State forests in the Gympie surrounds of Queensland offer travelers a chance to explore diverse ecosystems and enjoy various outdoor activities. Two notable state forests in the area are the Amamoor State Forest and Forest Reserve and the Brooyar State Forest. The Amamoor State Forest and Forest Reserve is a riverine rainforest in the Gympie Region, characterized by subtropical vegetation. Dominant tree species include Melia azedarach (white cedar), Toona ciliata (red cedar), Araucaria cunninghamii (hoop pine), and A. bidwillii (Bunya pine). The Amamoor Creek, which runs through the reserve, is a habitat for the platypus and several species of fish. The Brooyar State Forest, located northwest of Gympie, features sandstone cliffs and scenic forests. The camping area lies in the hills between Widgee and Glastonbury. The forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the Gympie messmate (Eucalyptus cloeziana), a large hardwood tree that can grow up to 50 meters high and 2 meters in diameter.
While visiting these state forests, travelers should be cautious of the Gympie gympie, a toxic plant native to the area. The whole plant is covered with hairs made of silica and filled with venom, making it one of the most toxic types of stinging plants in Australia.