Welcome to the last chapter in our series on wallet-friendly camping destinations across Australia. This time we’re turning our attention to Tasmania — the island jewel of the nation. If you’re after beautiful landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters and camping adventures that won’t empty your wallet, Tassie has plenty to offer.
If you missed the first (Northern Territory), second (Queensland part one, part two and part three), third (Western Australia), fourth (South Australia), fifth (Victoria part one and part two) and sixth (New South Wales part one and part two) instalments of this series, just hit the corresponding links to catch up. Otherwise, welcome to the seventh and final part where we’ll cover the best free and budget campsites of our country’s island state, Tasmania. If you’re after incredible natural scenery, bucket-list activities and a chance to glimpse the famous Tasmanian devil, then look no further than Tassie for your next camping adventure.
Tassie regions
Tasmania is renowned for its pristine wilderness, abundant native wildlife, rugged peaks and tranquil beaches. As Australia’s only island state, it’s divided into five distinct regions: Hobart and the South, Launceston and the North, North West, West Coast and East Coast.
Camping grounds
*FREEBIE* Cockle Creek Campground, Hobart and the South
This peaceful camping area is located in Recherche Bay, about two hours by car from Hobart. Surrounded by the stunning scenery of Pearl Rock, it’s a fantastic spot for fishing, snorkelling, 4WD exploring and hiking.
Whilst this campground is free, please be advised that a Parks Pass must be obtained from the Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service for entry to Tassie’s national parks. You can follow this link to get yours.
The campground operates on a first come, first served basis (10 sites) and is suitable for tents, camper trailers, vans and caravans. You will need to be self-sufficient as the only facilities are pit toilets.
Contact: 03 6121 7026
*FREEBIE* Jeanneret Beach Camping Area, East Coast
Positioned in the Bay of Fires Conservation Area, this tranquil site is a dream for those who enjoy remote coastal camping. It’s a 3.5-hour drive from Hobart and perfect for fishing, though caution is advised due to strong currents.
Stays are free and access is suitable for small vans, tents, compact caravans and camper trailers. The only facilities are toilets so you will need to bring all other essentials.
Contact: St Helens Visitor Information Centre and History Room on 03 6376 1744
Peppermint Campground, North West
Nestled within the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, this beachside site is teeming with natural beauty and native animals. It’s ideal for those who enjoy surfing, canoeing or wildlife spotting.
The cost is $15 per night per site (maximum six people) and facilities include toilets, showers, barbecues and dump point. There is no potable water.
This is a budget-friendly camping spot that is perfect for tent camping, however, there is limited access for RVs, caravans and campervans. Bookings are not required but camp fees must be paid to the governing Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service. While all conventional vehicles can access this campground, there are gravel roads and varying conditions in the area, so a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
Contact: 03 6457 1225
Caravan parks
Bridport Seaside Caravan Park, Launceston and the North
With its white sandy beaches and outdoor activities, Bridport is perfect for family-friendly camping. This park offers everything from unpowered sites to fully equipped cabins.
Facilities include a sheltered barbecue area, toilets, hot showers, camp kitchen, tennis court, kids’ playground and dump point. All RV types are welcome.
Contact: bridportcaravanpark.com.au or 03 6356 1227
Scamander Tourist Park, East Coast
A great base for exploring the Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park (Tassie Parks Pass required), this park is just three hours from Hobart by car. It offers both nature and comfort. Facilities include a camp kitchen, toilets, showers, playground, laundry facilities and dump point.
Contact: scamandertouristpark.com.au or 03 6372 5121
Zeehan Bush Camp, West Coast
This West Coast bush camp offers a rustic yet upgraded experience with glamping tents, tiny homes and cabins. Activities nearby include Montezuma Falls, Gordon River Cruise, King River Rafting and birdwatching. Camp facilities include free gas barbecues, free wi-fi, EV charging, shared bathrooms and firepits.
Contact: zeehanbushcamp.com.au or 03 6471 6633
Bush camps
*FREEBIE* Bronte Lagoon Bush Camping, Hobart and the South
This off-the-grid lakeside camp is located in Bronte Park, two hours from Hobart by car. No amenities are provided, so come prepared. This is a great spot from which to enjoy nearby Lake Binney, the lagoon itself and other bush-based activities. There are no facilities here so you will need to be 100% self-contained and 100% self-sufficient. If the weather has been wet or if rain is forecast, a 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended.
Contact: 1300 360 441
*FREEBIE* Policemans Point Camping Area, East Coast
Tucked away on Tassie’s northeastern tip, this bush camp offers peace and natural beauty far from the crowds. The area offers fabulous fishing, boating, swimming and birdwatching. It is accessible by all conventional vehicles, however, a 4WD is advised. The bush camp itself is suitable for tents, campervans, motorhomes, caravans and camper trailers, and being a true bush camp means there is nothing in the way of facilities apart from toilets. Accordingly, campers must be fully self-contained. There is also no booking system for this free bush camp.
Contact: 03 6376 1744
*FREEBIE* Sandy Cape Campground, North West
Located in the Arthur-Pieman area, this remote spot offers stunning views of the Southern Ocean and rich cultural history. There are no facilities so you will need to be fully self-contained and self-sufficient including drinking water supplies. This campground is accessible to all vehicles, but roads can be challenging so a 4WD vehicle is recommended. Tent camping, campervans and camper trailers are welcome here.
Overnight rest areas
We include this section with the caveat that Rest Areas exist to help manage driver fatigue, not drive when tired and in doing so, hopefully not add your number to the road toll. Here at A247 Gear, we acknowledge that Rest Areas are not camping areas; they are safe areas beside the road where motorists can pull over off the roadway to rest. Be sure not to stop in any heavy vehicle rest areas; these are exclusively for commercial heavy vehicles (and no, your motorhome does not count) and it is illegal for general and recreational vehicles to use them. If you are looking for somewhere to set up for multiple nights, don’t do so in a Rest Area. It is neither designed to be, nor is it capable of being, a camping area or a caravan park.
*FREEBIE* Beaconsfield Showground Rest Area, Launceston and the North
Convenient for short stays, this free rest stop in Beaconsfield is close to Launceston and Devonport. Tents are prohibited. Access is for vehicles only and a 5pm to 9am stay limit applies. There are toilets and rubbish bins.
*FREEBIE* Kempton Rest Area, Hobart and the South
This is a large rest area just 45 minutes north of Hobart which allows 48-hour stays. Facilities include barbecues, rubbish bins, picnic area, toilets, water, dump point and playground. The area is accessible to motorhomes, camper trailers and caravans only. Tents are prohibited.
The Pondering Frog RV Stop, East Coast
Located near Bicheno, this charming overnight rest stop includes a café and licensed restaurant, and it offers donations-based camping for self-contained travellers. Facilities include toilets, water, rubbish bins, picnic tables and kids’ playground.
This RV stop is only suitable for fully self-contained travellers (with toilet, shower and wastewater storage) in campervans, caravans and motorhomes. Bookings are not accepted so this RV stopover area operates on a first come, first served basis.
Contact: ponderingfrog.com.au or 0412 631 299
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Main image: Tasmania is home to the impressive Mount Wellington at 1271 metres above sea level (Credit: Getty Images)
