Families are being encouraged to get outdoors and make the most of the upcoming school holidays by exploring the diverse range of free, nature-based experiences available in the State forests.

The two million hectares of State forests in NSW offer something for every age and interest from peaceful walking tracks and waterfalls to mountain bike trails, dog friendly picnic areas, scenic lookouts and unique adventure attractions.

Visitor Experience Manager Steve Pickering said the July school holidays are an ideal time for families to reconnect with nature and discover new places close to home.

“Whether you want to enjoy a picnic or barbecue with the family, take the kids camping by a creek, or try something more adventurous like mountain biking or a TreeTops Adventure Park, there is truly something for everyone in our State forests,” Mr Pickering said.

Spending time outdoors has well known physical and mental health benefits and State forests provide accessible and affordable options for families looking to unwind.

Things to do these school holidays

• Walking tracks & waterfalls — including the waterfall walks in Strickland State Forest.

• Camping by creeks — family‑friendly spots such as Frying Pan Creek in Chichester State Forest.

• Picnics in scenic areas — like The Pines in Olney State Forest or Wild Cattle Creek state forest near Coffs Harbour.

• Mountain biking — with over 20 dedicated mountain bike parks located from Eden in the south to New Italy on the north coast there is bound to be a park near you.

• Adventure attractions — including TreeTop and WildNets Adventure Parks in Cumberland, Qurimbah, Cowarra and Orara East state forests.

• Fishing and canoeing — In Barrington Tops State Forest and Styx River State Forest.

• Lookouts and scenic drives — such as Heaton, McLeans and Hunter lookouts.

• Just get out, enjoy nature and discover your own adventure

Forestry Corporation is urging holiday travellers to plan their state forest journeys carefully, particularly when using digital navigation apps.

“Some mapping apps may suggest routes that include rarely used State forest roads or fire trails that are not part of the public road network, so plan your trip in advice checking the Forestry Corporation and Transport NSW websites for closure notices and advice,” Mr Pickering said.

Always stop and reassess your travel route and stop and reassess if a road begins to narrow, is overgrown or has large potholes or water across the roadway.

During the school holidays, Forestry Corporation encourages families to support nearby towns and local businesses while exploring state forests.