Canoeing
Canoeing is one of the main attractions of the Biblins. We have our own launch point at the upstream end of the site, less than half a mile from Symonds Yat Rapids. Biblins is also a good overnight camp for those canoe camping on the Wye.
For novices, or at times of high water the Site Manager can help you book a local lake. Sorry but canoes are not available for hire on site but there are several local canoe hire companies.
Walking
There are a number of way marked paths in the Forest. The Wye Valley Walk goes through the site. Leaflets are also available for the Ramblers Association Highmeadow Trail through the woodlands above Biblins, and Forestry Commission trails at Symonds Yat and in the main Forest of Dean. The site manager holds limited stocks of leaflets which are also available from Forestry Commission sites.
Orienteering
There is a beginners orienteering course on site, a range of courses on the southern side of the river, and a Wayfaring Course for all abilities starting on the Gloucestershire bank of the river. Ask the manager for more details.
Climbing
There is a small crag behind the main toilet block on the site suitable for a group of novices. This needs to be booked with the site manager. There are other more adventurous pitches at Symonds Yat within walking distance of the site. Please consult the Symonds Yat Climber’s Club Guide.
Please note that the site cannot provide climbing instruction.
Cycling
Cycling is allowed on stoned forest roads in the Forest of Dean. Just across the bridge at Biblins is the Sustrans Peregrine Path that runs form Monmouth to Symonds Yat along the river bank. A few miles away in the main block of the Forest of Dean there are cycle trails of different grades, including the 10 mile circular Family Cycle Trail and a popular single track route. Cycles are available to hire from Pedalabikeaway Cycle Centre
New for 2011
Basic Bushcraft
By midsummer, a new wild camping area will be up and running. It will be carefully monitored for impact and "leave no trace" policy, but those qualified are welcome to hire the area. Alternatively, book a bushcraft course with the site warden.
Forest School
Interest in Forest School activities and ethos of learner lead play is growing among our visitors. Those qualified will be pleased to learn that we have a number of activity sites that, through bookable are free to use for our site visitors. Activities can be booked via the site office and are chargeable.
John Muir Awards
The staff at Biblins have excellent experience in delivering or facilitating John Muir Awards. For a small administration and induction fee, why not add this educational conservation certificate to your list of outdoor activities while here on residential or repeated visits. Contact the site warden for information or follow the link to John Muir Awards.
Other activities
Biblins Quiz – a good introduction to the site, available from the site manager.
Problem Solving and Team Building – instructed by the site manager, fee applies, please ask for a leaflet.
Environmental Activities/Cub, Scout, Guide Badges – contact the site manager, small fee applies.
Education sessions in the Forest of Dean can be booked with the Forestry Commission Education ranger (01594 833057)
Activity providers
The site manager can provide groups booking the site with a list of Activity Providers licensed to operate on Forestry Commission land, or a list of providers can be obtained from the local Tourist Information Centre, 01594 812388.
Please note
Adventurous activities have an element of risk and it is the responsibility of the Group leader/organiser to ensure that their staff/instructors/company have the necessary qualifications; provide a risk assessment, comply with national legislation and the requirements of their own governing body.
