Barren Grounds Nature Reserve
Barren Grounds Nature Reserve is a dog-friendly park in Barren Grounds.
Dog rules
Dogs must be kept on-leash and are only permitted on perimeter footpaths of public parks within the Kiama Municipal Council area. Dogs are not permitted in park interiors. Dogs are not permitted on beaches unless within a designated off-leash beach area, in Minnamurra River water areas, or in Crooked River. Dogs are not permitted within 10 metres of children's playgrounds or food preparation/consumption areas, or on active sports fields during organised sport. Dog faeces must be immediately removed and properly disposed of. Source: Kiama Municipal Council – Dog off-leash areas (kiama.nsw.gov.au/Services/Animals/Dog-off-leash-areas)
At a glance
Before you go
- 💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.
- 🌳No shade confirmed — take it easy on warmer days.
- 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.
What people say
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 Griffiths Trail.
Awesome spot for a short or long walk, watch out for the snakes though, saw three red bellies, and literally stood on one of them
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 bristlebird.
If you are a birder or a naturalist this place is amazing. If you are just a casual bushwalker I suggest go a bit further to the Fitzroy falls.
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How we know this
We check council regulations, official sources, and community reviews to verify dog access at every venue. Access may change — always check on-site signage. Something wrong or missing? Submit feedback. How it works.