Bald Rock National Park is situated 29 kilometres north of Tenterfield on the
Northern Tablelands of NSW. The park is 7500 hectares (18,500 acres) in area.
The dominant feature is the largest granite rock in Australia. Two tracks lead
to the summit of Bald Rock. One goes straight up the rock and the other
(easier) track traverses the bush, which surrounds the rock. We not recommend
the direct route during summer because the rock radiates a tremendous amount
of heat. The alternative track is more interesting because it passes through a
sample of the park’s vegetation. Along the track are large granite boulders
and these provide a niche for some interesting plants. Large clumps of Rock
Lilies (Dendrobium speciosum), Hare’s Foot Fern (Davallia pyxidata)
and Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium australasicum) grow on the boulders.
The view from the summit is breath taking. Phebalium ambiens a relative
of the boronias grows near the summit. This rare species is a tall shrub with
unusual large, stem-clasping, aromatic leaves. There are picnic areas and a
camping area near the base of Bald Rock. Boonoo Boonoo National Park is just
down the road.