You might know Blackbutt Forest Reserve from school cross-country visits or even from the gorgeous Enchanted Forest light and sound show that takes place there throughout the year. But, did you know it’s also an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll with the fam all year round… yep Fido included?
We spent some time exploring the West and East Fire Trails in the reserve over the weekend, so here’s what you need to know before you go:
Family Friendly :: This is a bit of a choose-your-own-adventure type of walk with the main track of the fire trail being straight and wide, perfect for families of most ages. But if you decide to take one of the smaller tracks leading off the trail, you’ll find yourself climbing up and down rocky hills and perhaps a little bit of bushwhacking too. Better for primary school-aged kiddos and above.
Accessibility :: The Reserve is located inside the suburb of Blackbutt and there are a couple of entrances.
The North Entrance is the more popular entrance for walking the reserve and to get to it from Shellharbour Road turn into Woodlands Drive, then turn left onto Blackbutt Way [you will see a sign for the reserve]. This leads you right up to the parking and picnic area.
The Blackbutt Park entrance is just off the roundabout on Wattle Road in Shellharbour. There’s also a picnic area here too.
Length :: You can really walk as little or as long as you like here. The loop of just the main West and East Fire Trail is around 2 km but you don’t need to do it all, or you can actually do more if you take some of the offshoot trails leading from the main trail.
Duration :: Much like the length, you can also choose how long you’d like to explore for. Anything from a brisk 30 mins to over two hours just rambling around.
STUNNING IN THE SUBURBS
When you’re wandering around this beautiful reserve it’s so hard to believe you’re in the middle of a suburb. It’s like you’ve stumbled on a secret forest oasis full of wonder.
It’s actually the largest bushland reserve in the Illawarra and the last remaining coastal plain forest in the area as well. It’s home to loads of native wildlife including cockatoos, lizards and Grey-headed Flying-foxes.
HOW TO EXPLORE
From the North Entrance, there are two options: the West or East Fire Trail. The West Trail starts from a gate just west of the car park and the East Trail begins at the end of the playground and picnic area.
We began with the West Trail before a rest at the picnic area and then headed over to the East Trail. Both sides offer a ‘main trail’ that is wider and well-trodden as well as off-shoot trails that are smaller, thinner and potentially lead up or downhill whichever you choose to follow.
The whole reserve is dog-friendly just make sure to keep them on a leash.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Green and lots of it! The reserve is full of native trees and plants. The gum trees give off loads of shade and providing you don’t come on or after a rainy day, the ground is usually pretty dry.
There are two playgrounds inside the reserve as well as covered picnic areas, BBQs and toilets. It’s a wonderful spot to spread out and relax for the day and every time we visit, we see families doing just that.
WILDLIFE SPOTTING
You should also be able to spot quite a few wildlife pals including dragonflies, butterflies, lizards, cockatoos and if you come in Spring, Grey-headed Flying-foxes.
Around October each year, female Grey-headed Flying-foxes choose the reserve as their home for giving birth to pups. During this time, you can find anywhere from 1,000 to 6,000 of these magnificent creatures in the reserve. As they are nocturnal and sleep during the day, be sure to explore quietly and avoid disturbing their rest
MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT
There are plenty of ways to explore the reserve. The main trails are a good spot to start and are a moderately challenging but not too difficult stroll. We recommend taking the main trail until you reach the end and then if you’re feeling adventurous on your return choosing an offshoot either up or down the reserve. All of the smaller paths lead back to the main path eventually so you don’t have to worry too much about getting lost.
If you opt for one of the smaller trails, keep in mind that the reserve is within the suburb of Blackbutt, and some paths may lead behind people’s homes. Be sure to be respectful and considerate during your stroll.
Once you’re done exploring, we totally recommend having a little relax and a picnic at the playground. The facilities here are excellent with a big playground for the kiddos, loaaaads of space to stretch out, BBQs, shaded tables and toilets.
Oh, and don’t forget to take some pics on this cool chair.
There are also some interesting bits and bobs around the reserve that really lean into the magical forest vibe of the place.
Speaking of magic, keep an eye out for the next Enchanted Forest show at the reserve. They are such a hit in the Illawarra and worth grabbing a ticket to. It’s like our very own mini-Vivid, with stunning lights and special effects. Incredible for all ages.
Good To Know :: This can be a whole day out or a quick sojourn kind of dealio, so plan your day accordingly. The trails are all dirt and grass so if it’s been raining you might want to wait a couple of days for everything to dry up before visiting.
Why We Love It :: A forest amongst the houses, how could we not?! It’s also a great option for a dog walk that’s easier on the knees but still gorgeous on the eyes.
What’s Nearby :: Shellharbour Village is only a couple of minutes’ drive away. If you’re not feeling the picnic vibes you can grab some yummy fish and chippies and sit on the water or go for a post-walk swim at the Beverley Whitfield Pool.
