Illawarra Lookout Walking Track

Attraction
Illawarra lookout walk, Barren Grounds Nature Reserve. Photo: John Spencer/NSW Government
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Park alerts

Barren Grounds Nature Reserve

1 current alert · Checked 13 Oct 2026, 8:05 am

  • Other planned eventsUntil 13 Jan 2027

    1080 fox ground baiting program

    NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is conducting a continual and ongoing 1080 ground baiting program for the control of foxes from Monday 13 July 2026 to Wednesday 13 January 2027.

    The program targets target foxes in the Carrington Falls, Budderoo Plateau, Knights Hill and Barren Grounds areas. Bait stations are located on NPWS estate and Crown road reserves with permissions. Both buried baits and Canid Pest Ejectors are used in this program.

    The program is designed to minimise predator impacts on wildlife, particularly the threatened species within these areas.

    1080 baiting signs are at all entries to the baiting location. Don’t touch baits or ejector devices.

    Domestic pets are not permitted in NSW National Parks managed lands. Pets and working dogs may be affected (1080 is lethal to cats and dogs). Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled in the vicinity and must not enter the baiting location. In the event of accidental poisoning seek immediate veterinary assistance.

    Penalties apply for non-compliance. For more information, contact the NPWS Fitzroy Falls office on 02 4887 8244 or send an email.

About

Don’t have much time, but want to discover the wonders of this fragile environment? A walk to Illawarra lookout is a must, with spectacular views, colourful spring wildflowers and amazing birdlife.

Starting from Barren Grounds picnic area, this short trail moves along an undulating path through woodland and heath. Before you know it, you’ll arrive at Illawarra lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment looking down across the hinterland, rolling green hills, and the stunning coastline.

Breathe in the fresh air, take in the spectacular views, then wander back to the picnic area for a relaxing lunch and a hot cuppa.

Along the way, you might spot an echidna waddling across the track, and you’re bound to see an abundance of birdlife. You'll be walking through the prime habitat of ground parrots and eastern bristlebirds, so keep an eye out for these threatened birds.

Barren Grounds Nature Reserve · South Coast

This short walk offers an easy way for all ages to experience the spectacular views, colourful wildflowers and amazing birdlife on a day trip to Barren Grounds Nature Reserve.

Difficulty
Grade 3 · Moderate
Distance
2km return
Time
30min - 1hr
Accessibility
Medium

Plan your walk

Access, facilities and practical details.

Frequently asked questions

6 questions

Get in touch

Park office

02 4887 8270

Where you'll be

Barren Grounds Road

Jamberoo NSW 2533