Maclean Lookout is just two kilometres from the town centre on a good sealed road offering spectacular views of the coast, bushland, cane fields, river, islands and township. There are picnic tables and turn-around at the Lookout summit which coaches and caravans can easily negotiate. The reserve is a very popular site for people walking for pleasure and exercise and enjoying the open space and natural features.

The reserve has long been Maclean’s Scenic Lookout and is largely undisturbed with the exception of the cleared area surrounding the lookout, the area adjacent to the communications tower and the Pinnacle. Maclean Lookout Reserve has a high level of historical value in terms of being the site for the town Scenic Lookout where the community have traditionally enjoyed views of the Clarence River, Lake Wooloweyah and the hinterland.

The view from the Lookout gives a perspective of the flood plain, estuarine and coastal connection.