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 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. NSW State Forests – here today, here tomorrow. Find out more about sustainable forest management.
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Recreational facilities
Kingsbury BC 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.
The Bivouac Camping Area
Situated five kilometres east of the Hume Highway next to Stingray Swamp Flora Reserve, this area is excluded from plantation establishment because of its high conservation values. Please note that camping is only permitted from Easter to the October long weekend. Access is 4WD only.
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)
