NSW Forestry Corp. has released the ultimate guide to free camping in NSW State Forests
Plan your perfect free camping adventure with the newly released NSW State Forest free camping guide. Learn more here.
By Jessica Palmer,
October 21, 2024
Hitch the RV (or grab the tent) and load up the car – we’ve got your go-to guide for free camping, picnics, and visitor spots in NSW State forests.
From stunning trails and viewpoints to pet-friendly campsites, crystal-clear waterholes, and popular tourist spots, State forests are prime destinations for camping adventures.
“State forests are a fabulous resource for the community – they are free to use, offer an array of facilities and more basic ‘back to nature’ camping and visitor can even bring their dogs along,” says Louise Faulkner, Manager of Tourism and Partnerships. “We love people visiting the forest and ask everyone to look after the sites for others – take your rubbish with you.”
State Forests do more than just welcome campers
State forests do more than just welcome campers; they’re working landscapes that balance tourism, wildlife protection, grazing, beekeeping, and sustainable timber production.
“It is important to remember that State forests are working forests and visitors may come across trucks and closed areas related to sustainable timber harvesting,” explains Northern Regional Manager Dean Caton. “Each year, we harvest and regrow timber from State forests which goes into thousands of home as framing, flooring and decking and critical infrastructure like powerpoles and wharf timbers.”
Caton also points out that trucks use these roads regularly, so it’s best to stay alert. “Visitors should drive slowly, pay attention to road conditions, and use radio call-ups if they have them. Trucks can’t easily move to the road edges due to their weight, so it’s safer for smaller vehicles to give way.”
For a safe and enjoyable trip, just keep your surroundings in check – watch where you step, be aware of overhead hazards, and give trucks plenty of space.
To help you find some top-notch spots to visit…
Forestry Corporation staff have shared their favourite picks:
- Coopernook State Forest – Leah Moncrieff, Partnerships Leader, says, “It’s a place that grows on you over time. There’s so much history, and it’s easy to see why folks find it so peaceful.”
- Sealy Lookout, Orara East State Forest (near Coffs Harbour) – “Not too remote, easy to reach, with great lookouts and unique walking areas,” shares Owen Lewis, Forestry Worker.
- Moonan Cottage, near Barrington Tops – Louise Faulkner, Manager of Tourism and Partnerships, loves it for the stunning views at Moonan Outlook and cool, dense pine forests at The Firs. “Perfect for family trips, and the sunsets are unbeatable.”
- Tirrill Creek, Bulga State Forest – Mark Drury, Ecologist, describes it as “a special spot with subtropical rainforest and scenic rockpools.”
- Koondrook and Perricoota State Forests (Murray River) – “Great for fishing, boating, and kayaking,” says Rob Young, Partnerships Leader. “I’m all about catching Murray Cod and Yellow Belly.”
- Guulabaa – Place of Koala, Cowarra State Forest – Kathy Lyons, Senior Manager Country & Community, highlights this Mid North Coast gem. “It’s got WildNets, the Big Koala sculpture, and the soon-to-open Wild Koala Breeding Facility. Plus, there’s a café and picnic facilities coming soon. It’s a must-stop for anyone exploring the area.”
So, whether you’re after a peaceful camping trip, a day out with the kids, or a bit of fishing, NSW State Forests have you covered. Just remember – take your rubbish, respect the space, and enjoy the great outdoors!
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