Camping and picnic areas in NSW State forests are temporarily closed from midday Friday 27 March 2020 until further notice as part of the public health precaution.

Forestry Corporation’s Tourism and Partnerships Manager, Louise Faulkner said this move followed the Government direction.

“State forests are popular tourism destinations but unfortunately, right now with the COVID-19 situation, groups of people congregating and using shared facilities is not possible.

“Our concern is for the health and safety of our visitors, staff and the wider community, and these measures are in response to that.

“Visitor areas including camping areas, picnic areas and public toilets in State forests are closed until further notice.

“People currently in these areas are asked to move on and anyone planning on heading to a State forest for camping and picnicking are asked to change their plans.

This applies to all State forests in NSW including native forests and pine plantations.

Walking tracks in State forests can still be accessed for exercise although it is important that people practice social distancing of 1.5m between individuals as per the public health advice.

“We understand this decision will be disappointing for those who love to use our State forests, especially over the Easter break. However this year it is simply not possible. The Government’s advice is to avoid all unnecessary travel, and we would refer our visitors to Australian and NSW Government health directives in that regard. As a result, camping and picnicking in State forests is off the cards for the time being.

State forests already closed due to bushfire impacts will remains closed. A full list of forest closures is available on the Forestry Corporation website.

Further information is on the website at https://www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit/closures

Media contact: Joanna Bodley