Family recovering after NSW BBQ explosion

At least two adults are recovering in hospital after a barbecue exploded in the NSW southern highlands during a large family picnic.

The family was trying to light the barbecue at a picnic area in the Belanglo State Forest about 12.30pm on Sunday when the explosion occurred, injuring three adults and two children, police said.

One adult who sustained serious burns to his face and chest was airlifted to Concord Hospital, where he was in a satisfactory condition on Sunday night, a hospital spokeswoman told AAP.

One other adult, a 65-year-old man, was taken by road to Liverpool Hospital, where he was also reported stable on Sunday night.

Police said up to 20 extended family members were present at the picnic when the incident occurred.