Cumberland State Forest

Australia’s only metropolitan state forest, Cumberland State Forest, is a beautiful native forest located at West Pennant Hills, Sydney, only half an hour from the city centre.

Enjoy a forest walk, picnic or barbecue, and discover the surprising diversity of wildlife in the forest. Cumberland State Forest is home to Calgaroo Picnic Area, Shepherds Picnic Area, Swains Picnic Area, Bellamy Picnic Area, and three walking trails – Forestry Trail, Palm Gully Trail and Sensory Trail. Visiting Cumberland State Forest is free.

This 40-hectare forest in the heart of Sydney was originally privately owned cleared land in 1908. The NSW Forestry Commission took over management in 1938 and created a dedicated State forest in 1939. At that time, one-third of the land was planted as an arboretum while the rest was allowed to regenerate naturally. Today, Cumberland is a green space in the heart of a capital city where visitors can experience the sights, sounds and serenity of the forest environment.

Cumberland State Forest is also home to independently-operated Treetops Adventure The Hills, Cafe Saligna and Plants Plus Cumberland State Forest.

Please note: Cumberland’s picnic facilities cannot be booked. They are free to use, and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.