I want to go mushrooming

Mushrooms can be found in many NSW pine plantations.

The best time to collect mushrooms from pine plantations is in autumn after rain. The better areas for mushrooms are where pines are reasonably mature (more than 10 years old), which has allowed good mushroom growing needle matter to build up.

No permit is required for mushrooming. While mushrooming, please note that any timber in the area cannot be taken out of the plantations without a permit – find out about getting a firewood permit. Removal of bush rock from State forests is not permitted.

When it comes to mushrooms: If in doubt, throw it out! It cannot be emphasised strongly enough that you must correctly identify your mushrooms. Some mushrooms contain toxins and will make you extremely sick.

The Oberon Visitor's Centre has fresh mushroom samples to assist with identification and videos on how to pick and select mushrooms. The Oberon Visitor's Centre is on the corner of Edith Road and Ross Street, Oberon. The Centre is open from 10am to 4pm Monday- Saturday and 10am-3pm on Sunday. Telephone (02) 6329 8210. Some of the best mushrooming areas are around Hampton and Vulcan State forests. You can buy Forests NSW Central West Forest Map that will help you find these areas. 

Before you visit

• Take a look at important information when visiting state forests for tips on safety and sustainable recreation.

• Find a forest recreation area

Further reading

• Mushrooming in Forests NSW pine plantations