Bulahdelah State Forest

Just west of the charming town of Bulahdelah, this sprawling state forest is a haven for those craving solitude and raw nature. Towering eucalypts, hidden creeks, and a network of fire trails make it perfect for a self-drive escape or a day of bushwalking. The forest feels genuinely wild – you’re more likely to encounter a lyrebird than another car, and the scent of gum leaves hangs thick in the air.

Highlights & What to See

• Alum Mountain Lookout: A short but steep walk rewards you with panoramic views over the Myall River and the forest canopy. Best in the late afternoon light.
• Four-wheel-drive trails: The forest has dozens of unsealed tracks ideal for a 4WD adventure. Try the Bulahdelah Mountain Trail for a bumpy ride through dense scrub.
• Picnic spots by the river: Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot along the Myall River – look for the small clearing near the Bulahdelah Mountain base.
• Birdwatching: Keep an eye out for glossy black-cockatoos, yellow-tailed black-cockatoos and whipbirds. Dawn is the best time.
• Wildflowers in spring: From August to October, the forest floor erupts with flannel flowers, boronia and orchids.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is enough to explore the key highlights – do the lookout walk, a short 4WD loop and a river picnic. If you’re keen on hiking or birdwatching, allow a full day. The forest is also a great overnight stop for campervans (no facilities, so come self-contained).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bulahdelah township – grab supplies or a coffee at the historic bakery
• Myall Lakes National Park – just east, with pristine lakes and koala spotting
• Seal Rocks – a coastal gem with a lighthouse and surf beaches, 30 minutes south
• Bombah Point – a remote ferry crossing into the Myall Lakes wilderness
• Port Macquarie – the regional hub, 45 minutes north, with beaches and the Koala Hospital

Please check official sources for current details.