Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Comboyne State Forest is located on the Comboyne Plateau, east of the Mid North Coast in New South Wales, Australia. Spanning diverse terrain, it features native dry and wet sclerophyll forest alongside areas of commercial pine plantations. The forest is characterized by rolling hills, fertile soils, and a mild climate, supporting a variety of flora and fauna including several threatened species. Historically, the region was inhabited by the Biripi people, and it retains cultural significance alongside its forestry and conservation values. Visitors to Comboyne State Forest can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as bushwalking, mountain biking, bird watching, and picnicking. The forest’s trails pass through tall eucalypt stands and pockets of rainforest, offering scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife like lyrebirds, kookaburras, and wallabies. Notable features include the nearby Comboyne Plateau lookout areas and small waterfalls found along walking tracks. While there are limited developed camping facilities, the area attracts visitors seeking peaceful day visits or overnight stays in dispersed bush camping spots. Comboyne State Forest’s combination of native vegetation and plantation areas highlights the balance between commercial forestry and conservation. Its easy access from towns like Taree and Wauchope makes it a favored destination for locals and visitors interested in exploring a less crowded natural environment on the NSW coast. The forest is managed by the NSW Forestry Corporation, which promotes sustainable timber harvesting along with public recreational use and habitat protection.
