Good rainfall across New South Wales means holiday campers can visit most State forests this holiday season without a high risk of bush fires. 

Forests from the Queensland border to Eden and across to the west to the state will be ready to welcome visitors for a day visit or for a week or more of camping. 

“Camping in State forests is free, and people can take their dogs provided they are under proper control, and even take their horses along for a ride if they wish,” said Forests NSW manager of public programs and community interaction, Joanna Bodley. 

Forest visitors will be able to see some of the areas that are being planted to produce future crops of timber for the people of NSW near many of the camping areas. 

“Mountain biking is an increasingly popular sport and there are plenty of opportunities in State forests to explore,” Ms Bodley said. 

“People riding bikes or motorcycles or using four-wheel-drives should stick to formed tracks and not go bush bashing.” 

There is now a 60km/h speed limit on all gravel roads in State forests that are not otherwise signposted.  

“Fire is unlikely to be a problem on the coast over this holiday period, but there is every chance of stormy weather and visitors need to be mindful of falling branches,” Ms Bodley said. 

“If there is no further rainfall for a while there may be the risk of grass fire in the Riverina and some areas of the Western District. 

“If you are visiting Sydney, take the opportunity to visit Australia’s only metropolitan State forest, Cumberland State Forest at West Pennant Hills. 

“There will be a holiday program in place and the visitor centre provides an interactive experience for children. 

“There are a number of walks and a restaurant and garden nursery on site as well.” 

In the Central Region north of Newcastle  there will be ranger patrols rostered on at The Watagans, Chichester, Allyn River, Swans Crossing and Styx River picnic and camping areas. 

“All of these areas have had significant upgrades which will make them even more enjoyable for forest users,” Ms Bodley said. 

“Styx River State Forest south west of Ebor will be particularly pleasant this season after good rain and with little fire risk, making it a good base to explore the forests and parks of the New England area, and attractions such as the Dutton Trout Hatchery just along the road.

The Treetop Adventure Park at Wyong Creek, in Ourimbah State Forest just off the F3 freeway, is an excellent choice for visitors wishing to have fun as a family.”  

Ms Bodley said there had been a complete upgrade to Sealy Lookout near Coffs Harbour with a new walkway out over the forest with spectacular views along the coastline. 

On the south coast the good season of rain means the forest walks and camping areas will be in top condition and well worth a visit. 

However a solid fuel fire ban was introduced in State forests in the Riverina on 1 November.  

The ban applies to Koondrook, Perricoota and Campbell’s Island State forests.  

The ban prohibits all fires using solid fuels, such as wood or charcoal. It restricts the use of open fires because there is danger of campfires escaping into the forests. Campers may use gas but not on total fire ban days.  

In the west the Pilliga State Forests near Coonabarabran will also provide a completely different experience with almost endless free camping spots and bush walks. 

Go to www.dpi.nsw.gov/forests/recreation for more information on where to go, what to do and what to bring. 

Media contact: Howard Spencer 02 66568825 or 0428 696672