Back to previous page
Print factsheet

Barren Grounds Nature Reserve

Open, check current alerts 

Visitor info

All the practical information you need to know about Barren Grounds Nature Reserve.

Getting there and parking

Get driving directions

Get directions

    From Moss Vale:

    • Take Illawarra Highway east towards Robertson
    • Just after Robertson, turn right onto Jamberoo Mountain Road.
    • Continue until you reach the signposted entrance on your right

    From Kiama:

    • Take Jamberoo Road heading west to Jamberoo
    • Turn left onto Jamberoo Mountain Road and follow it to the top of the escarpment
    • The reserve entrance is signposted on your left

    Park entry points

    Parking

    By bike

    Bicycles are not permitted on management or walking trails in this reserve.

    By public transport

    Barren Grounds Nature Reserve is not accessible by public transport.

    Best times to visit

    There are lots of great things waiting for you in Barren Grounds Nature Reserve. Here are some of the highlights.

    Autumn

    Enjoy spectacular views on a clear autumn day of the coastline and surrounds from Illawarra lookout.

    Spring

    Enjoy the colourful wildflower display in the reserve's upland heaths.

    Summer

    Escape the crowds on the coast for a peaceful picnic among nature.

    Winter

    Warm up with a brisk walk in the misty highlands and admire the flowering banksias.

    Weather, temperature and rainfall

    Summer temperature

    Average

    16°C and 5°C

    Highest recorded

    42.4°C

    Winter temperature

    Average

    8°C and 18°C

    Lowest recorded

    2.3°C

    Rainfall

    Wettest month

    March

    Driest month

    September

    The area’s highest recorded rainfall in one day

    728.4mm

    Facilities

    Toilets

    Maps and downloads

    Safety messages

    However you discover NSW national parks and reserves, we want you to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Our park and reserve systems contrast greatly so you need to be aware of the risks and take responsibility for your own safety and the safety of those in your care.

    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

    Camp fires and solid fuel burners

    Wood fires, campfires and heat bead cookers are prohibited in this reserve.

    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.

    Barren Grounds Nature Reserve

    Contact

    Visitor centre

    Links

    Nearby towns

    Jamberoo (11 km)

    If the kids are on board, take them to Jamberoo Action Park, where Billabong Beach, Rapid River and Outback Bay will keep them entertained for a whole day. Minnamurra Rainforest is also close by, with easy walks through the rainforest for the whole family to enjoy.

    www.visitnsw.com

    Robertson (17 km)

    Robertson is known as the 'green heart of the Highlands' for a good reason - it's always green. Rich, fertile soil and abundant rural farmland make up Robertson's scenic landscape. It serves as a gateway to some of the State's best waterfalls.

    www.visitnsw.com

    Kiama (22 km)

    A picturesque beachside town on the NSW South Coast, Kiama boasts several local and nearby attractions including the famous Kiama Blowhole, Jamberoo Action Park and Illawarra Fly. Enjoy whale watching during migration season while walking along Kiama Coast Walk, and visit the nearby Minnamurra Rainforest Centre in Budderoo National Park.

    www.visitnsw.com