Camping in Tasmania on a shoestring - Camper Trailer Australia

Camping in Tasmania on a shoestring

Written by: By Julija Zivanovic and Robert Crack; Photographs Supplied

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Published on

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Time to read 5 min

Check out our top spots for camper trailer travellers in the great outdoors of Tassie


Welcome back to our ongoing series exploring Australia’s top low-cost and no-cost camping destinations. In this leg of the journey, we’re heading to the wild and wonderful island state of Tasmania. With its ancient rainforests, rugged coastlines and untamed wilderness, Tassie is a dream for those towing a camper trailer and chasing budget-friendly adventures.


If you've missed our earlier guides, we've already covered Queensland (part one and part two), Northern Territory, South Australia, Victoria (part one and part two) and New South Wales (part one and part two). Now, let’s roll into part six of our series, where we highlight some of Tasmania’s best free and affordable campgrounds for anyone travelling with a camper trailer.


Tasmanian regions at a glance

Tassie might be small, but it packs a punch. The state is split into five official travel regions, being Hobart and the South, Launceston and the North, North West, West Coast and East Coast.


No matter which corner you explore, you’ll find a mix of coastal beauty, forest escapes and fascinating wildlife.


Free camping spots for the budget-conscious camper

FREE Cockle Creek Campground — Hobart and the South

Perched at the edge of the map in Recherche Bay, this peaceful coastal camp is around two hours’ drive from Hobart. It’s a top spot for fishing, snorkelling, bushwalking or just relaxing by the water.


While 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.


There are 10 unpowered, no-booking-required spots, and the only facility is a pit toilet. You’ll need to bring all your gear and be fully self-reliant.


Contact: 03 6121 7026


FREE Jeanneret Beach Camping Area — East Coast

Set within the Bay of Fires Conservation Area, this stunning beachside retreat is perfect for those who like their campsites quiet and remote. A 3.5-hour drive from Hobart, this spot offers amazing ocean views and decent fishing (though watch for strong currents).


This camping area is suitable for tents, camper trailers, small vans and compact caravans. Toilets are available, but you’ll need to bring your own water, power and supplies.


Contact: St Helens Visitor Information Centre – 03 6376 1744


Out the back window at Jeanneret Beach free camp at Bay of Fires with Binalong Bay in the background


Budget campsites worth the coin

Peppermint Campground — North West

Tucked away in the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, this beachside camp is surrounded by wild beauty and is home to a range of native critters. Great for surfers, paddlers and wildlife watchers.


Cost is $15 per site per night (max six people). You’ll find toilets, showers, barbecues and a dump point — but no drinking water. Tent campers are well-catered for, and camper trailers are welcome with care. The gravel roads can be rough, so a 4WD is recommended.


Fees go to Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service — no need to book ahead.


Contact: 03 6457 1225


Caravan parks with comfort

Bridport Seaside Caravan Park — Launceston and the North

A cracker of a spot for families, this park in Bridport has all the facilities you need. White sandy beaches, outdoor fun and a range of accommodation options from basic sites to comfy cabins.


Features include a barbecue shelter, toilets, hot showers, camp kitchen, tennis court, kids’ play area and a dump point. All types of RVs and camper trailers are welcome.


Contact: bridportcaravanpark.com.au or 03 6356 1227


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Bridport in Tassie is a popular beachside holiday destination (Credit: Rob Burnett)


Scamander Tourist Park — East Coast

If you're planning to explore the Bay of Fires or Freycinet National Park (don’t forget your Parks Pass), Scamander makes a great base. Just three hours’ drive from Hobart, this park has everything you need to unwind after a day’s adventure.


Facilities include a camp kitchen, toilets, showers, laundry, playground and dump point.


Contact: scamandertouristpark.com.au or 03 6372 5121


Zeehan Bush Camp — West Coast

This rustic-style bush camp blends nature with a few creature comforts, offering glamping tents, cabins and tiny homes. Great access to local highlights such as Montezuma Falls and King River Rafting.


Amenities include free gas barbecues, fire pits, EV charging, wi-fi and shared bathrooms.


Contact: zeehanbushcamp.com.au or 03 6471 6633


Off-grid bush camping for the adventurous

*FREEBIE* Bronte Lagoon Bush Camping – Hobart and the South

Set beside a peaceful lake in Bronte Park (two hours from Hobart), this spot offers no amenities whatsoever — so come prepared. Perfect for fishing and enjoying the peaceful surrounds.


If it’s been raining, you’ll want a 4WD. Only suitable for those who are fully self-contained.


Contact: 1300 360 441


FREE Policemans Point Camping Area — East Coast

Up on the state’s northeast tip, this tranquil bush camp delivers top-notch birdwatching, boating and fishing. All vehicle types can get there, but 4WDs are the safer bet.


Facilities are limited to basic toilets, so you'll need to be self-sufficient.


Contact: 03 6376 1744


FREE Sandy Cape Campground — North West

Located in the Arthur-Pieman area, this wild and remote campsite offers breathtaking views over the Southern Ocean. Roads can be rough, so a 4WD is highly recommended.


No toilets or any other facilities — bring your own water, rubbish disposal and supplies. You will need to be fully self-contained.


Overnight Rest Areas – for quick stopovers only

Just a reminder: Rest Areas are for short-term stops to avoid driver fatigue — they’re not a place to set up camp long-term. Stay safe, legal and considerate by only using them as intended.


FREE Beaconsfield Showground Rest Area — Launceston and the North

This one’s handy to both Launceston and Devonport. No tents allowed. Vehicle access only, with a stay limit from 5pm to 9am. Toilets and bins provided.


FREE Kempton Rest Area — Hobart and the South 

This larger rest area sits 45 minutes north of Hobart. You can stay up to 48 hours, and facilities include toilets, barbecues, a playground, water and a dump point. For use by camper trailers, caravans and motorhomes only — no tents allowed.


The Pondering Frog RV Stop — East Coast (donation-based)

Near Bicheno, this relaxed rest stop comes with a café and licensed restaurant. It runs on a donation system and is only open to fully self-contained rigs (campervans, motorhomes, caravans and camper trailers).


Facilities include toilets, water, bins, picnic tables and a playground. No bookings — just rock up.


Contact: ponderingfrog.com.au or 0412 631 299


Related articles

The Northern Territory's best free and budget camping spots

Queensland's best free and budget camping spots: part one

Queensland’s best free and budget camping spots: part two




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