Deanei Forest Reserve
Deanei Forest Reserve is a bushland reserve east of the Springwood township that protects remnant blue gum forest, one of the last remnants of Shale Cap Forest in the Blue Mountains. Bushwalking trails lead through the reserve, where 62 bird species have been recorded.
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About Deanei Forest Reserve
Shale Cap Forest and Wildlife at Deanei Forest Reserve
Deanei Forest Reserve hosts the threatened Blue Mountains Shalecap Forest, which gives its bushland significant conservation value. Mountain Blue Gums (Eucalyptus deanei) grow in the reserve and gave Springwood part of its name. Evening surveys at Deanei Forest Reserve have recorded ringtail possums, sugar gliders, brushtail possums, tawny frogmouths and Peron's tree frogs. Blue Mountains Council chose the reserve for a mass planting of at least 80 koala habitat and food trees by youth councillors and Winmalee Public School students.
Bushwalking Trails at Deanei Forest Reserve
Deanei Forest Reserve has bushwalking trails through blue gums, grey gums and Turpentine Forest. A walk through the reserve takes around 10 minutes, which suits a short bush break near Springwood. The reserve is a small gully beside the highway, so traffic noise is noticeable along the paths. Walkers can look out for birds, frogs, insects and mammals, all of which have been recorded in the reserve.
Bushcare at Deanei Forest Reserve
Deanei Forest Reserve has an active Bushcare group, the Deanei Reserve Bushcare Group, which restores the forest by weeding and replanting. The group's volunteers work to protect the reserve's remnant blue gum and Shale Cap Forest communities. In November 2025, Bushcare Blue Mountains ran a night-time fauna walk in Deanei Forest Reserve, led by Graham Turner, with twelve volunteers and local fauna experts.
Facilities at Deanei Forest Reserve
Visitor tips for Deanei Forest Reserve
- ✓Pack binoculars for spotting birds along the trails.
Getting to Deanei Forest Reserve
Lawson Road, Springwood NSW 2777. The Deanei Reserve Bushcare Group's address is Hawkesbury Road, Springwood NSW 2777. A small parking area is available for visitors.
Open in Google Maps →Frequently asked questions about Deanei Forest Reserve
How long is the walk at Deanei Forest Reserve?
The trails are short, taking roughly 10 minutes on foot.
Is there parking at Deanei Forest Reserve?
Yes, but only a small parking area, so spaces are limited.
Is Deanei Forest Reserve good for birdwatching?
Yes, 62 bird species have been recorded in the reserve.
Can I volunteer at Deanei Forest Reserve?
Yes, the Deanei Reserve Bushcare Group welcomes helpers for its weeding and replanting work.