No state beckons nature lovers like Tasmania. Here’s where to pitch your tent for minimal dollars.
Great free camping in Tasmania can be opposite the ocean, alongside rivers and beside beautiful lakes. While others are conveniently located behind pubs or wineries where you can enjoy a nice cold drink and a night off from well… everything.
Here is a taste of some of the places we recommend:
Freycinet
You can choose from Richardsons Beach, Honeymoon Bay and Ranger Creek. There are 18 powered sites with coin-operated showers and drinking water plus toilets. There are 21 sand dune sites are within easy reach of potable water, flushing toilets and cold water showers. But if you are lucky enough try for one of the six Honeymoon Bay sites perched upon a knoll with water views. The Honeymoon Bay sites are only open over summer holidays and at Easter and require a bit of a walk to the amenities. Electric barbecues, picnic tables, non-treated water and toilets are available in this area.
Douglas-Aspley National Park
Once this was the site of a coal mine, I kid you not. It sounds like it was named after the President of the local bowling club. What it is… perhaps the best Tassie has to offer in splendid, isolated, prime Tassie wilderness. Once you’ve paid your park entry free, the camping is free. The sites at Heritage Falls and Tevelein Falls – both on the Douglas River – are sublime. Campers will need to bring their own food, water, tent and fuel stove but no bookings are necessary.
Lime Bay
On the Tasman Peninsula, this slice of paradise is a must-visit location for snorkelers, kayakers and those who enjoy throwing in a line. There is parking, drinking water, cycling tracks and importantly toilets. In a very Tassie way, it is all about trust. Camping is self-registration and there is no staff permanently on-site. So, come prepared with the correct money to pay camping fees in the self-registration box.
Cockle Creek
If a trip away means taking your dog, check out this free campground in Southwest National Park. There are leashed and off-leash zones for you and your tail-wagging companion to explore. Those without tails will also love the wide array of watersports on offer in this World Heritage area. Like all national parks in Tasmania, a park pass is required.
Derby Park
Located by the river this one costs not a cent. The place to go in Tasmania for those who like mountain biking. The 125 kilometres of the Ride Blue Derby mountain biking network are waiting to be enjoyed. Shower facilities are located in Main Street behind the Tin Centre, and are coin-operated.
Cosy Corner
This is one not everyone has heard of. While Bay of Fires has the resorts, this picture postcard ocean location just off Garden Road is free and dog-friendly. You’ll have to bring in your own water and firewood but it’s totally worth it. You can thank us later. Check it out before it becomes the latest must-visit location.
