Penrose State Forest
Penrose State Forest is one of the most well-known forests in NSW, given its location on either side of the Hume Highway and being just over an hour from Sydney.
A pine forest, Penrose also features a flora reserve. Forests in this area are a mixture of pine plantations and native forests.
The first radiata pines were planted in this area in Belanglo State Forest in 1919. Today there are around 3,500 hectares of commercial pine plantations in the southern highlands with timber being processed at a local mill.
Today's forest management practices protect biodiversity, soil and water quality and cultural heritage sites while also allowing for sustainable timber production. Find out more about sustainable forest management.
Recreational facilities
Kingsbury VC Rest Area
Dedicated to Bruce Kingsbury VC in 1995, Penrose Rest Area forms part of the Remembrance Driveway that honours Australian war heroes between Canberra and Sydney. Adjacent to the Hume Highway, there is ample parking space, making it perfect for a quick stop or a day out. There is room for caravans and campervans.
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Maps
Staying Safe
- Important information when visiting state forests
- Call '000' in a bushfire emergency (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au)
- Total Fire Ban and Current Fire Danger Map (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au)
- Signs in State Forests
- Solid Fuel Fire Bans
Useful information
Authorised hunting
Some State forests are declared for authorised hunting. Find out more about authorised hunting in State forests, including licensing and applying for permits.
Pesticide use This area is designated as ‘high public usage’ under Forestry Corporation of NSW’s Pesticide Use Notification Plan [PDF 3.83 MB].
Visit sustainably
Find out how to minimise the impact of your visit.