant and beautiful bushland remnants in Western Sydney. Surveys undertaken in 1990 and 2001 identified 67 species of native birds, 12 species of reptile, 5 frog species and 13 native species of mammal, plus several exotic species of birds and mammals, as well as wild flowers, living in the reserve.

Evidence still remains of the regular usage and occupation by the Aboriginal Burramattagal clan within Lake Parramatta Reserve and Hunts Creek. It exists in the form of shelter caves, hand-stencils, stone flaking, tree scars and midden deposits. The local Aboriginal Community and Parramatta City Council have in recent years, established a Bushfoods Garden and Walk to show these remarkable items to visitors. Brochures on this are available at the Lake.

The catchment area for the Lake is bound by North Rocks Road, James Ruse Drive and Pennant Hills Road. The bushland extends beyond the boundary of the reserve along the banks of Hunts Creek. Access is from Lackey Street off Bourke Street, in North Parramatta.

The reserve is open all year round, with the main gate opening at 6:30am and closed at 5:30pm (7:30pm during daylight saving).It offers ample parking, picnicking and BBQ facilities, playgrounds and bushwalking tracks.

Lake Parramatta is an ideal location for family outings, exercising, nature-watching or excursions.

(There are also a range of active bush regeneration programs being run in the reserve. If you are interested in getting involved, contact Parramatta Council's Nature Resource Officer on 9806 5050.)