Forest news and events
Find out about forest closures and other news about public forests and country parks in Northern Ireland.
Vehicle permits
Annual vehicle permits for 2023/24 are available for sale from Tuesday 21 March.
Permits can be bought by contacting Forest Service on 028 6634 3165, or in person from the Ranger Hut in Tollymore Forest Park.
Ballyboley timber harvesting
Timber harvesting work started in Ballyboley Forest in late August 2022. The work includes harvesting, extraction and haulage, and is expected to continue until March 2023.
Forest Service asks all users to follow the safety signage on site.
Forest recreation charges
On event days, some charges apply to particular forests. There are also charges for the use of extra facilities in some forests - these apply to vehicles, people and to some activities and organised events.
You can get details of concessions for charities and community groups, caravanning and camping at this link:
Report wildlife sightings online
In Northern Ireland, the Centre for Environmental Data and Recording (CEDaR) collates wildlife records for both native and non-native species.
You can record your sightings on its website either as a single record event or you can register with them and send details through a free online account.
Over 100 forests to explore
Northern Ireland has over 100 public forests you can visit. They’re great places for walking, exercising dogs, running, orienteering. In some you can organise events, go camping, caravanning, picnicking or horse riding. Find out more: