Old Bottlebutt Burrawan State Forest
Stand in awe of Old Bottlebutt, a colossal Red Bloodwood tree, the largest of its kind, nestled in the serene Burrawan State Forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet exploration
Old Bottlebutt Burrawan State Forest
Best Time
Peaceful and quiet exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stand in awe of Old Bottlebutt, a colossal Red Bloodwood tree, the largest of its kind, nestled in the serene Burrawan State Forest.
"Photos don't do it justice or show its magnificence; it's a truly impressive and beautiful old tree."
🚗 Follow the Signs Carefully
Stay on Bago Road and look for the specific sign for Old Bottlebutt to avoid detours. :round_pushpin:
👟 Be Prepared for Nature
Wear sturdy shoes and consider leech socks, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Old Bottlebutt
Burrawan State Forest
Stand in awe of the largest known Red Bloodwood tree, a magnificent giant with a massive girth.
Red Bloodwood Tree
Burrawan State Forest
Discover the unique 'bloodwood' tree, known for its red sap, a fascinating natural wonder.
Scenic Forest Drive
Road to Old Bottlebutt
Enjoy a picturesque drive through the forest, with beautiful scenery and occasional river crossings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Dirt Road Adventure
Embrace the Untouched Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Follow the Signs Carefully
Stay on Bago Road and look for the specific sign for Old Bottlebutt to avoid detours. :round_pushpin:
👟 Be Prepared for Nature
Wear sturdy shoes and consider leech socks, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photos Don't Do Justice
The sheer scale of Old Bottlebutt is hard to capture in photos; experience it in person!
🚻 Amenities Available
Restrooms and picnic tables are available at the parking area.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Follow the Signs Carefully
Stay on Bago Road and look for the specific sign for Old Bottlebutt to avoid detours. :round_pushpin:
👟 Be Prepared for Nature
Wear sturdy shoes and consider leech socks, especially after rain. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photos Don't Do Justice
The sheer scale of Old Bottlebutt is hard to capture in photos; experience it in person!
🚻 Amenities Available
Restrooms and picnic tables are available at the parking area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring scale and unique nature of the Old Bottlebutt tree, describing it as a magnificent and impressive sight. The scenic drive and peaceful forest setting are also highlights. However, some note the need for better signage and upkeep, and the unsealed road can be a challenge for some vehicles.
"Old Bottlebutt is nice little walk. Magnificent tree of substantial size. Nice leisurely walk, not for anyone that has issues with footing ect. Needs more signage along the walk and a bit more up keep. However it's all untouched nature except for walk ways. The Old Bottlebutt, towers over the canopy and photos don't do it justice or show its magnicance.
There are toilets and tables at the rest area at the beginning of the track.
The road to Old Bottlebutt, is dirt, however very nice scenery."
Nikki Wicks
"Its a very impressive tree. Well signposted to get there. The road is narrow and rough so worth driving with care but the path is easy to walk on and its a nice short loop around. I only encountered one other person on the road, otherwise it was very quiet and peaceful"
Chandani Heaven
"This is definitely worth your time to go see, parking is limited and it’s a short walk to Old Bottlebutt but one that is so beautiful, not wheelchair friendly unfortunately and those with limited mobility would struggle along the walking track ~ there is public amenities in the parking area."
Nay Nah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The forest is accessible via a dirt road. Ensure you follow the signs for 'Old Bottlebutt' from Bago Road, as GPS navigation can sometimes lead to longer routes. The road is narrow and rough in places, so drive with caution, especially in a 2WD vehicle. +1
The road is unsealed and can be rough. While many 2WD vehicles can manage it with care, it's advisable to drive slowly and be aware of the conditions.
GPS can be helpful, but it's crucial to also follow the physical signage for 'Old Bottlebutt' once you are on Bago Road. Some users have reported GPS leading them on longer or incorrect paths.
The drive itself is quite scenic, offering beautiful forest views and even some charming river crossings. It's part of the overall natural experience.
Old Bottlebutt is located a short drive from Port Macquarie or Wauchope, making it a feasible excursion from these areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Old Bottlebutt or Burrawan State Forest in traveler reviews, suggesting it is free to access. +1
As a natural forest area, Old Bottlebutt is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening hours are not typically advertised.
No advance booking is required for visiting Old Bottlebutt. It's a natural attraction that can be visited spontaneously.
Yes, there is parking available at the rest area near the start of the walking track. However, parking can be limited.
Public amenities, including toilets and picnic tables, are available at the rest area in the parking lot.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walking track is a nice, short loop around the magnificent Old Bottlebutt tree. It's generally easy to walk on, though not suitable for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility issues. +1
It's a short walk to Old Bottlebutt from the parking area. The loop around the tree is also brief, making it an accessible natural experience for most.
The short, relatively easy walk makes it manageable for families. However, supervision is essential due to the natural terrain.
While not explicitly detailed in reviews, being a state forest, you can expect to encounter native Australian flora and fauna. The focus is on the impressive tree itself.
Mobile reception can be spotty in state forests. It's advisable to download any necessary maps or information beforehand.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The primary photo opportunity is the immense Old Bottlebutt tree itself. Try to capture its scale by including a person for reference. The surrounding forest also offers beautiful shots.
Yes, the distinctive red sap of the Bloodwood tree is a unique feature. If you see it, it makes for an interesting close-up photograph. +1
Morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful, soft lighting for forest photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage in state forests is subject to specific regulations. It's best to check with the relevant forestry authority before flying a drone.
Use a wider aperture for portraits of the tree to create depth, and a narrower aperture for landscape shots to ensure sharpness throughout.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the walk itself is accessible, it's not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs, so be prepared to carry younger children if needed. The unique 'bloodwood' tree is sure to spark curiosity and imagination in young minds.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
While the immediate walk is short, the surrounding state forest offers opportunities for further exploration for those seeking a longer hike. Be prepared for unsealed roads and potentially damp conditions, especially after rain, and pack accordingly.
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magnificent Old Bottlebutt Tree
Its most striking feature is its massive, flared 'butt', giving it a unique and ancient appearance. The sheer girth of the base is estimated to be over 16 meters, a truly awe-inspiring sight that photos struggle to convey. These trees are known for their distinctive red sap, which gives them the 'bloodwood' name.
Visitors often express a sense of wonder and insignificance when standing beside this giant. It’s a powerful reminder of the ancient ecosystems that exist and the importance of preserving these natural wonders. The experience of walking around its base and looking up into its vast canopy is often described as humbling and unforgettable.
Navigating the Forest Roads
The road itself offers a pleasant scenic drive, winding through the forest and providing glimpses of the natural beauty of Burrawan State Forest. You might even encounter small river crossings, adding a touch of rustic charm to the approach.
Upon arrival, you'll find a rest area with basic amenities like toilets and tables, serving as a convenient starting point for the short walk to the tree. The drive is an integral part of the experience, preparing you for the natural splendor that awaits.
The Walking Experience
However, it's important to note that the track is not wheelchair friendly, and individuals with limited mobility may find it challenging due to the natural terrain.
Be mindful of the natural environment; after rain, the forest floor can be damp, and leeches may be present on shoes and socks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit