MCPHERSON STATE FOREST

Public BBQ

McPherson State Forest's Mangrove Creek Dam Picnic Area emerges from its bushfire resurrection with impressive grace. The council's restoration efforts have created something rather special - a viewing platform that frames the dam's expanse while free gas barbecues (four of them, no less) handle the serious business of lunch. The information centre proves surprisingly engaging, though one suspects the real education happens outdoors where lace monitors casually patrol the observation decks, utterly unbothered by picnicking families. The renovated facilities strike that rare balance between functionality and charm. Toilets include accessible options, picnic tables spread generously across the grounds, and the fenced viewing area offers multiple photo opportunities without the usual tourist scrum. A small playground keeps younger visitors occupied, though shade becomes precious currency on sweltering summer days when the breeze takes leave. The drive itself rewards with scenery, and parking proves adequate - two small miracles in recreational planning. Those stunning dam views, unchanged by renovation, remain the area's trump card.

Click or tap map to make it interactive
Address
Mangrove Dam Rd, Mogo Creek NSW
View on Google Maps
Nearby Features
  Toilets
  Picnic tables
  Shaded area
  Parking
BBQ Photos
No recent photos.

Please help the next public BBQ enthusiast by uploading a fresh photo of the BBQ spot! Or leave a review below.

Address
Mangrove Dam Rd, Mogo Creek NSW
View on Google Maps
Nearby Features
  Toilets
  Picnic tables
  Shaded area
  Parking
Suggestions? Feedback?

Scroll up and click on BBQ StreetView. It will visually show you the location of at least one BBQ in the area. Larger parks will generally have several BBQs scattered around in various spots.

Check out our How To Find a Public BBQ guide for more help.

Generally No! The BBQs are first come, first serve. However, if you plan on having a larger event then please check with Central Coast (NSW) council.

Come prepared with the right essentials, and you'll enjoy a fun day of barbecuing in MCPHERSON STATE FOREST. For more information, check out our What to Bring to a Public BBQ guide.

Aussie public BBQs are simple to use. Majority of sites listed on this website are gas or electric BBQs. Simply press the button and it will turn on for a set amount of time (10-20 minutes).

We do also list wood fired BBQs on this site, so check the above descriptions and photos to be prepared.

Check out our How To Use Public BBQ Guide for further information.

Did you turn it on properly? Check out our How to Use Public BBQ guide.

If you are convinced that the BBQ has issues, then contact Central Coast (NSW) council and let them know it's faulty.

You should first check with Central Coast (NSW) council about the rules and restrictions.

Generally, it is permissible to utilize your own gas BBQ, provided it remains under continuous supervision. However, the usage of Charcoal BBQ's is typically restricted, with the exception of parks equipped with designated charcoal disposal bins.

Check out our guide on Portable BBQs in Aussie Parks and Beaches for more information.