Recreation in the forests of the mid north coast

Camping and picnicking alongside crystal clear forest rivers and streams, rock hopping beside creeks, swimming in waterholes and plenty of space for tents or caravans makes the forests of the mid north coast popular with families and groups. Forests NSW' Mid North Coast region administers these native State forests around Kempsey, Wauchope, Port Macquarie and Walcha.

Mountain bike riding, bush walking and four-wheel-driving are just some of the other activities pursued in local State forests like Cowarra, Cairncross and Burrawan.

Unique to the mid north coast is the popular tourist attraction "Timbertown". This heritage park just 2km west of Wauchope gives visitors the chance to sample life as it was lived more than a century ago. You can see a working bullock team and a blacksmith at work, play a game of skittles or learn how to split timber shingles. Forests NSW has also constructed a walking trail through part of the park. Timbertown is open daily from 9.30am - 3.30pm.

Further inland, the township of Walcha also has its own special attractions. Over the last few years, Walcha has been developing an open air gallery that’s transforming the physical image of the town. Already, more than a dozen pieces of public sculpture have been erected, using local and "outside" artists, as well as indigenous and overseas sculptures. Many of the works are made from timbers supplied by Forests NSW. Take a drive or walk through town to see totem poles, train benches and other works of art.

An overview of the sites found within the State forests of the mid north coast and the facilities available at each is provided below. However, if you want detailed information on the forests and parks of region and the roads, tracks and facilities they contain, it is suggested that you purchase a Mid North Coast Forest Map. This comprehensive map shows recreation areas, special features and roads, while the colourful reverse side provides information on forest management, history and recreation in the area. The map is available for credit card purchase from Forests NSW Information Centre (open 7 days a week) on 1300 655 687 or from local Forests NSW offices (RRP $9.85 with $1 postage and handling).

Picnic areas

Area	Facilities	Map Ref
Number 1 Tower Picnic Area and Lookout		J-8
The Bluff picnic area		J-8
Swans Crossing		J-11
The Pines picnic area		N-2
Waitui Falls		J-12

Camping grounds

Area	Facilities	Map Ref
Cobrabald recreation areas		J-7
Swans Crossing		J-11
Pappinbarra Field Studies Centre		I-7

Walking trails

Trail Grade Map Ref

Easy Medium Hard

Longworths Tramline Heritage Walk
1 km (45 mins) K-11

Top Hole Trail
300m (20 mins)

J-11

Gorge Trail
2km (2 hours)

J-11

Easy: suitable for all age groups and levels of fitness, generally gentle grades.
Medium : suitable for people with an average level of fitness, contains some steeper grades.
Hard : suitable only for people with a good level of fitness, contains steep grades and rough sections of track.

Lookouts

Area	Facilities	Map Ref
Number 1 Tower Picnic Area and Lookout		J - 8

More information

The Mid North Coast Forest Map showing recreation areas, special features and roads is available for purchase from the Forests NSW Information Centre (rrp $9.85 plus $1 postage) or your local Forests NSW office. Credit card orders, over the phone, are available from Forests NSW Information Centre only (open 7 days). Phone 1300 655 687.

For specific information about the forests of the mid north coast, please contact Forests NSW Mid North Coast region office during business hours at: