Sherwood Nature Reserve is located west of Woolgoolga and incorporates the former Woolgoolga Creek Flora Reserve as well as open forests, heaths and sandstone escarpments.
The reserve stretches in narrow corridors from a rare strip of lowland subtropical rainforest along Woolgoolga Creek to a larger area further northwest that conserves a rugged sandstone range towering over the Orara Valley.
These differing habitats provide refuge to a diversity of species, including sooty and powerful owls, giant barred frogs and leaf-tailed geckoes.
Lovely panoramic views over the Orara Valley can be enjoyed from the escarpment.
Take a scenic drive (4WD recommended) from Woolgoolga to Nana Glen or further to Glenreagh to discover the wide diversity of landscapes and plant communities including subtropical rainforest and wet eucalypt forest.
For a more vigorous and closer up experience, park your car at the Woolgoolga Picnic Area and take the easy 3.5km return walk (1.5hrs) to the waterfall.
The track winds its way upstream along Woolgoolga Creek through rainforest vegetation consisting of qandong, rusty plum, booyong, amazing elkhorns, strangler figs and strands of hoop pine.
Return to the picnic area and spread out a picnic on the grass or use one of the picnic tables or barbecues provided to enjoy some well-earned refreshments.
Things to see and do
- Forest drive: Take a scenic drive from Woolgoolga to Nana Glen or Glenreagh along Gentle Annie Road and Sherwood Road to experience the reserve’s diverse habitats.
- Picnic & BBQ: Enjoy a quiet picnic or barbecue in the cool shade of the tall surrounding trees. Picnic tables, barbecues and toilets are available.
- Walk & waterfall: Take the 3.5km return walk through the luxuriant rainforest along the old logging tramway beside Woolgoolga Creek to a delightful waterfall. Walk starts at picnic area.
- Birds & wildlife: Listen for the call of bush birds such as cockatoos, fruit pigeons and bowerbirds. The reserve is also home to sooty and powerful owls, giant barred frogs and leaf-tailed geckoes, among many other native species.
Getting There
Turn west off the Pacific Highway at the Woolgoolga roundabout, 25km north of Coffs Harbour. Drive 3km along Woolgoolga Creek Road and turn left into the reserve where you see the sign and picnic tables.
Enquiries
For further information, contact the National Parks and Wildlife Service – Coffs Coast Area Office on (02) 6652 0900 or visit the
National Parks information page.
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