Prospect Nature Reserve
A two-level George Maunder Lookout with views toward the Blue Mountains is the standout at Prospect Nature Reserve, a 325.3 hectare bushland reserve wrapped around Prospect Reservoir in western Sydney. Picnic areas, barbecues and walking tracks sit among its Cumberland Plain Woodland.
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About Prospect Nature Reserve
George Maunder Lookout at Prospect Nature Reserve
George Maunder Lookout gives Prospect Nature Reserve its best-known viewpoint, with a lower level about 85 metres (279 ft) above sea level and an upper level at about 110 metres (360 ft). From the lookout, visitors see across western Sydney to the Blue Mountains. The lookouts closed in the early 2000s and stayed abandoned for over a decade before reopening in 2019 after refurbishment, which replaced damaged table seats and added new signs. George Maunder Park lies beside the reservoir and includes a long grassy field and the reservoir's valve house, so the lookout sits within easy reach of the water.
Picnic and Barbecue Areas at Prospect Nature Reserve
Prospect Nature Reserve has picnic areas and barbecue areas spread across several precincts. George Maunder's two lookout levels each hold dozens of picnic tabletops, and new barbecues were installed there in 2019. Walder Park, at the southernmost end of the reserve, offers picnic seats. Andrew Campbell Reserve in the northern entry area is a picnic spot with its own tables, close to the children's playground.
Prospect Reservoir Heritage Setting at Prospect Nature Reserve
Prospect Reservoir is a heritage-listed water supply reservoir at the heart of Prospect Nature Reserve, completed in 1888 and still operated as part of the water network. The reservoir was closed from October 2013 to July 2015 for upgrades costing $13.7 million. The area also includes the Prospect History Cottage, which gives visitors a historic building to see alongside the bushland and water views.
Facilities at Prospect Nature Reserve
Visitor tips for Prospect Nature Reserve
- ✓Public entry to the wider Prospect Special Area may be restricted to protect the water supply, so confirm current access with NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service or Sydney Water before you travel.
Getting to Prospect Nature Reserve
Prospect Nature Reserve is entered from William Lawson Drive, which connects to Reservoir Road. Reservoir Road is reached from the Western Motorway to the north or Prospect Highway to the southeast. Andrew Campbell Reserve on William Lawson Drive forms the northern entry area, and Walder Park is at the southern end. Car parking is available at Andrew Campbell Reserve, George Maunder and Walder Park. Public transport is limited. The reserve is about 5 km south of Blacktown and 10 km west of Parramatta.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Prospect
- 📍Prospect History Cottage
- 📍Blacktown
- 📍Parramatta
- 📍Westlink M7
Frequently asked questions about Prospect Nature Reserve
Is Prospect Nature Reserve good for kids and families?
Andrew Campbell Reserve in the northern entry area has a children's playground, picnic tables and restrooms. The reserve also has picnic areas and barbecues for family outings.
Are there BBQ facilities and picnic tables at Prospect Nature Reserve?
Yes, barbecues and picnic tables are provided. Both George Maunder lookout levels have dozens of tables, and new barbecues were added there in 2019.
Is there parking at Prospect Nature Reserve, and is it free?
Car parking is available at Andrew Campbell Reserve, George Maunder and Walder Park. Entry to the reserve is generally free.
What are the opening hours for Prospect Nature Reserve?
The reserve is open all year on weekdays and weekends, but not on public holidays. Hours are 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM during daylight saving time and 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM outside it.
Are there toilets and drinking water at Prospect Nature Reserve?
Toilets are available at George Maunder and at Andrew Campbell Reserve. Restroom facilities are therefore found at both the northern and lookout precincts.