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Barren Grounds Nature Reserve

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Overview

Boasting spectacular views, amazing birdwatching and walking opportunities for all ages, Barren Grounds is perfect for a school excursion or family day out.

Read more about Barren Grounds Nature Reserve

Escape from the city for the day and immerse yourself in the unique and fragile landscape of Barren Grounds Nature Reserve. Almost completely encircled in rocky cliffs at the top of Jamberoo Pass, it has a wealth of birdlife and unique plant species. The heathland wildflowers burst with colour during spring.

With walks ranging from an easy 2km to a more challenging 20km, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Head to Illawarra lookout or Cooks Nose for magnificent views of the Illawarra coastline and surrounding countryside. Or head off on Griffiths walking track and spend the day in the bush.

Barren Grounds is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with around 180 different species of birds. Keep your binoculars and cameras handy to catch a photo of honeyeaters, southern emu wrens, crimson rosellas, cockatoos and grey currawongs. You might even spot a threatened ground parrot or eastern bristlebird.

 

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A family walk a boardwalk section of Bouddi coastal walk, Bouddi National Park. Photo: John Spencer/OEH.

General enquiries

  • National Parks Contact Centre
  • 7am to 7pm daily
  • 1300 072 757 (13000 PARKS) for the cost of a local call within Australia excluding mobiles

Contact

  • in the South Coast region
  • Barren Grounds Nature Reserve is always open but may have to close at times due to poor weather or fire danger.

    • Fitzroy Falls Visitor Centre
      02 4887 8270
      Contact hours: 9am to 4pm daily. Closed Christmas Day.
    • 1301 Nowra Road, Fitzroy Falls NSW 2577
    • Email: [email protected]
    More
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