Olney State Forest
Part of the Watagans area, Onley Stet Forest is a popular recreation area. Located west of lake Macquarie, Onley in bordered by Wyong State Forest, Watagan State Forest and Watagans National Park.
Forests in this area have been harvested for timber for many decades – some for over 150 years. The forests you see today are regrowth forests which means they have been harvested many times over and grown back. Today's forest management practices protect biodiversity, soil and water quality and cultural heritage sites while also allowing for sustainable timber production. NSW State Forests – here today, here tomorrow. Find out more about sustainable forest management.
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Abbotts Falls
Starting from the Pines Picnic Area, the Abbotts Falls Trail starts in dry eucalypt forest and winds its way downhill through moist gullies of bluegum and rainforest, to Abbotts Falls Lookout before climbing out again into the drier forests around the Pines Picnic Area. Returns via German Point Road. Please note that this track receives minimal maintenance.
Casuarina
Set amongst forest oaks and a variety of eucalypts, the Casuarina Camping Area can accommodate caravans and trailers as well as individual camps. Just a five minute walk from the Pines Forest Park and walking trails.
Rocky Lily
Starting from the Basin Camping area, the rock lily trail is a delightful walk featuring rock lilies, geebungs and ferns. The walks starts amongst eucalypts, climbs into rock overhangs and deep into the rainforest gully. Please note that this trail receives minimal maintenance.
The Basin
Open grassy campsites with easy access and a flowing creek nearby are the attractions of the Basin Camping Area. Located away from the more popular areas, the Basin is suitable for large groups. Nearby creeks can be used for swimming in the warmer months. The Great North Walk runs adjacent to this camping and picnic area.
The Pines Camping Area
The Pines Camping Area is positioned under large slash pine trees, providing excellent shade. The trees are remnants of trial plantings of different pine species established in the 1920s and 1930s. There is also access to three walking trails, Abbotts Falls Trail and The Pines Trail, via a short walk to Pines Picnic Area.
The Pines Walking Trail
Starting from Pines Picnic Area, the Pines Trail follows Dora Creek with areas of moist eucalypt forests and rainforest, and a lovely rock pool.
The Pines Picnic Area
The most popular site in the Watagans, located in remnant slash pine planted in the 1920s and 1930s. There are picnic tables and wood barbecues scattered throughout this gorgeous area, while a covered shelter is also available and can be hired for exclusive use. The picnic area is also the start of three walking trails, The Pines Trail and Abbotts Falls Trail. The Pines Trail leads to a small swimming hole along the creek, popular in the summer.
Turpentine
Turpentine camping area provides many sheltered sites amongst turpentine trees. It is an ideal spot for smaller groups or families. Toilet facilities are located in the nearby Pines Camping or Casuarina Camping Areas.
Old Mill Picnic Area
Set alongside Watagan Road, the Old Mill Picnic Area is a great place for family sport, with a wide and flat grassed area surrounded by forest. Please note that this site is for day use only, with no camping allowed.
Olney Headquarters
Set alongside Watagan Road, Olney Headquarters is a great spot to have a quick rest and bite to eat, or set-up camp for the night.
Staying Safe
- Important safety information
- Call '000' in a bushfire emergency (www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au)
- Total Fire Ban and Current Fire Danger Map (www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au)
- Find out more about bushfires (www.bushfire.nsw.gov.au)
- Find out more about emergency services (www.nsw.gov.au)