Welcome to Carawirry Forest Escape –
your home away from the everyday.
This page has everything you need for a smooth arrival.
Before you set off, check what to bring so you’re packed for comfort. We’ve got the essentials covered, from cosy linens to a well-stocked kitchen. Finding us is easy with our simple directions, and check-in is a breeze with all the details sent straight to your inbox. Carawirry is a place to switch off, but if staying connected matters, we’ll let you know what to expect. Need anything while you're here? Just give us a shout. And when you're ready to explore, there’s plenty to discover – bush trails, swimming spots, and local gems in the Dungog area.
Take a moment to check the details so you can arrive ready to relax. We can’t wait to welcome you.
When can we check in and out?
Check‑in from 3:00 p.m.; check‑out by 10:00 a.m. (strict).
Can I arrive early or check out late?
Yes, if available. Book via your booking dashboard (link in your confirmation). $89 per hour (up to 3 hours).
We’d love to arrive early but don’t need access to the cabin. Can we just leave our bags somewhere?
Sorry, no. For safety/operations (same‑day changeovers and 250 acres to maintain) early access must be booked and we don’t have secure luggage storage.
How do we get our access code?
We email your self‑check‑in code at 12 noon on arrival day. Use it any time from 3:00 p.m, or your pre-booked early arrival time.
Is there a coffee machine in the cabin?
Yes! Each cabin has a Nespresso machine (standard pods) and a handful of medium roast pods to get you started. If you have a favourite blend, feel free to bring some extra pods along.
Do I need to bring firewood?
- Inside the cabin: You’ll find a slow combustion fireplace with a small bucket of tools, kindling, firelighters (6), and matches to get you started. If you need more kindling, feel free to collect sticks from around the cabin—there’s plenty to go around! 🌳 If you think you’ll need extra firelighters, feel free to bring a few along.
- Outdoor firepit: There’s a supply of chopped, dried firewood ready for use. You’ll also find campfire cooking equipment stored in a black box near the laundry sink. Please keep fires within the designated firepit area.
🔥 Important note: During the warmer months (typically November to March), we do not supply materials for the indoor fireplace. However, firelighters and matches for the outdoor firepit can be found under the kitchen sink.
Can I drink the tap water?
Absolutely! We drink it every day. The water at each cabin is captured rainwater, stored in tanks, and filtered twice—once before entering the tank and again before reaching your cabin. It’s fresh, clean, and completely safe to drink.
What’s the address and is 2WD okay?
73 Cabbage Tree Road, Main Creek NSW 2420.
The last 2.7 km is council‑maintained gravel; our internal roads are gravel too. 2WD is fine.
What about exploring the local hikes and sights? Will I need a 4WD?
For most of the stunning walks and attractions in the area, a 2WD is all you need. The only exceptions are the Telegherry swimming hole and the local 4WD tracks, which require a 4WD vehicle. Otherwise, you’re good to go!
Is there a taxi service available?
Yes, Dungog has one private taxi service: Sparrow’s Dial-a-Ride – 📞 (02) 4992 1736
Where can we eat out?
There are some fantastic dining options nearby:
🍽 Settlers Arms Dungog – Classic pub meals with a welcoming atmosphere.
🍺 Tinshed Brewery – Local craft beers and casual bites.
🍷 Royal Hotel Dungog – Great food, great drinks, and plenty of charm.
What to Bring for Your Stay at Carawirry Forest Escape
We’ve got the essentials covered, but to make the most of your stay at Carawirry, here’s what you should bring:
Must-Haves:
- Food & Drinks – Bring everything you need for meals, snacks, and your favourite drinks. Our kitchens are fully equipped with utensils and equipment, ready for you to cook up a feast.
- Clothing – Dress for the season and pack layers. The forest can be warm during the day but cooler in the evenings.
- Closed-Toe Shoes – Ideal for exploring the bush trails safely.
For the Adventurous:
- Mountain Bikes – Explore nearby trails and immerse yourself in the scenery.
- Fishing Gear – Rods, tackle, and bait if you’re planning to fish in the local rivers.
- Binoculars – Perfect for birdwatching and spotting wildlife from your deck.
Extras for Comfort & Convenience:
- Towel for Wild Swimming – Bring a dedicated towel for outdoor swims, as Carawirry towels are for indoor use only.
- First Aid Kit – We provide a basic kit in your accommodation, but a personal one can come in handy.
- Sunscreen & Insect Repellent – Enjoy the outdoors while staying protected.
- Torch or Headlamp – Great for nighttime walks or navigating outdoor spaces after dark.
- Books, Magazines, or a Journal – Slow down and soak in the tranquillity.
Pack light, embrace nature, and get ready to unwind at Carawirry Forest
Is there a coffee machine?
Yes — Nespresso (standard Nescafe pods) plus a few medium‑roast pods to get you started.
What’s in the kitchen?
Oven, cooktop, fridge/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, cookware/utensils, plates/glassware, and pantry staples (salt, pepper, oil, tea, coffee pods, sugar).
Can we drink the tap water?
Yes. It’s rainwater stored in tanks and filtered twice. Fresh and safe. If you’d prefer, you’re welcome to bring bottled water.
Is there a BBQ?
Yes — each accommodation has a gas (LPG) BBQ with utensils. Please give the plate a clean it after use and turn the gas bottle off.
Standard Inclusions at Carawirry Forest Escape
We want your stay at Carawirry to be as comfortable and effortless as possible. That’s why we’ve taken care of the essentials so you can simply relax and enjoy your escape.
Bedrooms
- Luxurious linen, pillows, and blankets for a restful sleep
- Flexible bedding configurations where applicable
- Porta cot and highchair available on request
Kitchen
- Fully stocked with an oven, cooktop, fridge, freezer, microwave, and dishwasher
- Nespresso machine with a selection of medium roast pods
- All necessary plates, glassware, cookware, and utensils
- Pantry staples: salt, pepper, olive oil, tea, coffee pods, and sugar
Living Room
- Smart TV, Bluetooth speaker, and a collection of DVDs
- A selection of board games for cosy nights in
- Comfortable lounge area for relaxing and unwinding
Bathroom
- Soft towels, face washers, and a hairdryer
- A foot mat for added comfort
- Premium Salus body products for a spa-like experience
Outdoor
- Gas BBQ with all necessary tools for alfresco dining
- Outdoor furniture to enjoy the tranquil forest surroundings
- Washing machine with detergent provided for your convenience
Everything you need for a seamless and relaxing getaway awaits at Carawirry. Pack light, settle in, and let nature take care of the rest.
Do you supply firewood and firelighters?
Yes. Firewood is included for outdoor fire pits and indoor fireplaces at all cabins, plus the wood‑fired hot tub at The Gum Leaf Cabin. Each booking includes six (6) firelighter cubes, kindling and a box of matches. Bring extras if you’ll need more.
Important: During the warmer months (typically November–March) we do not supply indoor fireplace materials. Firelighters and matches for the outdoor firepit are under the kitchen sink.
Any fire restrictions?
On Total Fire Ban days, outdoor fires are prohibited. Please follow NSW RFS directions (we recommend the Hazards/Fires Near Me NSW app).
Can we use candles?
No. Candles and open flames inside are prohibited — timber cabins in a forest setting. For safety, we also strongly discourage candles outdoors year‑round; the fire risk in our forest environment is high. Please avoid using candles anywhere on the property.
Bath, hot tub, bathhouse or plunge pool tips?
Supervise children; surfaces can be slippery. No bath oils, dyes, bath bombs or glassware. Misuse/extra cleaning may be charged to your security bond.
Getting to Carawirry Forest Escape
Your escape to nature begins at 73 Cabbage Tree Road, Main Creek, NSW 2420, nestled in the heart of Chichester State Forest’s lush wilderness. Just 20 minutes from the charming town of Dungog, your journey will take you through scenic countryside and into a peaceful forest retreat.
Driving Directions:
- From Sydney:
- Take the M1 north towards Newcastle.
- Merge onto the Pacific Highway (A43) and follow signs for Dungog.
- Once in Dungog, take Stroud Hill Road, then turn onto Main Creek Road.
- Follow Cabbage Tree Road until you see the Carawirry Forest Escape sign.
- From Newcastle:
- Head north on the Pacific Highway (A43) towards Raymond Terrace.
- Take the exit towards Dungog and follow Stroud Hill Road.
- Turn onto Main Creek Road, then continue onto Cabbage Tree Road.
- Look out for the Carawirry Forest Escape sign – you’ve arrived!
3. From Port Macquarie (North):
-
- Take the Pacific Highway (A1) south towards Taree.
- Exit onto Bucketts Way towards Gloucester.
- Continue through Gloucester and take the Dungog Road towards Dungog.
- From Dungog, follow Stroud Hill Road, then turn onto Main Creek Road.
- Continue along Cabbage Tree Road until you reach the Carawirry Forest Escape sign.
Final Steps:
Once you reach the entrance, follow the internal road to your booked cabin, where your forest retreat awaits. Enjoy the journey and let the adventure begin!
Check-In & Check-Out Information
To ensure a seamless and stress-free stay at Carawirry Forest Escape, please take note of our standard check-in and check-out times.
Check-In
- Time: From 3:00 PM onwards
- On your check-in day, you’ll receive an email at 12 noon with the access code for your cabin.
- Use this code to enter your accommodation and settle in at your own pace.
Check-Out
- Time: By 10:00 AM
- Before you leave, please follow the departure checklist provided in your cabin and ensure the following:
- After using the BBQ, check that the gas bottle is turned off to keep things safe.
- Load the dishwasher, add a tablet, and set it to Eco mode and start it.
- Empty the fridge of all food items.
- Take all rubbish to the council bins outside and separate recyclables. The Carawirry kids collect Return and Earn items for pocket money—please leave any eligible bottles in the designated bin.
- Log out of any streaming services (Netflix, Stan, Disney+ etc.).
- Check for personal belongings—look beside the beds and behind furniture.
- Leave all used towels in the bathroom, including dirty tea towels. No need to strip the beds.
- Turn off the TV, all lights, air conditioning, and fans.
- Make sure all windows and doors are closed and locked before leaving.
Where do we park?
Gravel only. Drive/park on designated gravel roads, driveways and bays. No driving or parking on grass under any circumstances. Bogging and lawn damage may incur remediation charges (deducted from your security bond).
Lost something?
Items found are held for 7 days then disposed/donated. We can post items via Australia Post at your expense (photo of receipt + payment link). Carawirry accepts no liability for items left behind.
Mobile Reception at Carawirry Forest Escape
Stay Disconnected… or Connected—It’s Up to You
Mobile reception is patchy. We provide reliable Starlink Wi‑Fi in your accommodation. The smart TV is connected for streaming.
Need to Stay Connected?
If you do need to reach the outside world, we’ve got you covered with fast and reliable Wi-Fi via Starlink. Whether you need to check in with work, send a few emails, or scroll through #instalove, our internet connection is just as reliable as the morning chorus of kookaburras.
The smart TV is permanently connected, so streaming your favourite show is hassle-free. But if you’re here to truly unplug, we encourage you to soak in the natural surroundings, enjoy the quiet, and embrace a little digital detox.
Enjoy the best of both worlds—disconnect when you want, connect when you need.
Connect to the Wi-Fi:
Network: Guest Network
Password: Carawirry02
Need Assistance during your stay?
Everything you need to know about your cabin will be in the guidebook on the kitchen table. It covers the basics, including how to start a fire, connect to the Wi-Fi, and navigate your way around Dungog.
Need Further Help?
If you require assistance beyond the guidebook, don’t hesitate to give us a Coo-ee! We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
Please keep in mind that we don’t live at Carawirry—we’re avid explorers ourselves and are often out enjoying the beautiful area. We may not always have immediate mobile service, but rest assured, as soon as we’re back in range and your message comes through, we’ll be in touch.
In the meantime, sit back, relax, and enjoy the tranquillity of the forest!
Exploring Carawirry & the Dungog Area
On the Property
When you arrive, take a look at the property map in your cabin. Carawirry offers a range of trails perfect for walking, biking, and hiking. Wander through towering old-growth cedar forests, follow the sound of cascading waterfalls, or make your way to the swimming dam for a refreshing dip. Pack a picnic and head to the jetty for a peaceful lunch surrounded by nature.
Nearby Walks & Adventures
Beyond Carawirry, the surrounding state forests and national parks are filled with stunning trails and hidden gems. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Problem Creek Falls (13 km / ~25 min drive)
A short but rewarding walk leading to a stunning waterfall hidden deep in the bush. This easy-to-moderate track meanders through dense rainforest, with glimpses of native birdlife along the way. The final reveal of the cascading falls is well worth the effort, making it a perfect walk for nature lovers and photographers alike. More info
Jerusalem Creek Walk (13 km / ~21 min drive)
A scenic hike through lush rainforest leading to a series of beautiful rock pools. This moderately challenging trail follows the picturesque Jerusalem Creek, passing through cool, shaded woodlands before arriving at crystal-clear pools ideal for a mid-hike swim. Keep an eye out for vibrant birdlife and local wildlife along the way. More info
Ladies Well (77 km / ~1 hr 25 min drive)
A popular swimming spot with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by pristine bushland. A short, family-friendly walk leads to the natural rock pools, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings. On warm days, the cool, refreshing water provides the perfect retreat from the summer heat. More info
Blue Gum Loop & Crystal Pools (55 km / ~56 min drive)
An easy but stunning trail winding through towering blue gums, leading to a secluded series of natural pools. This gentle walk is perfect for those looking for a relaxed outing with breathtaking scenery. The crystal-clear water invites you to take a rejuvenating dip, while the surrounding bushland offers plenty of shady spots to unwind. More info
Rocky Crossing, Barrington Tops (55 km / ~56 min drive)
A breathtaking trail that takes you through dense rainforest, crossing scenic creeks and waterfalls in the beautiful Barrington Tops National Park. This moderately difficult walk rewards hikers with incredible views, abundant wildlife, and the serene beauty of the untouched wilderness. The crossing itself is a highlight, where you can pause and take in the rushing waters before continuing your adventure. More info
Make the Most of Your Stay
Whether you’re exploring the trails on the property or venturing further afield, take your time to soak in the serenity of the forest. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, listen to the sounds of the bush, and let nature guide your adventure.