Visitors to NSW state forests are encouraged to be safe and respectful as they explore the great outdoors this summer.

Forestry Corporation’s Manager of Tourism and Partnerships Louise Faulkner said local state forests are a great place for families to get together over the holiday period.

“With more than two million hectares of state forests, there are plenty of unique places to discover and activities to share. There are so many areas where you can bring the family and picnic or camp for free – even the family dog is welcome!” Ms Faulkner said.

“State forests contain thousands of kilometres of roads and trails for four-wheel driving, mountain biking, trail biking, horse riding and bush walking.”

While there is plenty to do and see in state forests, visitors are reminded to be safe and respectful of others and the environment so that everyone is able enjoy their experience.

“Everyone is encouraged to have a great time in our state forests during the summer and remind visitors to have respect for the rules and each other. That includes observing fire bans, fully extinguishing your campfire, avoiding excessive noise and considering your fellow campers,” said Ms Faulkner.

“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 this holiday period. Alternatively, visitors can follow us on facebook for up-to-date information on special places to visit.”

Forestry Corporation’s top tips for visiting state forests over the holiday period:

1. Camping is free in NSW State forests, so there’s no excuse not to enjoy the great outdoors.
2. Dogs are welcome in NSW state forests so you can bring your four-legged friend on your family picnic or camping trip.
3. There are plenty of dedicated bushwalking tracks waiting to be explored. Improve your fitness, reap the health benefits of being outdoors or just take a gentle walk to relax.
4. Many state forests have mountain bike tracks managed by local clubs under permit. These tracks are available to ride outside Club events (you could even consider joining a local club).
5. Horse-riders - you can ride your horses on roads and fire trails in state forests.
6. Four-wheel driving and trail bike riding are allowed on formed roads and fire trails in State forests. But don’t risk a fine, remember: no licence, no rego, no ride.
7. Many State forests have fireplaces for barbecues (you can collect fallen wood to make a fire) and great spots to enjoy a picnic. You can enjoy a fire in most State forests, but not all - check our website for locations of Solid Fuel Fire Bans or visit the Rural Fire Service website for information about Total Fire Bans. In an emergency, contact 000.
8. Make sure you share your experience via #visitnswforests and @visitnswforests. The ‘Visit NSW State Forests’ facebook page will be sharing visitors' happy snaps over the holiday period, so don’t forget to tag your shots – you could be a star!

Visit http://www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit for more information about visitor experiences and destinations in your local State forest.

Media contact: Amanda McLeod 9407 4265 / 0408 779 903