Comboyne State Forest

Perched high on the Comboyne Plateau, Comboyne State Forest is a lush temperate rainforest escape just inland from Port Macquarie. This cool-climate haven is crisscrossed with walking trails that wind through towering eucalypts, ancient Antarctic beech trees, and dense fern gullies. It's a place where the air smells of damp earth and eucalyptus, and the soundtrack is birdsong and the rustle of leaves. For those seeking a serene nature immersion away from the coast, this forest delivers a genuine wilderness experience.

Highlights & What to See

• Boorganna Nature Reserve: A protected pocket of old-growth rainforest within the forest, home to the impressive 80-metre-tall flooded gum trees and a tranquil picnic area by the Rawson River.
• Rawson River Walk: A gentle 2.5 km loop trail that follows the river, passing through cool rainforest with plenty of birdlife and the chance to spot wallabies.
• Kunderang Brook Walking Track: A longer, more challenging 8 km return hike that takes you through varied forest types to a secluded swimming hole.
• Comboyne Lookout: Panoramic views over the Hastings River Valley and out to the coast – a perfect spot for a picnic or sunset photography.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for lyrebirds, king parrots, and if you're lucky, the elusive platypus in the creeks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ideal for exploring the forest – allow 2–3 hours for a short walk and a picnic, or up to 5 hours if you tackle the longer Kunderang Brook track. The forest is best visited in the morning when bird activity is highest, or in the late afternoon for golden light. Combine with a visit to the nearby town of Comboyne for lunch at the local café or a browse at the farmers' market (held on weekends).

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie: Just a 40-minute drive east, the coastal hub offers beaches, the Koala Hospital, and the lively town centre.
• Wauchope: A historic timber town on the Hastings River, with the acclaimed Timbertown heritage park and river cruises.
• Ellenborough Falls: One of Australia's tallest single-drop waterfalls, about an hour's drive north-west, with a dramatic viewing platform and walking track.
• Camden Haven: A scenic region of lakes and estuaries south of Port Macquarie, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and coastal walks.

Please check official sources for current details.