Strickland State Forest

Just a stone's throw from the bustling Central Coast, Strickland State Forest is a serene pocket of subtropical rainforest that feels worlds away. This lush, 538-hectare reserve is a haven for nature lovers, with towering turpentine and blackbutt trees, trickling creeks, and a network of walking trails that wind through ancient ferns and mossy boulders. It’s a place where the air smells of damp earth and eucalyptus, and the only soundtrack is birdsong and the rustle of leaves.

Highlights & What to See

• Pines Circuit Walk – A gentle 1.5 km loop that takes you through a stunning plantation of tall pines and remnant rainforest, perfect for a short, immersive stroll.
• Strickland Falls – A seasonal waterfall that cascades into a cool, rocky pool; best visited after rain when the flow is strong.
• Birdwatching – Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, satin bowerbirds, and yellow-tailed black cockatoos flitting through the canopy.
• Picnic Areas – Shady spots near the forest entrance with tables and fireplaces, ideal for a quiet lunch surrounded by towering trees.
• Historic Timber-getting Sites – Interpretive signs reveal the forest’s logging past, with old tramways and saw pits still visible along some trails.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ample to explore the main walking trails and enjoy a picnic. Arrive early to beat the heat and crowds, especially on weekends. If you’re keen on birdwatching or photography, allow three to four hours to wander the quieter paths. Combine with a morning at nearby Somersby Falls for a full day of nature.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Somersby Falls – A short drive away, these picturesque waterfalls drop over sandstone cliffs into a series of pools, with easy walking tracks and picnic spots.
• Gosford – The Central Coast’s main hub, offering cafés, the Gosford Regional Gallery, and the historic Henry Kendall Cottage.
• Brisbane Water National Park – Explore more bushwalks, Aboriginal rock engravings, and the scenic Great North Walk through this adjacent park.
• Terrigal – A lively beachside town with surf beaches, the Skillion lookout, and excellent seafood dining.
• Australian Reptile Park – Located in Somersby, this family-friendly attraction showcases native reptiles and wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas.

Please check official sources for current details.