Recreation in the South Coast Forests

Anyone with a fondness for the great outdoors will find fantastic opportunities in the forests of the South Coast. Hiking, birdwatching, bike riding, fishing and swimming are just a few of the most popular forest-based activities.

Bushwalking

If you enjoy birdwatching, searching for plants and animals, the smell of beautiful eucalypts, splendid forest scenery or just the quietness of the bush, come and take a walk through some of the most beautiful forests in NSW.

The State forests of the South Coast contain a number of interesting walking trails, with a number of longer mapped routes through national parks. Shorter walks are available from many of the recreation areas within State forests, while many of the roads and tracks that are part of the extensive State forest road network are infrequently used by vehicles, giving the walker the opportunity for a peaceful stroll.

Mountain bike riding

From even gravel roads through to steep and rough mountain tracks - State forest roads and trails offer it all. Those seeking a fairly challenging mountainous ride should head to the foothills of the escarpment in Dampier, Yadboro and Wandera State Forests. There are plenty of streams to cool off in or camp beside. If you prefer a more relaxing and flatter ride, stick closer to the coast where there are many lovely trails that can be followed by a refreshing ocean swim. When cycling in State forests, it's best to stick to designated forest roads and trails. Please take special care and look out for other forest traffic.

Trail bike riding

Trail bikes are popular in State forests, where the extensive network of roads and tracks allows for seemingly endless enjoyable exploration. Motorbikes must be registered, riders must be appropriately licensed and must remain on existing roads and tracks. Some tracks may be locked or closed to prevent track damage or unauthorised access to private property - please respect these closures.

Canoeing

The Clyde, Deua and Tuross Rivers are popular canoeing waterways - in addition to the countless creeks that can be explored throughout State forests.

Although quiet water paddling is well catered for on the South Coast, at times of rainfall whitewater kayaking can be experienced in the forested upper reaches of the major rivers.

Horseriding

Horseriding through the South Coast's spotted gum forests is a popular pastime for many, with a number of roads and tracks frequently used. Not only are casual visitors provided for - commercial horseriding providers are available. Ask at the local visitors information centre for details. When horseriding in State forests it's best to stick to designated forest roads and trails. Please take special care and look out for other forest traffic. Advice on where harvesting is taking place can be obtained from the Forests NSW office in Batemans Bay.

If you want detailed information on the forests and parks of the region and the roads, tracks and facilities that they contain, it is suggested that you purchase a South 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 purchase from the Forests NSW Information Centre on (02) 9871 3377 (open 7 days a week) or local your local State Forest office. RRP $9.85 with $1 postage and handling.

Lookouts

Area	Facilities	Map Ref
Big Bit Lookout		G-6
Mogood Lookout		G-4
Round Hill Lookout		G-6

Camping & Picnic Areas

Area	Facilities	Map Ref
Yadboro Flat		G-3
Lowden Forest Park		B-5
Bodalla Forest Park		F-10

Camping Guidelines

Keep vehicles to mapped and/or marked roads. General road rules apply
Don't use soaps and detergents near creeks or rivers
Don't feed or disturb native animals
If going to a remote area, let someone know your route and when you plan to return
Most remote camp sites will not have any facilities so please provide for your own environmentally-friendly personal hygiene and take camp rubbish home with you. You may also need to take fresh water.

Bushwalking trails

Trail	Grade			Map Ref
	Easy	Medium	Hard
Bodalla Forest Park Walk				F-10
Box Cutting Rainforest Walk				F-10
Coman's Mine				D-9
Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens				G-7
Lowden Forest Park Walk				B-5
Mogo Bushwalk				G-7
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.