Camping for free in Tasmania

If you have a tent, there are many places to spend the night for free in Tasmania.

Wild camping, or sleeping out in the bush, is possible as long as you follow the usual rules of being discreet and not trespassing over farmland or other private property. In some areas, long stretches of land are fenced for agricultural use.

State forests and logging roads offer better opportunities for a tent spot in the woods. Note, however, that you are not generally permitted to bush camp in National Parks. In these protected areas, you must stick to existing campsites, which sometimes charge a fee for overnight guests.

Another free sleeping option is to use one of Tasmania’s many rest areas (usually in or near towns) and unserviced campgrounds set within state forests or national parks. The rest areas may be run by the local municipality or by groups like the Lions Club or Rotary Club. Usually you’ll find water, toilets and, if you’re lucky, barbecues and showers.

We have produced a map that marks the locations of many established free campsites in Tasmania.

If you need to clean up after a few days of free camping, ask at tourist bureaus to see where you can buy a shower. The tourist bureau itself may have facilities or know of a local hotel that will let you scrub up for a few dollars.