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Baal Bone Gap picnic area

Gardens of Stone National Park

Affected by closures, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about the Baal Bone Gap picnic area.

Getting there and parking

Baal Bone Gap is in the Ben Bullen precinct of gardens of Stone National Park. To get there:

  • From Lithgow, follow Castlereagh Highway north to Ben Bullen.
  • Turn right onto the 4WD road to Baal Bone Gap

Road quality

Baal Bone Gap picnic area is suitable for high clearance 4WD vehicles only. There are large ruts and washed out sections in Ben Bullen State Forest that are not suitable for low clearance vehicles.

  • Unsealed roads

Vehicle access

  • All roads require 4WD vehicle

Weather restrictions

  • Dry weather only

Parking

Limited parking is available at Baal Bone Gap picnic area.

Best times to visit

There are lots of great things waiting for you in Gardens of Stone National Park. Here are some of the highlights.

Spring

Experience the wonder of the spring bird migrations and enjoy the flowering season for many of the plant species of the park.

Summer

Though you need to be prepared for hot weather, this can be a great time to explore the pagodas as deep shade falls between them and in the canyons, making for dramatic photographs.

Winter

The light in the mountains is beautiful in winter. Take crystal clear scenic photos from your vantage point on the cliff tops or just marvel at how far you can see from up here.

Weather, temperature and rainfall

Summer temperature

Average

8°C and 25°C

Winter temperature

Average

0°C and 9°C

Rainfall

Wettest month

January

Driest month

April

The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

135mm

Facilities

Picnic tables

Barbecue facilities

  • Wood barbecues (bring your own firewood)
  • Fire rings (bring your own firewood)

Carpark

Maps and downloads

You’ll need topographic maps and a compass or a GPS.

Safety messages

This park is in a remote location, so please make sure you’re well-prepared, bring appropriate clothing and equipment and advise a family member or friend of your travel plans.

Bushwalking safety

If you're keen to head out on a longer walk or a backpack camp, always be prepared. Read these bushwalking safety tips before you set off on a walking adventure in national parks.

  • Bushwalking from Baal Bone Gap should only be undertaken by experienced bushwalkers.
  • You’ll need topographic maps and a compass or a GPS.

Fire safety

During periods of fire weather, the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service may declare a total fire ban for particular NSW fire areas, or statewide. Learn more about total fire bans and fire safety.

Mobile safety

Dial Triple Zero (000) in an emergency. Download the Emergency Plus app before you visit, it helps emergency services locate you using your smartphone's GPS. Please note there is limited mobile phone reception in this park and you’ll need mobile reception to call Triple Zero (000).

Prohibited

Pets

Pets and domestic animals (other than certified assistance animals) are not permitted. Find out which regional parks allow dog walking and see the pets in parks policy for more information.

Smoking

NSW national parks are no smoking areas.

Baal Bone Gap picnic area

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