Top 10 Best Campsites Tasmania: The 2025 Ultimate Guide

Tasmania, a land of rugged wilderness, pristine coastlines, and ancient forests, offers some of Australia's most spectacular camping experiences. From the iconic peaks of Cradle Mountain to the fiery shores of the Bay of Fires, choosing the perfect spot can be as challenging as it is exciting. This guide is designed to cut through the noise, providing a definitive list of the best campsites Tasmania has to offer. We'll delve into what makes each location unique, covering everything from essential facilities and booking requirements to insider tips that will help you make the most of your adventure.

Our curated selection provides detailed, actionable insights for every type of traveller. Whether you're a seasoned bushwalker seeking remote solitude in the Walls of Jerusalem, a family looking for a comfortable base at Freycinet National Park, or a mountain biker ready to hit the trails at Blue Derby, you'll find what you need here. We provide practical information on what to pack, the best seasons to visit, and how to secure your spot in these sought-after locations.

Prepare to pack your tent, roll out your swag, and discover the untamed beauty of Tasmania, one incredible campsite at a time. As you plan your trip, it's also crucial to be aware of any specific rules that might apply to activities beyond camping in these protected areas. For instance, if you're hoping to capture aerial footage, familiarise yourself with the regulations for flying drones in national parks before you go. This guide ensures you're fully prepared for an unforgettable Tassie camping adventure, covering everything from logistics to local secrets.

1. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park Camping

For an iconic Tasmanian wilderness experience, it's hard to look past Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. Situated in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this park offers some of the most dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes in Australia. Camping here places you on the doorstep of ancient rainforests, glacial lakes, and rugged mountain peaks, including the famous Cradle Mountain itself. It’s undeniably one of the best campsites Tasmania has to offer for those seeking pure, unfiltered nature.

The main campground at the northern end of the park, Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain, provides powered and unpowered sites for tents, campervans, and caravans. This serves as an ideal base for tackling the world-renowned Overland Track or exploring the numerous day walks, such as the Dove Lake Circuit or the climb to Marion's Lookout. The park's global reputation means it's a bustling hub for international and local adventurers alike, all drawn by the promise of pristine wilderness often featured in nature documentaries.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

Preparation is key to a successful trip to Cradle Mountain. The alpine weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change in an instant, even in summer. Always pack layers of warm, waterproof clothing.

• Book Ahead: Campsites, especially during the peak season from spring to autumn, are in high demand. It is essential to book your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Arrive Stocked Up: While there is a small general store, options are limited and can be expensive. It's wise to bring all your food and essential supplies with you.
• Wildlife Encounters: The area is famous for its resident wombats, pademelons, and Bennett's wallabies, which are often seen grazing near the campground in the late afternoon. Keep an eye out for the elusive Tasmanian devil, especially after dusk.

For a quick overview, this summary box highlights the essential planning details for your visit.

This data underscores the importance of planning your trip for the warmer months and securing your booking early to experience the park's incredible wildlife.

2. Freycinet National Park Camping

For an iconic coastal camping experience, Freycinet National Park is an absolute must. Located on Tasmania’s breathtaking east coast, this park is celebrated for its dramatic pink granite peaks, secluded bays, white-sand beaches, and the world-famous Wineglass Bay. Camping here places you right on the edge of this coastal paradise, offering direct access to some of Australia's most photographed and cherished landscapes. Its combination of stunning scenery and accessible adventures makes it one of the best campsites Tasmania has for beach lovers and hikers alike.

The main powered and unpowered campsites are located at Richardsons Beach, offering coveted beachfront spots with spectacular views across the bay towards the Hazards mountain range. This location is an ideal base for exploring the park's wonders, from the short walk to the Wineglass Bay lookout to more strenuous hikes like the Hazards Beach Circuit or Mount Amos climb. The park's global reputation, heavily featured in tourism campaigns and on countless travel blogs, draws visitors from around the world, making it a vibrant hub for families, couples, and solo adventurers.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A successful trip to Freycinet relies heavily on advance planning, especially for camping. The coastal weather can be windy, so come prepared for all conditions.

• Book Months Ahead: The campsites at Freycinet are allocated via an annual ballot system for the peak summer period (Christmas to early February) and Easter. For other times, you must book well in advance, often months ahead, as spots are extremely limited and in high demand.
• Arrive Early for Walks: To experience the Wineglass Bay lookout without the crowds, start your walk early in the morning. This also helps you avoid the midday sun on the exposed track.
• Be Sun and Wind Smart: The Tasmanian sun can be harsh. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and consider bringing a windbreak for your campsite, as the sea breeze can be persistent.
• Water Activities: The water is crystal-clear but chilly. If you plan on swimming or snorkelling, consider a wetsuit. Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment.

3. Bay of Fires Conservation Area

For a quintessential Tasmanian coastal escape, the Bay of Fires Conservation Area is an absolute must-visit. Stretching from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point on the state's northeast coast, this region is world-famous for its dramatic scenery: brilliant white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and granite boulders ablaze with orange lichen. Camping here offers a front-row seat to one of Australia's most photographed coastlines.

Unlike a single designated campground, the Bay of Fires offers a series of free camping areas scattered along the coast, primarily accessed via The Gardens Road. Popular spots like Jeanneret Beach and Sloop Reef provide sheltered sites among the coastal scrub, just steps from the sand. This setup makes it one of the best campsites Tasmania offers for beach lovers and those seeking a more rustic, self-sufficient experience. The area's stunning beauty has made it a favourite for landscape photographers and has been featured in numerous tourism campaigns, cementing its iconic status. You can discover more about the Bay of Fires Conservation Area to plan your visit.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A successful trip to the Bay of Fires relies on self-sufficiency, as facilities are minimal. The raw, untouched beauty is the main draw, but it requires careful preparation.

• Bring Water and Supplies: There is no drinking water available at the campsites, and no shops within the conservation area. You must bring all your water, food, and other essentials with you from a nearby town like St Helens.
• Check Road Conditions: The main access roads are generally suitable for 2WD vehicles and caravans, but some of the smaller tracks leading to specific campsites can be sandy or rough. Always check conditions before you go.
• Pack for Four Seasons: Even on a warm day, coastal winds can pick up, and evenings can get surprisingly cool. Pack layers, including a warm jacket and waterproof gear, to stay comfortable.
• Optimal Lighting: For the best photos of the iconic orange lichen, aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the colours truly pop against the granite.
• Respect the Environment: These are conservation areas, so stick to designated tracks, take all your rubbish with you, and adhere to any fire restrictions, which are common in summer.

4. Mount Field National Park Camping

For an easily accessible yet deeply rewarding wilderness experience, Mount Field National Park offers a remarkable diversity of scenery just a 90-minute drive from Hobart. This park is a place of contrasts, where you can wander through lush, temperate rainforests with some of the world's tallest flowering plants in the morning and explore sub-alpine moorlands in the afternoon. Its spectacular waterfalls, ancient trees, and stunning seasonal displays make it one of the best campsites Tasmania has for year-round natural beauty.

Camping within the park at the Mount Field Campground places you right beside the Tyenna River, surrounded by towering swamp gums and man-ferns. It’s an ideal base for exploring the park’s two distinct sections. The lower valley is home to the famous three-tiered Russell Falls, while the upper section around Lake Dobson offers a true alpine experience, complete with ski tows in winter. This accessibility and variety make it a favoured destination for day-trippers, nature photographers, and families alike.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A visit to Mount Field requires planning for its distinct microclimates. The weather at the base of the mountain can be completely different from the conditions up at Lake Dobson, so preparing for all possibilities is essential.

• Photography Pro Tip: To capture the best images of the iconic Russell Falls, visit early in the morning. You’ll avoid the crowds and get softer, more even light before the sun gets too high.
• Check Road Conditions: If you plan to visit the alpine region around Lake Dobson in winter, always check the road conditions beforehand. The road can be subject to ice and snow, and carrying chains is often mandatory.
• Layer Your Clothing: The alpine environment means weather can change rapidly. Pack multiple layers, including a waterproof and windproof outer jacket, even on a sunny day.
• Seasonal Beauty: The park is famous for the turning of the Fagus (Deciduous Beech) in late April to early May, a spectacular display of autumn colour that is rare in Australia.

5. Southwest National Park – Cockle Creek

For adventurers seeking the ultimate edge-of-the-world experience, Cockle Creek offers a gateway to Tasmania’s rugged and untamed Southwest National Park. As the southernmost point you can drive to in Australia, camping here feels like standing at the precipice of civilisation. The area provides access to the vast Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, making it a revered spot for serious bushwalkers and those wanting to disconnect completely amidst dramatic coastal scenery and pristine beaches.

The campground itself is basic, providing a free, unpowered setting for tents and campervans right where the road ends. It serves as the starting or finishing point for the formidable multi-day South Coast Track, an expedition often featured in wilderness survival documentaries. Even for those not tackling the epic trek, the area offers stunning day walks, such as the track to South Cape Bay, which rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the Southern Ocean. For its sheer remoteness and access to true wilderness, Cockle Creek is undeniably one of the best campsites Tasmania offers the intrepid traveller.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A trip to Cockle Creek is not one to be taken lightly; its isolation is both its main attraction and its greatest challenge. Meticulous planning is essential for a safe and memorable visit, as you are far from any services.

• Be Completely Self-Sufficient: There are no shops, no fuel, and no potable water available. You must bring everything you will need for your entire stay, including all food, water, cooking fuel, and other supplies.
• Safety First: The weather can change violently and without warning. Pack for all conditions, including wet weather gear and warm layers, regardless of the season. Always inform someone of your travel plans and expected return date, and carry an emergency communication device like a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
• Check Road Conditions: The final section of the road to Cockle Creek is unsealed. It is crucial to check the road status before you depart, especially after heavy rain, to ensure it is passable for your vehicle.

6. Maria Island National Park Camping

For a truly unique Tasmanian escape that blends history, wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery, Maria Island National Park is an unforgettable choice. This vehicle-free island, accessible only by ferry from Triabunna on the east coast, offers a camping experience unlike any other. You'll be pitching your tent amongst World Heritage-listed convict ruins, sharing the landscape with an incredible density of wildlife, and waking up to the sound of waves on pristine beaches. It is undoubtedly one of the best campsites Tasmania has for a secluded and nature-focused adventure.

The main Darlington Campground is situated just a short walk from the ferry jetty, set on grassy flats near the historic convict settlement. The unpowered sites are suitable for tents, and basic facilities like toilets and untreated rainwater are provided. This location serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the island’s highlights, from the dramatic Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs to hikes up Bishop and Clerk. Its status as an "ark" for threatened species makes it a dream for wildlife photographers and nature lovers, who come to see wombats, Cape Barren geese, and Tasmanian devils in a protected, natural setting.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A trip to Maria Island requires careful planning, as you must be completely self-sufficient. Its isolation is part of its charm, but it means you need to bring everything with you and take everything back.

• Bookings Are Essential: Both your campsite and your ferry ticket must be booked well in advance, particularly during school holidays and the summer months. Ferry spots can fill up quickly.
• Pack Smart: As you'll be carrying all your gear, pack light but don't forget essentials. Bring a durable tent, warm sleeping gear, and all your food. A portable water filter or treatment tablets are highly recommended.
• Abundant Wildlife: Wombats are everywhere and are not shy. Store your food securely in your tent or a wildlife-proof container to prevent them from staging a midnight raid on your supplies. Always observe animals from a respectful distance.

For more detailed information on getting there and what to expect, you can learn more about visiting Maria Island with this comprehensive guide.

7. Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails Camping

For adrenaline junkies and cycling enthusiasts, Blue Derby offers a camping experience unlike any other in Tasmania. Located in the temperate rainforest of the state's northeast, this area has transformed from a historic tin mining town into a world-class mountain biking destination. Camping here means you are literally metres away from over 125 kilometres of purpose-built trails, making it a contender for one of the best campsites Tasmania offers for active travellers.

The main campsite, located in the heart of Derby, provides free, unpowered sites on a first-come, first-served basis, though a small donation is encouraged to help maintain the facilities. This central location provides direct trail access and is just a short stroll from local cafes, bike hire shops, and pubs. The entire town buzzes with the energy of riders from around the globe, drawn by its reputation, which has been featured in international mountain biking magazines and as a host for Enduro World Series events.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A trip to Blue Derby is all about the ride, so planning around your biking needs is crucial for a great stay. The trails cater to all skill levels, from gentle riverside loops to technical black-diamond runs.

• Check Event Schedules: Blue Derby hosts major mountain biking events throughout the year. While the atmosphere is electric, campsites and trails become extremely crowded. Book any paid accommodation well in advance or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons.
• Be Bike Ready: While there are excellent bike shops in town, it's wise to bring essential spares, tools, and a first-aid kit. Trail conditions can vary, so always check the official Blue Derby website for any closures or warnings before you head out.
• Embrace the Community: The local community is built around mountain biking. Don’t hesitate to chat with fellow riders at the local pub or bike wash station for the latest trail tips and conditions. For a deeper dive into what makes this location special, you can learn more about mountain biking in Tasmania.

For a quick overview, this summary box highlights the essential planning details for your visit.

This data highlights the year-round appeal of Blue Derby, but underscores the need to plan around major events and be prepared for a more rugged camping experience.

8. Bruny Island Camping

A short ferry ride from Kettering, south of Hobart, Bruny Island offers a perfect blend of gourmet indulgence and rugged natural beauty. Camping here allows you to explore stunning coastlines, taste world-class local produce, and spot unique wildlife, all in one compact and accessible destination. From sheltered forest sites to beachfront spots with sweeping ocean views, Bruny provides some of the best campsites Tasmania has for those who appreciate both nature and nurture.

The island is effectively two landmasses joined by a narrow isthmus called 'The Neck', and camping options are scattered across both North and South Bruny. The most popular spots, like Captain Cook Holiday Park and the national park campgrounds at Cloudy Bay, place you moments from sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. These sites serve as fantastic bases for exploring local attractions, from climbing the stairs at The Neck Lookout to joining a wilderness cruise to see the spectacular 'Breathing Rock' and seal colonies. The island’s reputation as a foodie paradise makes it a favourite for gourmet travellers and families alike.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

Planning is crucial for a smooth trip to Bruny Island, as everything revolves around the ferry schedule and the island’s limited services. Remember to book your vehicle ferry pass in advance, especially during holidays or weekends.

• Combine Bookings: It’s often easiest to book your ferry ticket and campsite simultaneously to ensure availability for both, particularly during the busy summer months.
• Explore the Food Trail: Don't miss the island's famous food trail. Sample artisanal cheese from Bruny Island Cheese Co., fresh oysters from Get Shucked, and local honey. Plan your route to visit these producers.
• Wildlife Spotting: Bruny Island is one of the best places in Tasmania to see white wallabies. Look for them in the bushland around the Adventure Bay entrance to South Bruny National Park. Penguins can also be seen at The Neck at dusk.
• Check Ferry Times: Always double-check the last ferry departure time for your return journey to the mainland. Missing it means an unplanned overnight stay. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.

9. Walls of Jerusalem National Park

For the seasoned bushwalker seeking true solitude and a challenging alpine adventure, the Walls of Jerusalem National Park is a definitive destination. This remote wilderness area, located in the central highlands, is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and offers a landscape of breathtaking, raw beauty. Its name comes from the dramatic dolerite peaks and glacial-carved valleys that evoke the imagery of ancient, walled cities, making it a powerful and humbling place to camp.

Unlike more developed sites, camping here is a primitive, self-sufficient affair. There are designated camping areas with basic platforms at Wild Dog Creek and Dixons Kingdom, but no facilities beyond a toilet. This is walk-in camping only, requiring hikers to carry all their gear, food, and shelter. The reward for this effort is unparalleled immersion in a pristine environment, surrounded by thousand-year-old pencil pines, unique alpine flora, and a profound sense of isolation. It's truly one of the best campsites Tasmania offers for experienced adventurers.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

A trip to the Walls of Jerusalem requires meticulous planning and a high degree of self-reliance. The environment is as unforgiving as it is beautiful, and a successful visit hinges on being thoroughly prepared for alpine conditions.

• Experience is Non-Negotiable: This is not a location for beginner hikers. You should have proven experience in multi-day, off-track bushwalking, navigation, and camping in unpredictable weather before attempting a trip here.
• Safety is Paramount: Access roads can be rough, and a 4WD vehicle is often recommended. Always carry a map, compass, GPS, and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). Leave a detailed itinerary with a reliable contact.
• Pack for All Seasons: Alpine weather is notoriously volatile. Snow can fall at any time of year. Your gear must include high-quality waterproof layers, thermal clothing, and a four-season tent to handle potential blizzards, high winds, and freezing temperatures.
• Tread Lightly: The fragile alpine ecosystem is extremely sensitive. Stick to marked tracks where they exist, camp on designated platforms or durable surfaces, and practice strict Leave No Trace principles to preserve this unique wilderness.

10. Strahan and West Coast Camping

For a journey into Tasmania's rugged and storied West Coast, camping in Strahan offers a unique blend of wild nature and rich history. This historic harbour town is the gateway to the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and the wider Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Camping here puts you in a prime position to explore vast, untouched rainforests, cruise the serene Gordon River, and uncover the region's fascinating, and often harsh, convict and mining heritage. It is a must-visit for anyone seeking an experience that feels truly remote and steeped in character.

The main options for camping are conveniently located near the town, such as the Strahan Beach Tourist Park, which offers powered and unpowered sites with excellent amenities. These sites serve as a perfect base for embarking on the famous Gordon River cruise, a journey through pristine wilderness that has remained unchanged for millennia. Strahan is also a starting point for exploring nearby attractions like the wild Ocean Beach, the historic mining town of Queenstown, or taking a ride on the West Coast Wilderness Railway. It’s one of the best campsites Tasmania offers for combining adventure with historical discovery.

Key Considerations and Insider Tips

The West Coast is renowned for its high rainfall and unpredictable weather, so being prepared is essential for a comfortable trip. Even on a clear day, conditions can change rapidly.

• Book Your Cruise Early: The Gordon River cruises are incredibly popular and are the highlight for many visitors. Secure your tickets well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee a spot.
• Pack for All Weather: Waterproof and windproof gear is non-negotiable, regardless of the season. Layers are your best friend, allowing you to adapt to sudden drops in temperature or unexpected downpours.
• Explore Beyond the Harbour: While the cruises are a major drawcard, take time to drive to Zeehan to visit its mining museum or tackle the winding road to Queenstown for a glimpse into its dramatic copper mining past.
• Embrace the Pace: The West Coast operates on its own time. Allow for potential weather delays in your itinerary and take the opportunity to slow down, perhaps by sampling fresh local seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Top 10 Tasmania Campsites Comparison

Your Tasmanian Camping Adventure Awaits

Tasmania’s allure isn't just in its world-renowned hiking trails or its gourmet food scene; it lies in the quiet moments found only in the wild. Our journey through the best campsites Tasmania has to offer has showcased a spectacular spectrum of possibilities, from the dramatic dolerite peaks of Cradle Mountain to the serene, white-sanded shores of the Bay of Fires. We’ve explored options for every adventurer, whether you seek the family-friendly amenities of Mount Field or the rugged, self-sufficient challenge of the Walls of Jerusalem.

The key takeaway from this extensive guide is that the perfect Tasmanian camping trip is a blend of personal preference and meticulous preparation. The freedom to wake up to the sound of waves at Cockle Creek or the call of a kookaburra near Freycinet is a reward earned through careful planning. Each location presents its own unique character and demands, reinforcing the need to align your choice with your desired experience and skill level.

Mastering Your Tasmanian Camping Itinerary

To transform your dream trip into a seamless reality, focus on these critical planning pillars:

• Booking is Non-Negotiable: For popular destinations like Freycinet, Maria Island, and Cradle Mountain, booking your campsite and Parks Pass well in advance is essential, especially during peak seasons. The ballot system for iconic walks and sites is a testament to their popularity, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Embrace the Four Seasons: Tasmanian weather is famously unpredictable. A sunny forecast can shift in an instant, particularly in alpine regions. Always pack high-quality waterproof gear, multiple warm layers, and be prepared for all conditions, regardless of the season. This preparation is the difference between a memorable adventure and a miserable experience.
• Match the Site to Your Style: Are you a mountain biker ready to hit the Blue Derby trails? A wildlife enthusiast keen to spot wombats on Maria Island? Or a family looking for accessible walks and facilities near Strahan? Choosing a campsite that acts as a perfect base for your primary activities will elevate your entire holiday.

Insider Tip: Don’t underestimate the travel time between campsites. While Tasmania looks small on a map, its winding roads and mountainous terrain can make journeys longer than expected. Plan for leisurely drives to truly appreciate the stunning scenery along the way.

Staying Connected in the Wilderness

While disconnecting is often a goal of camping, staying in touch for safety, weather updates, or sharing photos is also important for many travellers. Digital connectivity in Tasmania's remote areas can be sparse. To ensure you're not caught without a signal when you need one, researching the best internet for camping options before you leave is a wise move. Modern solutions like portable satellite messengers or mobile broadband devices can provide a reliable link to the outside world, even from deep within a national park.

Preserving Tasmania’s Pristine Beauty

Ultimately, the privilege of experiencing these incredible natural landscapes comes with a profound responsibility. Every camper becomes a custodian of the environment. Adhering strictly to 'Leave No Trace' principles is paramount. This means packing out everything you pack in, respecting wildlife from a distance, using designated toilet facilities, and sticking to marked trails. By minimising our impact, we ensure that the raw, unspoiled beauty of Tasmania’s best campsites remains for generations of adventurers to come. Your journey into the heart of the Apple Isle is more than just a holiday; it's an opportunity to connect with nature on a deeper level. Now, it's time to pack your bags, double-check your gear, and set off on an unforgettable expedition.

Ready to experience the wild heart of Tasmania without the logistical hassle? Let Tasmania Tours handle the planning, transport, and expert guidance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the adventure. Explore our curated trips at Tasmania Tours and find the perfect guided journey to complement your camping dreams.