Tasmania has an abundance of untouched beauty and is one of the best states in Australia for free and wild camping. Enjoy a view of huge mountain ranges and incredible beaches when you wake up in the morning, all on a budget.
Often the best free camping spots are found by word of mouth, by meeting others on the road or through social media channels. Just keep in mind that some of these free campgrounds in Tasmania do not allow pitching a tent. But if you’re travelling by RV or campervan, then you should have no problem at all. Consider researching the best rooftop tents as well, so you can have a cozy sleeping situation without needing to pitch a tent on the ground.
Our guest authors: Alesha and Jarryd are travel writers, photographers and creators from Australia who have been travelling the world together non-stop since 2008. Their passion for adventure travel, sustainable tourism and van life has seen them visit some of the most remote destinations on the planet, seeking out incredible landscapes and unique cultures. You can follow their adventures on NOMADasaurus and Van Life Theory
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep My Australia Trip free and provide high-quality content for you. Please read the full disclaimer for more information.
Is wild camping legal in Tasmania?
Staying at free campsites in Tasmania should not be confused with wild camping. Keep these definitions in mind:
Free camping: Staying at basic campsites that do not charge a nightly fee.
Wild camping: Camping outside of designated campsites, often in secret.
As is the case with most parts of Australia, wild camping in Tasmania is a tricky subject. You can technically camp in places where there is no signage asking you not to, although it’s of course not possible to camp on private land without permission. National Parks should also be treated cautiously. It’s usually prohibited and there tend to be bush camping sites available for those on a budget.
Always make sure to follow local regulations and do not camp anywhere if it’s explicitly prohibited. Should you be wild camping in secret in Tasmania, try to be discreet and, of course, take all your rubbish and belongings with you.
Our tip: Still not sure if you should consider wild camping in Tasmania? Read our complete wild camping guide for Australia here.
Is it easy to camp on a budget in Tasmania?
Camping in Australia, in general, is not as affordable as you might think, with nightly prices for nicer campsites being as high as $50 AUD or more. This usually applies to large holiday parks, which will have a lot of amenities that more budget-friendly grounds might not have. Luckily, you can also find cheap or even free campgrounds in Tasmania, like the ones on this list, although it might take some time to find them.
Just keep in mind that camping for free might not always be possible in popular tourist locations. You’ll find that the majority of these spots tend to be inland and away from the crowds. You can see this as a good or bad thing, but wild camping in Tasmania is definitely possible.
Best tips for finding free or cheap camping sites in Tasmania
Keep these things in mind before your camping trip:
- Not all cheap free camping spots in Tasmania allow tents. This is mostly due to there being no toilet facilities (and it is assumed that campervans or RVs have their own).
- Quite a few service stations or roadside stops are suitable for free camping should you be struggling to find something in the area. Make sure to ask for permission, if possible, before setting up.
- Check if there is a maximum amount of nights you can stay if you find a free spot. This is often the case, and although it’s rarely monitored, the rules should be followed.
- Always leave your campsite like you found it (or ideally better) and take any rubbish or equipment with you.
Our tip: Heading to the mainland next? Check out these top secret free camping spots on the east coast of Australia.
Map of the best free camping spots in Tasmania
We created this handy map so you can keep track of all the best free camping spots in Tasmania.
Top tip: Click the icon in the top right corner to add this map to your own Google Maps so it will always be with you on the go.
14 best free camping spots in Tasmania
You can find our favourite free campgrounds in Tasmania below. Keep in mind that camping rules constantly change, and locations that used to be free may no longer be. We constantly update this post to make sure everything is accurate but if you still notice something that isn’t quite right, please leave us a comment below and we will fix it immediately.
Free camping in north Tasmania
Northern Tasmania is a camping paradise and you absolutely have to visit hotspots like Devonport, Launceston, Penguin and George Town, all of which have opportunities for cheap or free overnight camping nearby.
1. Mole Creek Hotel Free Camping
In central north Tasmania, you will find Mole Creek and Chudleigh, a diverse area – both above and below the ground. Home of the Mole Creek Caves, there is so much to do nearby, so it is a perfect place to stop for the night. Make sure you allow enough time for the Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary to see the famous Tasmanian Devils.
The Melita Honey Farm is also a must-visit, with over 50 honey products for you to check out. Mole Creek is a great stopover for some relaxing bush walks and a great point to move on for free camping at Cradle Mountain, the coast or Deloraine in north west Tasmania. Wildlife spotters are advised to keep a close eye out for platypuses in the creek next to the hotel.
Location: Designated free camping ground opposite the Mole Creek Hotel
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: Vehicles can only park here for 24 hours and stay 1 night
Facilities: No facilities at all, so this is only suitable if you are completely self-contained
Please note: No pets are allowed at this site, and pitching tents is also not permitted
Our tip: Hesitant to camp in a place without facilities? Not having the comforts of home is actually one of the top reasons why people don’t like camping. Luckily, I’ve got the solutions for you.
2. Railton Self-Contained RV Park
25 kilometres from Devonport and 12 kilometres from Sheffield is the small town of Railton with it’s free camping RV park. Railton is well known for the main street full of topiaries that depict animals and statue-like figures. At the nearby, Sykes Sanctuary you can see beautiful birds while exploring the walking tracks over 40 acres.
Tantalize your tastebuds at the chocolate factory where you can taste and view truffles, fudge, and chocolates being made by hand. Keep going at the nearby Spreyton Cider Co, located on the working orchid. Guests can enjoy a tasting for a fee while being surrounded by stunning scenery.
While there are no free campgrounds available in Sheffield, Tasmania, Railton is the next best thing for those wanting to stay close by.
Location: Railton Self-Contained RV Park
Costs: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: 14 nights
Facilities: While there are none at the site area, there are clean public toilets around the corner at the Lions Park. A short walk away at Goliath Park, free campers can also utilize hot showers for a cost of AUD $1 for 3 minutes.
Please note: Dogs are allowed at this free camping site, but they must be kept on a leash, and pitching tents is strictly prohibited
3. Swan Point Free Camp
Swan Point Free Camp is located on the edge of the Tamar River in northern Tasmania, close to George Town. It is the perfect place to relax, go fishing, and admire the seals playing in the water at sunset. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the birds and boats sailing by while you keep an eye out for the land wildlife. It is the perfect stopover to access the famous Tamar Valley Wine Route.
Don’t forget to visit Platypus House to admire these exquisite creatures and visit the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage World for a dose of Australian history. The Swan Point Free Camping spot is perfect if you want to explore the nearby Launceston which is a popular tourist location.
Location: Swan Point Free Camping near Launceston
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: Unlimited
Facilities: No facilities, so ensure you are fully self-contained
Please note: This site is pet friendly but always consider the birds and wildlife when you are camping
4. Sulphur Creek Free Camp
This free camping spot at Preservation Bay is located in the North West of Tasmania, directly at the beautiful coast and only around 15 minutes from Burnie. The quiet little town is only 17 kilometres from Burnie, so it is a great spot to do some great sightseeing in the area. Make sure you take a photo with the big penguin, standing at 3 meters tall and depending on the time of year you go, you may even catch a glimpse of the little birds along the water.
Location: Preservation Bay, next to the Penguin Surf Life Saving Club
Cost: Donation-based
Maximum nights for free camping: 48 hours of parking permitted only
Facilities: No facilities, so ensure you are fully self-contained. The Surf Life Saving Club facilities are not allowed to be used by free campers
Please note: This site is pet friendly but be mindful of local wildlife. Pitching tents is not allowed at this free camping site
Free camping spots on the east coast of Tasmania
The east coast of Tasmania has incredible beaches and endless road trips through untouched nature with plenty of cheap or free camping spots to choose from. Make your trip to Australia’s most beautiful state even more memorable by staying at these camps.
5. Triabunna Spring Bay Hotel Free Camping
Just 7 kilometres north of Orford is the gorgeous port-side town of Triabunna. With plenty of shops and galleries to explore in town, this is also a great place to experience water activities like fishing and sailing, as well as being one of the most spectacular dive sites in the world. Make sure you check out the marina to try some of the best seafood around. The stunning Spring Beach is only 15 kilometres away, and it is well worth a visit.
If you’re looking for a free camping site close to Orford on the west coast of Tasmania, you’ll love the Triabunna Spring Bay Hotel.
Location: Located behind the Spring Bay Hotel and is available for all RV’s Camper trailers, caravans as well as tents.
Cost: Free, but there is a community donation box at the hotel bar for contributions.
Maximum nights for free camping: If you are in a self-contained vehicle, you can stay 4 nights. If you have a camper trailer or are using a tent, you can stay for 2 nights.
Facilities: None at the site. There are toilets at a 24-hour toilet block next to the hotel at the information centre. Also at the information centres are hot water showers, for a cost, and are available from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Please note: This site is pet friendly. The bins are for the use of the hotel only, so all rubbish must be taken with you and not left behind.
6. Bicheno Bay free camping at the Pondering Frog Cafe
If want to explore Freycinet National Park in Tasmania, then this is one of the best free camping spots to try. Not only is Bicheno in Tasmania home to turquoise waters and beautiful white sand, you can also enjoy the fishing town’s fantastic free camping sites and book a tour to see the fairy penguins at dusk. The free camping site at The Pondering Frog Ice Cream Cafe is a town favourite, known for its delicious ice cream, yummy desserts, and extensive wine and coffee menu.
Location: The Pondering Frog
Cost: Donation-based
Maximum nights for free camping: 7 nights
Facilities: The site is designed for fully contained campers and RVs only, however, the cafe has toilets and baby change facilities for customers
Please note: This site is pet friendly. Tents are not allowed, but generators are permitted. Please ensure you take all your rubbish with you and do not use the cafe facilities for dumping.
7. Isaacs Point Free Camping near Bicheno Bay, Tasmania
Heading towards Coles Bay on the east coast of Tasmania, off the beaten track, is Isaacs Point. One of the best free camping spots in the area is called Friendly Beaches which is located right by the water. The site is in Freycinet National Park, and you will be required to have a National Parks Pass, and be prepared to take an unsealed road. However, the bumps are worth it when you arrive to overlook the stunning waters and rock formations.
It is a great location for fishing, swimming, and surfing as well as relaxing on the soft white sand, just make sure to not take any sand or shells with you. Also, consider having an air compressor for an RV or campervan when driving along rugged terrain. It can be a lifesaver!
Location: Isaacs Point Free Camping
Cost: Free to camp, but you need to purchase a National Parks Pass
Maximum nights for free camping: 14 nights
Facilities: Pit toilets are located in the free camping area. Ensure you have plenty of potable water with you
Please note: This site operates on a first-come-first-served basis and fills up quickly, so come early. Pets are not allowed to protect the wildlife, and all rubbish must be taken with you
Free camping west coast Tasmania
The west coast of Tasmania is wild, and camping here for free is a once-in-a-lifetime experience everyone has to do once. Imagine windblown beaches, impressive mountains and overall some of the best scenery around.
8. Strahan and Trial Harbour free camping
Strahan is a small town known for its quaint atmosphere and stunning nature located on the west coast of Tasmania. Free camping in Strahan itself is difficult and you’ll have to stay about an hour outside if you want to avoid having to pay. The Trial Harbour campground is a fantastic choice, though and will convince you with its incredible views and remote location. It does get quite windy here, so if you’re camping with a tent, you might want to double-check your equipment and bring some extra lines and poles to secure your setup. This free camping site is one of the most beautiful on the west coast of Tasmania so arrive early to get a good spot.
Location: Trial Harbour Campground
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: None
Facilities: Toilets
Please note: The ground here is soft, and after heavy rain, it can be muddy. It’s recommended that you have a 4WD to camp here.
9. Queenstown, Thureau Hills
Queenstown is one of the best places in Tasmania for free camping, and the nearby Thureau Hills campsite at Lake Burbury is one of our favourites. Camp right by the water and go fishing or hiking. Relax and take in the surrounding nature at this incredible spot. If you’re looking for free camping spots in Queenstown, which is a tourist hotspot on the west coast of Tasmania, you’ll realise that you’ll have to stay outside of town. Luckily, the drive is short and scenic, so you’re not missing out.
Location: Lake Burbury, Thureau Hills
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: 1 night
Facilities: Chemical toilets and picnic tables
Please note: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. Tents are not permitted.
10. Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel
In the heart of Tasmania is the tiny town of Derwent Bridge. Explore the nearby Lake St Clair by boat, which is the deepest lake in Australia, and by far one of the prettiest. Being surrounded by the snowcapped peaks within Cradle Mountain National Park, it is hard to believe you are only 147 kilometres away from Hobart when you are surrounded by so much beauty. This is the perfect stop to hike and explore the national park, and highly recommended.
Location: The Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel Free Camping, in the hotel car park, halfway between Hobart and Strahan.
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: None
Facilities: None at the sight.
Please note: This site is pet friendly. There is a conveniently located dump point opposite the hotel, and all rubbish needs to be taken with you.
11. Lake Mackintosh Dam Camping
Not far from Cradle Mountain, this free lakeside camping site is perfect for those who want peace and quiet and to be one with nature. Free from the hustle and bustle of traffic, this site is only 5 kilometres from Tullah, where you can head if you need supplies or grab dinner. Enjoy hiking, bird watching, or trout fishing. Or use this free camping spot as the place that finally gives you enough quiet to read that book you have been wanting to finish.
Location: Lake Mackintosh Camping Site
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: Unlimited
Facilities: None
Please note: This site is pet friendly but be mindful of having your dog off the lead as wombats love to roam the area.
12. Binalong Bay Cosy Corner South free camping
The sunrises at Binalong Bay are truly spectacular. There is nothing quite like a free campground right on the beach, and this is one of the best spots to do that in Tasmania. Located just outside of St Helens, you can get everything you need for beachside meals and sunset drinks close to this free camping site in one of the most beautiful parts of Tasmania. Wake to the turquoise blue waters each morning, and explore the stunning Bay of Fires red rock formations, which are located nearby.
If you’re looking for a prime free camping spot near St Helens in Tasmania, Binalong Bay is the way to go.
You’ll love our complete guide to camping at the Bay of Fires, which has five more free camping sites in the area.
Location: Cosy Corner South Camping, Bay of Fires Swimcart Beach, Binalong Bay
Cost: Free
Maximum nights for free camping: 28 days
Facilities: Toilets are available. There are no rubbish facilities so take all your rubbish with you.
Please note: Pets are welcome here, but it is advised to keep them on a lead as much as possible.
Free camping near Hobart
If you’re planning a few days in and around Hobart or Bruny Island and have no idea where to find free camping spots, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best options.
13. The Pines Bruny Island free camping
Bruny Island is a prime destination for locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway from Hobart, the Pines free camping site is the perfect choice, even though the facilities are basic. This is one of the most remote areas of Bruny Island, and it takes some time to drive here, so factor in plenty on your way down. Despite its quiet location at a deserted beach, the Pines campground gets quite popular during the high season. This is mostly because it’s the only free camping spot on Bruny Island which is so popular due to its proximity to Hobart. Definitely arrive early if you can.
Location: The Pines campground
Cost: Free, but national parks pass required
Maximum nights for free camping: none
Facilities: Toilets are available, but no other facilities
Please note: This is not a dog-friendly site
Our tip: Before heading to Tasmania, ensure you are with a phone network that covers where you are going. There are several spots around the state that are only covered by the Telstra Network, and some areas have no phone coverage at all.
14. Kempton free camping ground near Hobart
Finding places for free camping near Hobart is difficult. In the city itself, there are no official free campsites, and you’ll have to drive for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to find a location that doesn’t charge a nightly fee. A fantastic choice is the free camping ground in Kempton which is located 45 minutes from the centre of Hobart. The little town is pretty, with some shops, a tavern and an old distillery. The campsite is basic and located close to a noisy road, but if you need a place to stay close to Hobart and don’t want to spend money, it’s ideal.
Location: Kempton Camp Grounds
Cost: Free, donations appreciated
Maximum nights for free camping: 1 night
Facilities: Showers and toilets are available for a fee, tap water is available for free. Limited amount of powered sites are available
Please note: This is not a dog-friendly site
New rules for free camping in Tasmania
In 2019 new regulations for free camping spots and campgrounds Tasmania were proposed by the Department of Treasury and Finance. This was implemented due to complaints by private campgrounds who have to compete against free sites and therefore lose out on money, especially during the high season. This is specifically applicable to remote parts of Tasmania where there are lots of free campgrounds available.
The new rules for free camping in Tasmania state that free, non-powered sites can make up no more than 10% of all campgrounds in a 60-kilometre radius. Should the number rise above 10%, the site needs to charge per night, or the local council has to prove it represents a benefit to the local community.
These rules lead to the closure of a number of free camping locations in Tasmania, although there are still a lot to choose from.
Final thoughts
Camping on a budget can be a challenge, but Tasmania has plenty of free campgrounds available to choose from. Save money and still stay in beautiful locations like the ones on this list. Plus, you have the chance to meet a little community that is also loving this type of travel. In addition, once you have the right gear and equipment, you will have access to some of the finest accommodation spots within Australia and for the adventurous, around the world.
Frequently asked questions about free camps in Tasmania
Yes, many free camping sites in Tasmania are dog-friendly, although it is often required that you keep your pets on a leash.
There are still plenty of free camping spots in Tasmania, although there might not be too many to choose from in popular tourist areas.
Wherever possible, it’s definitely recommended to pre-book camp sites although many do not have this possibility and the only way to ensure you get a spot is to arrive early.
Yes, there are plenty of free campgrounds in Tasmania.
You can go on a wild camping adventure in Tasmania, but you need to follow local rules and only camp where it is permitted.
No, you cannot camp on private property or in areas that are no camping zones. National Parks usually only allow camping in designated sites.
Yes, you can bring your vehicle to Tasmania on the ferry for an extra fee.
Did we miss anything?
If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post please leave a comment below or contact us.
