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Visiting State forests

There’s plenty on offer when visiting a State forest - whether you’re planning a day trip or setting up camp. Here’s what you need to know to keep our forests healthy and safe for all to enjoy.

Need ideas for where to go? There’s an app for that

Visit Explore Outdoors.

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Recreational activities

The rules you need to know when exploring Victoria’s State forests.

Camping

The rules you need to know when you’re going camping in Victoria’s State forests.

Campfires, stoves and BBQs

The rules you need to know using campfires, stoves and BBQs safely in Victoria’s State forests.

Vehicle use

The rules you need to know about driving vehicles in Victoria’s State forests.

Things to note

Authorised Officers patrol State forests

Authorised Officers conduct regular patrols in State forests to help protect biodiversity and keep people safe. Failure to follow the rules may result in penalties, such as on-the-spot fines or court prosecutions.

Contact us for more information or to report suspicious activity

For more information on any of the topics mentioned on this website, or to report something suspicious, you can contact us on 136 186.

Check where you’re heading

National parks and state parks

State forests are different to national parks and state parks, which are managed by Parks Victoria and have different rules. For information about recreational activities in these parks, visit the Parks Victoria website.

Forest reserves and forest parks

There are also areas known as forest reserves and forest parks which are more protected than state forests and have slightly different rules. Those parks are listed below and the different rules are noted under the relevant sections on our website. Make sure you know where you’re heading and know the rules that apply. Contact 136 186 for more information.

Forest reserves: Brataualung Forest Park, Delatite Arm Reserve, Gunyah Rainforest Reserve, Murrundindi Scenic Reserve, Steavenson Falls Scenic Reserve, Sylvia Falls Scenic Reserve, Tarago Forest Reserve, Thomson River Forest Reserve, You Yangs Regional Park

Forest parks: Otway Forest Park, Cobboboonee Forest Park

Other parks: Yarra Tributaries Forest Reserve

Updated 15 January 2026

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