Barren Grounds Nature Reserve — Attraction in Barren Grounds

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

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...

While cold, windy and wet, the walk was still beautiful and the tracks reasonably well maintained. Beware of snakes though, even during cold, wet and windy days. We came across a Highlands Copperhead lying out on rocks on the other side of an erosion mound on the...

As a trail runner this place is brilliant. Varying terrain and several different options to get a run in. Well maintained tracks and facilities, just make sure you bring...