📍 Location: Central Tasmania, approximately 2.5 hours from Launceston
⛺ Best for: Alpine scenery, hiking, and wildlife spotting
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is arguably Tasmania’s most iconic wilderness destination. With dramatic granite peaks, reflective tarns, and dense forests, it’s the perfect place for those who love to immerse themselves in nature.
Why it’s great:
- Breathtaking alpine vistas and diverse wildlife, including wombats and echidnas.
- An extensive network of walking trails for both casual strollers and seasoned hikers.
- A sense of remoteness and tranquillity, making it ideal for disconnecting
from the daily grind.
Camping info:
📍 Location: East coast of Tasmania, near Coles Bay.
⛺ Best for: Pristine beaches, coastal hikes, and stunning ocean views.
Freycinet National Park is a coastal paradise, famous for its crystal-clear waters, pink granite mountains, and the world-renowned Wineglass Bay. It’s an idyllic spot for beach lovers and those who enjoy gentle coastal walks.
Why it’s great:
- White sandy beaches and turquoise waters set against dramatic pink granite backdrops.
- Accessible hiking trails that lead to panoramic coastal views.
- Abundant opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Camping info:
• Freycinet National Park Campground – Offers both powered and unpowered sites with basic facilities, right on the edge of the bush.
• Craigie Knowe Vineyard – Approximately 40 minutes from Freycinet National Park, this campsite is a working vineyard set on 20 acres which welcomes self-contained campers. The perfect spot to relax with a glass of wine after a busy day!
3. Bay of Fires – Remote Beach Camping & Natural Beauty
📍 Location: North-east Tasmania, approximately 3 hours from Hobart.
⛺ Best for: Secluded beaches, unique rock formations, and tranquil coastal environments.
The Bay of Fires is renowned for its striking orange-hued boulders, white beaches, and clear blue waters. This remote coastal region offers a truly unique camping experience away from the crowds.
Why it’s great:
- Unspoilt beaches and dramatic coastal rock formations create a picture-perfect setting.
- Ideal for fishing, snorkelling, and exploring tidal pools.
- A remote, off-grid environment that’s perfect for those seeking peace and solitude.
Camping info:
- Designated beach campsites – Simple, low-key spots that let you fall asleep
to the sound of the waves. - Remote bush camping – In some areas, you can set up camp amongst native scrub – just be sure to follow local guidelines and leave no trace.
📍 Location: Off the east coast of Tasmania, accessible by ferry from Triabunna.
⛺ Best for: Wildlife encounters, historic ruins, and quiet, secluded camping.
Maria Island National Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Once a penal colony, the island is now a haven for wildlife and a peaceful retreat from the modern world.
Why it’s great:
- An abundance of native wildlife including wombats, kangaroos, and Tasmanian
devils. - Historic ruins and shipwreck remnants provide an intriguing glimpse into the past.
- A quiet, car-free environment that’s perfect for stargazing and immersive nature walks.
Camping info:
- Maria Island Camping at Darlington – Basic, well-maintained sites with pit toilets and picnic tables.
- Kanyina Camp – For self contained campers only, this campsite offers easy access to both Maria Island and Freycinet National Park. Stunning views and peaceful vistas to enjoy.
5. Southwest National Park – Remote Bush Campin & Wilderness Adventures
📍 Location: South-west Tasmania, in one of Australia’s most untouched wilderness areas.
⛺ Best for: Remote bush camping, multi-day treks, and true back-to-nature experiences.
The Southwest National Park is a vast, rugged expanse of untamed wilderness. It’s perfect for the experienced camper who relishes the challenge of true off-grid adventures.
Why it’s great:
- A vast and rugged landscape that remains largely untouched by modern development.
- Excellent opportunities for multi-day hiking, canoeing, and river exploration.
- An environment that offers a real sense of remoteness and isolation.
Camping info:
- Backcountry campsites – Basic, free-camping sites that require a true bush spirit and proper preparation.
- Minimal facilities – Camp responsibly, pack in, and pack out, and be prepared for challenging conditions.
📍 Location: Central Tasmania, about one hour from Hobart.
⛺ Best for: Lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and family-friendly camping.
Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s most accessible national parks, boasting towering forests and spectacular waterfalls. It’s an excellent destination for families and those who enjoy a mix of bushwalking and relaxation.
Why it’s great:
- Impressive waterfalls including the iconic Russell Falls, easily accessible via a short walk.
- Diverse ecosystems, from cool temperate rainforests to alpine heathlands.
- Plenty of walking trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Camping info:
- Mount Field Campground – Offers a range of facilities including powered sites, toilets, and picnic areas.
- Backcountry camping – For those who prefer a more immersive experience in nature, with minimal facilities available.
Essential Gear for Off-Grid Camping in Tasmania
When heading out into Tasmania’s diverse wilderness, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are some must-have items to ensure your camping trip is safe and enjoyable:
- 12V Battery System - Keep your campsite powered for lights, charging devices, and small appliances.
- Solar Panels - Harness the abundant Tassie sunshine to run your ridge and charge your gadgets.
- Fridge/Freezer - Keep your food & drinks fresh, especially during extended trips.
- LED Camping Lights - Efficient, long-lasting lighting for setting up camp after dark.
- Quality Tent & Bush Gear - Ensure you have weather-appropriate shelter, sleeping gear, and outdoor cooking equipment to face Tasmania's variable climate.
Final Thoughts
From the alpine splendour of Cradle Mountain to the pristine beaches of the Bay of Fires, Tasmania offers an incredible range of camping destinations that cater to every type of outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re a family seeking a peaceful retreat, a solo adventurer in search of remote wilderness, or a couple looking for a romantic escape under the stars, there’s a perfect campsite waiting for you on this rugged island.
Tasmania’s camping spots not only offer a chance to experience some of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes but also the opportunity to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect with nature. So pack your gear, plan your route, and get ready to explore the untamed beauty of Tasmania. Happy camping!
