With Australia Day fast approaching, Forestry Corporation of NSW is encouraging people to consider a day trip to their local State forest and miss the crowds.
There are over two million hectares of State forests freely available for visitors, however people need to plan ahead to make the best of their trip, said Forestry Corporation’s Tourism and Partnerships manager, Louise Faulkner.
“With school holidays coming to an end, many families are looking for an excuse to get out of the house to picnic, bushwalk or re-connect with nature,” Ms Faulkner said.
“State forests are great places to visit, and we encourage visitors to check the Forestry Corporation website for options, as well as any closures and alerts.
“As we’ve seen recently, rain and flash flooding can cause road closures and access issues, so please plan and prepare to experience the best of NSW State forests.
“We also strongly recommend people check the fires near me app and SES website for any emergencies that could affect their trip."
“Remember to register your visit via our COVID-19 self-notification form available on our website, or via the QR code displayed in visitor areas.”
There are plenty of unique places to discover close to major centres, Ms Faulkner said.
“There are so many areas where you can bring the family to bushwalk or picnic for free – even the family dog is welcome!” Ms Faulkner said.
“Our State forests have spectacular scenery and award-winning visitor attractions. I encourage anyone who hasn’t visited in a while to download our free VisitForests app and discover great places to enjoy these holidays.
“Sydney-siders can easily access Cumberland State Forest, Strickland State Forest and the Watagans for short day trips.
“Likewise, North Coast locals and visitors can experience the award-winning sky pier at Niigi Niigi (Sealy Lookout), learn about First Nations cultural heritage, grab a coffee or even book in a Treetops experience if they are feeling adventurous.
“Visitors can follow us on Facebook for up-to-date information on other special places to visit.”
Forestry Corporation’s top State forest tips for Australia Day
- Orara East State Forest is a short drive from Coffs Harbour and incorporates Niigi Niigi (Sealy Lookout), First Nations cultural experiences and Bruxner Flora Reserve. If you want to go for a rainforest walk, enjoy world-class views over a coffee or have some fun with a Treetop adventure, this one is for you.
- State Forests of the Watagan Mountains (Awaba, Heaton, Olney, Ourimbah, Watagan and Wyong State forests) are less than an hour from northern Sydney, offering visitors spectacular natural experiences. The Pines picnic area in Olney State Forest is a favourite spot for those seeking respite from the heat under the cool canopy.These award-winning forests highlight how natural beauty can co-exist with a sustainable forestry industry.
- Strickland State Forest is a special place and a living exhibition of exceptionally diverse forest habitats:
- wildflowers and dry heath woodland in the north
- tall eucalypts on its slopes
- lush rainforest in the south.
This much-loved day-use State forest is less than an hour's drive north of Sydney, south of Newcastle, or a 10-minute drive west of Gosford.
- Chichester State Forest is found in the lower Barrington Tops and a great spot for a swim, walk or picnic.
Chichester is divided into two distinct areas, the western side centred on the Allyn River and the eastern side centred on the Telegherry River. Both offer a great place to dip your toes in the water and enjoy lush, forested environments.
- Cumberland State Forest. Australia's only metropolitan State forest, is located at 95 Castle Hill Road West Pennant Hills, Sydney, only half an hour from the CBD. Cumberland State Forest contains 40 hectares of native forest. One-third of the land is planted as an arboretum while the rest is natural regeneration. Enjoy a forest walk, picnic or barbecue, discover the surprising diversity of wildlife in the forest.
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