Recreation in the Lower North Coast forests

Forests NSW' Hunter Region manage 211,000 hectares of native forest from Gosford on the central coast north to Forster, including Gloucester, out to Putty and Wollembi in the west. The area contains some of the most popular recreation areas in NSW, including the State forests around Bulahdelah, State forests of the Lower Barrington Tops and State forests of the Upper Barrington Tops.

The Barrington forests, including Chichester State Forest in the foothills, contain many camping grounds, picnic areas, lookouts and walking trails that are readily accessible for day-trippers or campers from across the Hunter, central coast and Sydney.

Close to fifty thousand people visit these forests each year, with popular sites include Frying Pan Creek on the banks of the Telegherry River in Chichester State Forest, and the Manning River camping area on the banks of a popular freshwater fishing stream in the upper Barrington Tops.

There are no booking requirements for camping – it's simply a matter of selecting a site. Camping is free, although it is recommended that you take your own firewood with you. And remember, while dogs are welcome in State forests they must be under your control at all times and are not allowed in adjoining national park areas.

Trail bike riding and four-wheel-driving is very popular in these forests, but such activities should be pursued responsibly. Click here for guidelines on responsible use of recreational vehicles in State forests.

More Information

The Lower North Coast Forest Map showing recreation areas, special features and roads is available for purchase from the State Forest Information Centre on 1300 655 687 or your local Forests NSW office (rrp $9.85 plus $1 postage).

For specific information about the State forests in this area please contact Forests NSW Central Region office during business hours on (02) 6585 3744.