The park contains the historic Cattai Homestead, built by First Fleet convict-turned-farmer Thomas Arndell.
The area was originally part of a land grant issued by Governor Macquarie in 1804.
The confluence point of Cattai Creek and the Hawkesbury River was a traditional meeting place for the Darug people.
The park features a unique combination of managed colonial-era gardens and wild sclerophyll forest.
Archaeological remnants of early 19th-century farm infrastructure are visible near the homestead grounds.
Cattai National Park is a dual-heritage site located at the confluence of the Hawkesbury River and Cattai Creek in New South Wales. The park preserves significant remnants of the First Fleet settlement, including the historic 1821 Cattai Homestead. Visitors can explore the interplay of remnant native bushland, sandstone ridges, and protected riverine ecosystems. The site functions as a key recreational space for camping, canoeing, and picnics along the riverfront. It maintains historic agricultural landscape features that contrast with the surrounding natural environments. The park serves as a refuge for diverse bird species and local fauna within the Hawkesbury-Nepean catchment area.
The historic Cattai Homestead lawn overlooking the Hawkesbury River during the golden hour.
Bring insect repellent, as the riverside location is prone to mosquitoes.
Check for current National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) alerts regarding potential flooding or fire hazards before arrival.
Utilize the designated kayak launch points to explore Cattai Creek away from the main river currents.
Do not attempt to swim in the Hawkesbury River at this location due to unpredictable river currents and submerged hazards.
Park may close during periods of extreme fire danger or localized flooding of the Hawkesbury River banks.
Carry all waste out of the park, respect heritage structures by not climbing on stonework, and keep dogs on a leash in designated areas only.
