RV Travel in Hobart, Australia – The Complete Guide

Hobart, Tasmania’s charming capital, is a destination that quietly steals the hearts of RV travellers. Tucked between the Derwent River and the dramatic slopes of kunanyi/Mount Wellington, this harbour city offers an unbeatable blend of natural beauty, heritage architecture, and artisan culture—all accessible by road. Whether you’re a grey nomad touring Tassie for the season, a vanlife couple chasing the island’s cool-climate vibes, or an international traveller seeking something off the mainland trail, Hobart is a place that welcomes you—and your campervan—with open arms.

For RVers, Hobart’s appeal lies in its simplicity. The roads are calm, distances short, and scenery always close. Within an hour, you can go from sipping a coffee at Salamanca Market to standing at a snowy summit or pulling into a quiet beachfront campground in the Huon Valley. It’s a launchpad to Bruny Island, the Tasman Peninsula, and the island’s east coast—and yet it’s compelling enough to spend a week parked in one spot, just soaking up the pace.

This guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable RV trip to Hobart: where to rent, where to stay, how to drive, what to see, and insider travel tips only experienced road trippers know. Whether you’re looping the island or staying close to town, Hobart offers a gentle but deeply rewarding RV experience.

What Makes Hobart a Great RV Destination?

Hobart may be one of Australia’s smallest capital cities, but it offers big rewards for RV travellers. With its mix of rugged wilderness, quiet beaches, heritage streetscapes, and slow-living charm, Hobart is the kind of place where you can truly travel at your own pace. Whether you’re setting up beside the Derwent River, heading south to a remote foreshore camp, or planning a full loop around Tasmania, Hobart is both a perfect starting point and a destination worth lingering in.

Unique Traits That Make Hobart RV-Worthy

Hobart is compact, calm, and easy to navigate – a rare combination that makes it ideal for first-time RV travellers or those seeking a break from big city chaos. The city is surrounded on all sides by stunning nature: Mount Wellington looms to the west, the Southern Ocean stretches out to the south, and rolling countryside extends to the north and east.

From your campsite, you can visit MONA’s provocative art exhibits, browse fresh seafood at the docks, or hit a walking trail with river views – all in the same day. The RV infrastructure is growing steadily, with more parks, dump points, and low-cost stays opening up across Greater Hobart and beyond.

Seasonal Breakdown: Best Times to Visit

• Summer (December to February)
  Peak travel season. Expect long daylight hours, warm weather (up to 26°C), and packed festivals like Taste of Tasmania. Campgrounds book out early, especially coastal ones.

• Autumn (March to May)
  A beautiful time for RV travel – think crisp mornings, golden leaves, and fewer crowds. Perfect for photography, hiking, and enjoying Hobart’s food scene without the summer rush.

• Winter (June to August)
  Cold, with regular frosts and occasional snow on Mount Wellington. Ideal if you want quiet parks, off-peak pricing, and a cosy vibe. Great for campers with heating or wool blankets.

• Spring (September to November)
  Wildflower blooms, fresh seafood season, and a good balance of sun and cool. Road conditions are reliable, and campgrounds are more available than in peak months.

The Local Vibe

Hobart offers something many cities have lost – a feeling of space and stillness. It’s a city where heritage homes line the hills, locals know their oyster farmers by name, and every main road leads to a view worth photographing. There’s a growing creative community here too, centred around galleries, weekend markets, and cafes tucked into 19th-century warehouses.

From an RV perspective, Hobart feels like a coastal village with capital city conveniences. You’re never far from your next supply stop, trailhead, or sunset spot. And the best part? You can take your time. Tasmania doesn’t rush its travellers – and Hobart embodies that ethos perfectly.

Where to Rent an RV in Hobart

Hobart is one of the best places in Australia to begin an RV road trip, especially if you’re planning to explore the island at your own pace. Most major rental depots are conveniently located near the airport in Cambridge and Mornington, making pickup and drop-off easy whether you’re flying in or connecting from the ferry at Devonport. From budget campervans to fully self-contained motorhomes, Hobart offers quality rental options for every traveller.

Below are five of the top-rated RV rental companies in and around Hobart:

1. Cruisin’ Motorhomes – Cambridge

• Location: Cambridge, near Hobart Airport

• Vehicles: 2 to 6 berth campervans and motorhomes

• Highlights: Modern fleet, Tasmanian-owned company, good off-season deals

• Visit website: https://www.cruisinmotorhomes.com.au/

2. GoCheap Campervans – Cambridge

• Location: Shares depot with Cruisin’, Cambridge

• Vehicles: Budget 2 to 4 berth campervans

• Highlights: Economical choice for couples or solo travellers, basic but reliable

• Visit website: https://www.gocheapcampervans.com.au/

3. Apollo Motorhomes – Mornington

• Location: Mornington industrial area, short drive from the CBD

• Vehicles: 2 to 6 berth motorhomes, 4WD campers (seasonal availability)

• Highlights: National brand with 24/7 support, large fleet options

• Visit website: https://www.apollocamper.com/

4. LeisureRent – Cambridge

• Location: Cambridge, close to the airport

• Vehicles: Compact campervans and small motorhomes (2 to 4 berth)

• Highlights: Independent Tassie company, competitive pricing, quick check-in

• Visit website: https://www.leisurerent.com.au/

5. Maui / Britz / Mighty – Cambridge

• Location: Cambridge, shared depot for all three brands

• Vehicles: From premium 6-berth motorhomes (Maui) to budget backpacker vans (Mighty)

• Highlights: Wide range of vehicle types, ideal for long-term rentals

• Visit website: https://www.britz.com.au/ or https://www.maui-rentals.com/ or https://www.mightycampers.com.au/

RV Rental Tips for Hobart Travellers

• Licensing: A standard full driver’s licence is sufficient for most vehicles. If your licence isn’t in English, bring an International Driving Permit (IDP).

• Tolls: There are no toll roads in Tasmania – so no need to worry about e-tags or online passes.

• Self-Containment: If you plan to free camp outside of caravan parks, book a vehicle with onboard toilet and water tanks – some councils require this.

• Book Early in Summer: December through February is peak season. Book at least 2 months in advance for the best choice and rates.

• Check for Heating: Tasmania gets cold at night outside of summer. Make sure your vehicle has heating or bring extra layers and bedding.

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Hobart

Whether you prefer a fully serviced holiday park close to town or a peaceful beachfront site a bit further out, Hobart has a campground to suit every kind of RV traveller. Many of the best sites are within 30 minutes of the city centre, offering a great base to explore southern Tasmania without giving up comfort, scenery, or connectivity.

Here are six of the top-rated RV parks and campgrounds in and around Hobart:

1. Discovery Parks – Hobart (Risdon Vale)

• Why Stay Here: Close to Hobart city with good amenities and views over the Derwent River. Great for families and first-time RVers.

• Facilities: Powered sites, camp kitchen, dump point, BBQs, Wi-Fi, laundry

• Pet-Friendly: Yes (on leash)

• Visit website: https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/tasmania/hobart/hobart

2. Barilla Holiday Park – Cambridge

• Why Stay Here: Convenient location near the airport and most RV rental depots. Has an on-site restaurant and natural hot spring spa.

• Facilities: Powered/unpowered sites, dump point, showers, BBQs, hot pool

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

• Visit website: https://www.barillabay.com.au/

3. Snug Beach Cabin & Caravan Park – Snug

• Why Stay Here: Quiet beachfront park about 30 minutes south of Hobart. Perfect for nature lovers, couples, and families wanting a scenic stay.

• Facilities: Powered sites, dump point, camp kitchen, laundry, beachfront access

• Pet-Friendly: Yes (restrictions may apply)

• Visit website: https://www.snugbeach.com.au/

4. Hobart Showground – Glenorchy

• Why Stay Here: Budget-friendly, large open sites, close to supermarkets and North Hobart dining strip.

• Facilities: Basic powered sites, dump point, toilets, security gate access

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

• Visit website: https://hobartshowground.com.au/

5. Seven Mile Beach Cabin & Caravan Park – Seven Mile Beach

• Why Stay Here: Coastal location just east of the airport. Good for early morning flights, beach walks, and quiet nights.

• Facilities: Powered sites, showers, kitchen, BBQ area, playground

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

• Visit website: https://www.sevenmilebeach.com.au/

6. South Arm RSL & Foreshore Camping – South Arm

• Why Stay Here: Affordable and scenic beachside camping run by the local RSL. Ideal for self-contained RVs and travellers seeking a peaceful coastal base.

• Facilities: Unpowered sites, basic toilets, water taps, dump point nearby

• Pet-Friendly: Yes

• Visit website: https://www.southarmrsl.com.au/

Local Tips for Campers in Hobart

• Booking Seasons: Summer (December to February) and school holidays fill fast—book Discovery, Snug, and Seven Mile Beach well in advance.

• Public Transport Access: Barilla and Hobart Showground are within reach of buses to the city. Others may require a car or bike to get around.

• Legal Camping Guidance: Free camping is not permitted within Hobart’s urban area unless signed. Use approved campsites or low-cost RSL/reserve options where allowed.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Hobart

A successful RV trip depends on more than just great campgrounds. Fortunately, Hobart offers a well-rounded selection of dump points, water refill stations, fuel stops, repair shops, and road trip tools to keep you rolling smoothly—whether you’re staying close to the city or heading out into Tasmania’s wilder regions.

Dump Points (Public and Campground Access)

• Cambridge Public Dump Point

  • Free access, located near the Barilla Holiday Park and airport

  • Well-signed and suited for large motorhomes

• Barilla Holiday Park – Cambridge

  • Guest access only, clean and easy-to-use

  • Convenient for those staying locally

• Snug Beach Caravan Park

  • Access for staying guests, close to scenic southern routes

• Hobart Showground – Glenorchy

  • Free dump point included for overnight stays

Tip: Always carry your own gloves and hose fittings—Tasmania uses standard connections, but it’s best to be prepared.

Fresh Water Refill Stations

• Most caravan parks: Provide potable water at each powered site or shared taps

• Cambridge Public Tap: Located near the dump point, free refill option

• Public Parks: Some parks offer taps, but not all are drinking water—use WikiCamps to confirm

Reminder: Always label drinking vs. non-drinking tanks and sanitise if refilling from unknown sources.

RV-Friendly Fuel Stations

• United Mornington (Cambridge Road)

  • Spacious forecourt, easy access for motorhomes and trailers

  • Close to rental depots

• BP Moonah (Main Road)

  • Good for northbound travel or restocking before heading to the Midlands Highway

• Shell Cambridge (Tasman Highway)

  • Close to airport and Seven Mile Beach route

Use Fuel Map Australia for up-to-date pricing and RV-friendly station layouts: https://www.fuelmap.com.au/

RV Repairs & Accessory Shops

• Jayco Hobart – Mornington

  • Authorised servicing, spare parts, and warranty repairs

  • Visit website: https://www.jaycohobart.com.au/

• Tas RV Centre – Brighton

  • Full-service workshop and RV sales, great for upgrades or fixes

  • Visit website: https://www.tasrvcentre.com.au/

• Campervan & Motorhome Repairs – Kingston

  • General servicing, modifications, and insurance repairs

  • Visit website: https://www.campervanrepairs.com.au/

Recommended Travel & Fuel Apps

• CamperMate – Find camping spots, dump points, and user reviews

  • Visit website: https://www.campermate.com.au/

• WikiCamps Australia – Offline access to toilets, camps, showers, dump stations

  • Visit website: https://www.wikicamps.com.au/

• Fuel Map Australia – Track fuel prices and large-vehicle access

  • Visit website: https://www.fuelmap.com.au/

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations

Driving an RV around Hobart is refreshingly straightforward compared to mainland capitals. The roads are less congested, distances are short, and Tasmania’s relaxed pace extends to most aspects of driving and parking. That said, there are still a few local rules and best practices that every RV traveller should know to avoid fines or hassles.

Can You Drive an RV into Hobart CBD?

Yes, you can drive an RV into the city centre, but parking is limited for larger rigs. The CBD streets are compact and can become tight during peak hours, especially around Salamanca Place and Battery Point. It’s often more convenient to park in outer suburbs (like Glenorchy or Cambridge) and bus or cycle in for the day.

Tip: If you plan to visit MONA or the Salamanca Market on a Saturday, arrive early to secure parking—or avoid bringing your RV altogether on busy days.

Day Parking & Overnight Laws

• Day Parking:
  Metered and time-limited parking is available throughout the CBD and North Hobart. Oversized vehicles should avoid underground or multi-storey carparks due to height restrictions (usually 2.1m max).

• Overnight Parking:
  Hobart does not permit overnight stays in public carparks, reserves, or rest areas. Rangers regularly patrol popular spots around Sandy Bay, Battery Point, and the waterfront.

• Legal Overnight Options:
  Use official caravan parks like Discovery, Snug, or Seven Mile Beach. Council-run options such as South Arm RSL Foreshore Camping allow for low-cost stays in self-contained RVs.

Local Driving Rules

• Speed Limits:

  • Residential and urban areas: 50 km/h

  • School zones: 40 km/h

  • Regional highways: 80–100 km/h

  • Always obey signage in construction zones and rural towns

• Wildlife Warnings:
  Wallabies, wombats, and kangaroos are common around dawn and dusk—particularly south of Kingston and along the Tasman Peninsula. Slow down and stay alert when driving at night.

• No Toll Roads:
  Tasmania has zero toll roads, which makes budgeting and navigation easier.

• Road Conditions:
  Expect winding, narrow roads in coastal and mountain regions. Use low gears when descending from Mount Wellington or through Huon Valley hills.

Parking Fines to Avoid

• Don’t park overnight in beach carparks or suburban reserves

• Avoid obstructing footpaths or driveways in residential areas

• Check signs near waterfronts—many have “no camping” rules after 10 pm

• Don’t discharge greywater onto roadsides or into stormwater drains

Tip: Use WikiCamps to verify where overnight stays are allowed, and always have a backup campground in mind—Tasmania is popular, and sites can fill quickly.

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do

Hobart is a compact city with an impressive mix of natural beauty, culture, food, and adventure—all easily reachable in a day trip from your campground. Whether you’re into scenic drives, hands-on wildlife encounters, or world-class art, you’ll find it all within an RV-friendly distance of the city centre.

National Parks & Nature

Mount Wellington (kunanyi)

• A must-visit for every RV traveller in Hobart. You can drive to the summit (1,271m) on a sealed road—allow 30–40 minutes from the CBD.

• On clear days, the panoramic views are incredible. Be cautious of wind and icy conditions, especially in winter and spring.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary – Brighton

• Just 30 minutes north of the city, Bonorong offers close encounters with Tasmanian devils, wombats, and kangaroos.

• Ample parking for motorhomes. Great for families.

South Arm Peninsula

• Underrated gem with quiet beaches, birdwatching, and foreshore camping at the South Arm RSL.

• Ideal for relaxed day trips or peaceful overnight stays.

Bruny Island (via ferry)

• You can take your campervan across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel via the Kettering–Bruny Island ferry (book early in peak season).

• Once there, visit Adventure Bay, The Neck lookout, and local produce stops like Bruny Island Cheese Co.

Scenic Drives

Huon Valley Loop

• Drive south through Grove, Huonville, and Franklin. Orchards, forest walks, and riverside picnic spots await. Continue on to Cygnet or even Geeveston for a longer route.

Channel Highway to Margate & Cygnet

• Coastal alternative to Huon Valley. Stop at roadside cafés, boat ramps, and weekend markets.

East Coast to Triabunna

• A full-day trip northeast along the Tasman Highway to the seaside village of Triabunna—gateway to Maria Island. Smooth roads, ocean views, and rural farmland along the way.

Pet-Friendly Places

• Seven Mile Beach – Off-leash zones, flat walking, and close to several caravan parks

• South Arm Beach – Long, dog-friendly shoreline with camping nearby

• Local Cafés – Many outdoor cafés in Battery Point, North Hobart, and Kingston welcome dogs (e.g., Machine Laundry Café, Room for a Pony)

Family-Friendly Activities

Salamanca Market (Saturdays)

• Hobart’s most iconic market with local produce, handmade goods, and street performers. Arrive early to find legal parking nearby—no overnight stays permitted.

Mawson’s Replica Hut

• Located near the waterfront, this museum-quality replica of a historic Antarctic hut fascinates both kids and adults.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

• Peaceful walking tracks, plant collections, Japanese garden, and picnic lawns. Easy RV parking along Lower Domain Road.

Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery

• Free entry, interactive exhibits, and a great rainy-day option.

Local Food & Events

• MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) – World-famous museum with RV parking in overflow lots (but avoid peak hours).

• Cascade Brewery – Australia’s oldest brewery, offering tours and tastings at its picturesque foothill location.

• Farm Gates & Food Trucks – Try produce stalls in Huon Valley and gourmet trucks in Margate and Franklin.

• Taste of Tasmania Festival – Held during the New Year period (check dates), featuring local food, wine, and music on Hobart’s waterfront.

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Hobart

Hobart is a welcoming and relaxed city for road trippers, but like any good RV destination, a few insider tips can go a long way toward making your journey smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Here are 10 expert-level tips to help you navigate Tasmania’s capital with ease:

1. Book Early During Summer Peak

December through February is high season in Tasmania. Campgrounds, rentals, and Bruny Island ferry bookings fill up quickly—secure your spot at least 6–8 weeks in advance.

2. Expect Cold Nights Year-Round

Even in summer, Hobart’s evenings can be cool—especially at higher altitudes like Mount Wellington or bush camps inland. Pack warm bedding or choose a campervan with built-in heating.

3. Avoid Bringing Your RV Into the CBD on Weekends

Hobart’s city centre has limited RV parking and narrow streets. On Saturdays during Salamanca Market, parking is almost impossible—use public transport or base at nearby parks like Barilla or Showground.

4. Use WikiCamps to Track Fire Bans and Camp Legality

Summer in Tasmania comes with bushfire risk. Free camping is only legal in certain zones. Use WikiCamps to check council permissions and seasonal fire alerts before lighting a campfire or using a gas stove.

5. Don’t Rely on Late-Night Fuel or Food

Most fuel stations and supermarkets in Hobart close early compared to mainland cities. Stock up in advance if you plan to arrive late or head into the Huon, East Coast, or Bruny Island.

6. Plan for Ferry Travel to Bruny Island

If taking your camper to Bruny Island, be aware of size and weight limits on the ferry. Check pricing and schedules at: https://www.sealinkbrunyisland.com.au/

7. Use Barilla Holiday Park for a First or Last Night Stay

Just 5 minutes from Hobart Airport and most RV depots, Barilla is ideal for first-night setups or prepping for your return. It also has on-site food and spa facilities.

8. Always Check Mount Wellington Road Conditions

Weather changes quickly on the mountain, and the road to the summit often closes due to snow or wind—even in spring. Visit: https://www.wellingtonpark.org.au/

9. Bring a Compact Shopping Trolley or Backpack

Hobart’s city centre is walkable, and many campgrounds are near buses. If you’re travelling without a tow vehicle, having a shopping bag on wheels is useful for market days and groceries.

10. Download Maps Offline Before Leaving Town

Signal drops off quickly once you leave urban Hobart. Use offline navigation on Google Maps, CamperMate, or WikiCamps for driving to campsites or planning fuel stops.

How Hobart Compares to Other RV Destinations

Tasmania’s capital may be small, but when it comes to RV travel, Hobart holds its own against some of Australia’s biggest and most iconic cities. While it doesn’t offer tropical beaches or sprawling urban RV parks, it delivers something many road trippers crave—peace, accessibility, and connection to nature. Let’s break down how Hobart compares to other major RV cities across Australia.

Hobart vs Sydney

• Driving Ease: Hobart is far more RV-friendly. There’s little traffic, wide suburban roads, and no tolls. Sydney, while scenic, is congested, expensive to park in, and stressful to navigate.

• Camping Options: Hobart offers bushland, beachside, and suburban caravan parks within 30 minutes of the CBD. Sydney has limited inner-city camping and higher costs.

• Atmosphere: Sydney is energetic and cosmopolitan; Hobart is relaxed, compact, and slow-paced—ideal for RV travellers seeking a quieter experience.

Hobart vs Melbourne

• Nature Access: Hobart wins here—Mount Wellington, river valleys, and the coastline are right on the doorstep. Melbourne’s nature escapes often require longer drives.

• Culture & Food: Both cities are food-focused. Melbourne leans more urban and trendy, while Hobart offers artisan markets, small-batch produce, and a strong farm-to-table scene.

• Seasonal Conditions: Hobart is colder overall but more predictable. Melbourne’s weather is famously variable—four seasons in a day isn’t just a saying.

Hobart vs Brisbane

• Scenery: Brisbane is river-based with a subtropical climate; Hobart offers alpine, coastal, and forest landscapes—all compact and easy to explore in a van.

• Free Camping: Brisbane has stricter council enforcement. Hobart offers better access to low-cost and nature-based camping options, especially around South Arm and Huon.

• Cost of Travel: Hobart is generally cheaper for campgrounds, parking, and local attractions.

Hobart vs Adelaide

• Size & Traffic: Both cities are manageable by RV, with little congestion. Hobart is smaller and more intimate, making day trips and short drives a breeze.

• Access to Wine & Food: Adelaide is closer to major wine regions like Barossa and McLaren Vale. Hobart excels in boutique distilleries, oysters, and cool-climate wines.

• Camping Choices: Hobart offers better access to riverside and bush camps, while Adelaide leans more toward inland and beach options.

Hobart vs Perth

• Driving Conditions: Hobart has narrower, winding roads outside the city, but less traffic overall. Perth has wider roads and good RV infrastructure but longer distances between attractions.

• Climate: Perth is hot and dry in summer; Hobart is cool, often damp, but lush. Hobart appeals to those seeking a more temperate escape.

• Adventure: Perth suits long-haul outback adventurers. Hobart suits shorter, varied scenic loops—ideal for a 1- to 2-week trip.

Final Verdict:
Hobart may not match the scale of mainland capitals, but for self-drive travellers, that’s part of the charm. It combines RV-friendly roads, nearby wilderness, and a creative local culture with fewer crowds and a strong sense of calm. It’s a destination for those who value quality over quantity—and who want to wake up each morning with mountain air, not city noise.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

RV travel in Hobart is not just about seeing Tasmania’s capital—it’s about experiencing the slow, scenic rhythm of island life. Whether you’re pulling into a riverside site in Glenorchy, taking in sunrise on Seven Mile Beach, or curling up in your van after a windswept trip to Mount Wellington, Hobart offers an RV journey grounded in beauty, simplicity, and soul.

The city is compact enough to explore without hassle, yet diverse enough to keep you curious for days. Within 30 minutes, you can be wine tasting in the Huon, boarding a ferry to Bruny Island, or standing in a eucalyptus forest wondering how you got so lucky. Hobart doesn’t demand you rush—it invites you to roam.

For seasoned grey nomads, vanlife couples, families, and international adventurers alike, Hobart delivers a complete and deeply memorable self-drive experience. Thoughtfully located parks, a growing network of RV services, and that unmistakable Tassie charm make it easy to settle in and even harder to leave.

So prep your gear, plan your loop, and leave room for the unexpected. Because RV travel in Hobart is less about ticking off landmarks—and more about how it makes you feel as you go.