Since the beginning of settlement the Nepean River has been a vital part of this areas history, development and recreation. The river was the boundary for the infant colony.Once the wild cattle were discovered at the Cowpastures two constables were stationed in a hut c.1805 (the earliest known building) on the eastern side of the river at Elderslie, upstream from the present Cowpasture Bridge, to protect the Colony's Herd.
The first bridge opened in 1827 was designed by a convict named Wainwright. The opening of the country to the west of the Nepean River for settlement followed. The bridge formed part of the Great South Road (Hume Highway) and anyone who wished to cross had to pay a toll and on Sundays was forbidden to cross at all.
Several bridges have preceded the present one which was opened in 1976. Until the long Macarthur Bridge was opened, upstream from the Cowpasture Bridge, in 1973, Camden became isolated whenever the river was in flood.
Apart from the obvious agricultural benefits, as the town of Camden developed, the river became a focal point for social gatherings along its banks with regattas, fishing and swimming in its waters.
Today, the Camden Cycleway follows the river from near Cowpasture Bridge to Elizabeth Macarthur Road near Belgenny Farm. Along this route are several scenic picnic and rest areas.