RV Travel in Tasmania – The Complete Guide

Tasmania is where road trips become stories. A place where every turn reveals something breathtaking — misty forests, empty beaches, rolling farmland, or snow-capped mountains. For RV travellers, this island state is a dream: compact enough to explore slowly and thoroughly, yet wild and diverse enough to feel like you’ve travelled much further than the map suggests.

Whether you’re parking under the stars beside Cradle Mountain, waking up to the surf at Bay of Fires, or winding your way through Huon Valley’s apple orchards, Tasmania serves up one unforgettable stop after another. With quiet highways, welcoming towns, and a culture that embraces slow travel and nature connection, it’s no wonder vanlifers, grey nomads, and overseas visitors are drawn here year after year.

Best of all? Tasmania is made for road travel. With well-signed scenic drives, national park campgrounds, and dozens of community-run rest areas, it offers freedom with just the right amount of support. If you’re after peace, wild beauty, and a journey off the beaten path, Tasmania is where your RV adventure should begin.

What Makes Tasmania a Great RV Destination?

Tasmania may be small by Australian standards, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in spectacular variety, natural beauty, and road-trip charm. For RV travellers, this island state offers a unique combination of accessible infrastructure, dramatic landscapes, low-traffic roads, and a culture that embraces the freedom of the open road.

Whether you’re chasing white-sand beaches, remote mountain peaks, heritage towns, or fresh farmgate produce, you can access it all in a well-planned loop. Unlike the vast distances of mainland states, Tasmania rewards slow travel — you can explore at a relaxed pace without burning days on long-haul drives.

Compact but Wild

One of the biggest advantages of RVing in Tasmania is its geographic compactness. Most major destinations are only a few hours apart, yet the terrain between them feels wildly diverse — alpine plateaus, temperate rainforests, windswept coasts, and open farmland all within a day’s reach.

You could be sipping Pinot Noir in the Tamar Valley one day and hiking to Wineglass Bay the next. This makes it easy to balance driving with downtime — the perfect combo for families, grey nomads, and long-term travellers alike.

Four Real Seasons, Four Unique Journeys

Tasmania experiences a full four-season climate, which makes it a year-round RV destination — with each season offering something completely different:

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Best for beach lovers and first-time visitors. Camp by the coast, explore national parks, and enjoy long daylight hours.

• Autumn (Mar–May): The highlands light up with golden foliage. Fewer crowds, perfect temperatures, and quiet campgrounds.

• Winter (Jun–Aug): Ideal for whisky trails, snowy peaks, and off-peak pricing. Expect cold nights and some icy roads — pack warm.

• Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers bloom, waterfalls surge, and wildlife is active. A great time to visit the West and North West coasts.

Because the island is cooler than mainland states, even summer temperatures are comfortable for RV travel — ideal for exploring with pets or young children.

A Traveller-Friendly Vibe

Tasmania’s locals understand tourism — and more importantly, they understand road travellers. Many towns offer free or low-cost camping areas, often managed by the local council or community group. These spots are usually clean, quiet, and within walking distance to town centres, which helps travellers stay connected while saving money.

The state also has an excellent network of national park campgrounds, some paid and some free, offering a more immersive experience for those with self-contained vehicles. Add in the friendly faces at visitor centres, a growing number of eco-conscious travel businesses, and well-marked scenic drives, and you’ve got a destination that truly embraces vanlife.

Where to Rent an RV in Tasmania

Whether you’re flying in for a road trip or starting your journey after arriving by ferry, Tasmania offers a range of high-quality RV, campervan, and motorhome hire options. Most rental depots are located in Hobart, Launceston, or near the Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal in Devonport, making it easy to start your adventure no matter where you land.

Here are five of the most trusted RV rental companies operating in Tasmania:

1. Cruisin’ Motorhomes – Cambridge (near Hobart Airport)

Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth campervans and motorhomes
Why Choose Cruisin’: Tasmania’s most established RV hire brand, with a modern fleet, airport transfers, and great long-term hire deals. Ideal for couples, families, and international visitors.
Visit website: https://www.cruisinmotorhomes.com.au

2. Tasmanian Campervan Rentals – Cambridge

Vehicle Types: Budget campervans, 2–4 berth, compact builds
Why Choose Tasmanian Campervan Rentals: Locally owned business offering affordable vans with a personalised approach. Great for backpackers and budget-conscious travellers.
Visit website: https://www.tasmaniancampervanrentals.com.au

3. LeisureRent – Hobart & Launceston

Vehicle Types: 2–6 berth motorhomes and campervans
Why Choose LeisureRent: Clean, fuel-efficient vehicles with unlimited kilometres and two convenient depot locations. Good for one-way hires and flexible travel.
Visit website: https://www.leisurerent.com.au

4. AutoRent Hertz – Hobart & Launceston

Vehicle Types: Modern campervans, motorhomes, station wagons with tents
Why Choose AutoRent: Strong national brand support with the reliability of Hertz. Well-maintained vehicles and additional extras like camping kits and GPS.
Visit website: https://www.autorent.com.au

5. GoCheap Campervans – Hobart

Vehicle Types: 2–4 berth budget campervans
Why Choose GoCheap: A division of Cruisin’ that offers economy rentals for budget travellers. Older but well-maintained vehicles with full amenities.
Visit website: https://www.gocheapcampervans.com.au

RV Rental Tips for Travelling in Tasmania

No Toll Roads

• Tasmania has no toll roads, making driving simpler and cheaper than in mainland states.

Winter Readiness

• If travelling between May and September, choose a vehicle with diesel heating or insulation, especially if heading to the Central Highlands, Cradle Mountain, or the West Coast.

Fuel Station Gaps

• Fuel is available in most towns, but the West Coast (Strahan to Queenstown to Derwent Bridge) has fewer options. Always top up before heading inland.

Taking Your Own RV from the Mainland?

• Book passage with the Spirit of Tasmania ferry from Geelong to Devonport.
  Visit: https://www.spiritoftasmania.com.au

  • Book early during peak season

  • Overnight sailings offer cabin or recliner options

  • Tie-downs for large motorhomes provided

Check Inclusions

• Always confirm if bedding, kitchenware, insurance, and unlimited kilometres are included. Also check age limits (usually 21+ to rent a motorhome in Tasmania).

Best RV Parks and Campgrounds in and Around Tasmania

Tasmania offers a wide variety of places to park and stay, from holiday parks with full amenities to peaceful, nature-based campsites in national parks and rural towns. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront sunrise, alpine serenity, or easy walking access to Tasmania’s iconic sights, there’s a campground to match your travel style.

Below are six of the top RV-friendly places to stay around the island.

1. BIG4 St Helens Holiday Park – East Coast

Location: St Helens, near Bay of Fires
Why Stay Here: Excellent family-friendly holiday park close to the coast, and one of the best bases for exploring Binalong Bay and the Bay of Fires Conservation Area.
Facilities: Powered sites, ensuite sites, laundry, playground, BBQs, camp kitchen, dump point
Pet-Friendly: Yes (on powered sites only)
Visit website: https://www.big4.com.au/caravan-parks/tasmania/east-coast/st-helens-holiday-park

2. Discovery Parks – Cradle Mountain

Location: Just outside Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park
Why Stay Here: The most convenient RV base for hiking and exploring Cradle Mountain. Quiet bushland setting with wildlife all around.
Facilities: Powered and unpowered sites, modern amenities block, laundry, kiosk, fire pits
Pet-Friendly: No (due to proximity to national park)
Visit website: https://www.discoveryholidayparks.com.au/tasmania/cradle_mountain/cradle_mountain

3. Swansea Caravan Park – Great Oyster Bay

Location: Swansea, East Coast
Why Stay Here: Absolute beachfront sites with ocean views across to Freycinet Peninsula. Easy access to cafés, local wineries, and the beach.
Facilities: Powered sites, camp kitchen, showers, BBQs, direct beach access
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://www.swanseacaravanpark.com.au

4. Snug Beach Cabin & Caravan Park – South of Hobart

Location: Snug, 30 minutes south of Hobart
Why Stay Here: Peaceful, well-kept park right on the beach. Perfect overnight base before or after a Bruny Island trip.
Facilities: Powered sites, camp kitchen, laundry, dump point, walking track to beach
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://snugbeach.com.au

5. Left of Field Campground – Mount Field National Park

Location: Near the park entrance, 1.5 hrs from Hobart
Why Stay Here: Quirky and creative eco-campground with art installations, a bush bath, and rustic charm. A unique and peaceful stay with access to waterfalls and rainforest trails.
Facilities: Unpowered and powered sites, showers, campfires, composting toilets
Pet-Friendly: Yes (on lead)
Visit website: https://leftoffield.net.au

6. Scottsdale Free RV Park – North East Tasmania

Location: Scottsdale town centre
Why Stay Here: One of Tasmania’s best free council-run campgrounds with level gravel sites, dump point, potable water, and town access.
Facilities: Free stay (max 4 nights), toilets, water, dump point, walking access to shops
Pet-Friendly: Yes
Visit website: https://northeasttasmania.com.au/scottsdale

Additional RV Camping Tips for Tasmania

• Parks Pass Required: To camp or drive into most Tasmanian national parks, you’ll need a valid Parks Pass. Buy online: https://passes.parks.tas.gov.au

• Free Camping: Tasmania has many free and low-cost campgrounds, but most require self-contained RVs. Check council rules and stay no longer than permitted.

• Coastal Hotspots: In summer, places like Coles Bay, Binalong Bay, and Bruny Island fill quickly — book months in advance if staying at serviced parks.

• Campground Discovery Apps: Use WikiCamps or CamperMate to explore current reviews, site photos, and up-to-date closure alerts.

RV Facilities and Essentials in Tasmania

Tasmania is RV-ready — especially for travellers who are prepared and self-contained. With dump points in most towns, potable water refills available throughout the island, and a growing list of repair shops and fuel apps, it’s easy to stay mobile and supported as you explore even the most remote corners of the state.

Dump Points

Tasmania provides an extensive network of public dump points. You’ll find them at:

• Visitor information centres (e.g. Devonport, Deloraine, Huonville)

• Most council-owned RV rest areas

• Holiday parks (usually free for guests, sometimes a fee for non-guests)

Find locations with:

• National Toilet Map: https://toiletmap.gov.au

• WikiCamps: https://www.wikicamps.com.au

Fresh Water Refill Stations

Safe drinking water is accessible across Tasmania at:

• Caravan parks and free RV stops

• Public parks in towns (check signage)

• Council-maintained water stations (usually tap-and-fill)

Tips:

• Carry a food-grade hose and a tap-to-thread adaptor

• Always confirm potability before filling in rural areas

RV-Friendly Fuel Stations

Fuel is easy to find in Tasmania’s north, east, and urban corridors, but you’ll need to plan ahead in more remote regions like the Central Highlands and the West Coast.

Sparse fuel zones include:

• Between Queenstown and Derwent Bridge

• Between St Marys and Bicheno (coastal detours may help)

• Southwest beyond Maydena

Use Fuel Map Australia to track pricing and availability: https://www.fuelmap.com.au

RV Repairs, Servicing & Accessories

If you need repairs, servicing, or gear while on the road, these trusted providers are RV-travel ready:

• Jayco Tasmania – Hobart (Cambridge)
  Full RV servicing and parts
  Visit website: https://www.jaycotas.com.au

• Tassie Motor Shacks – Launceston
  Hire, repairs, camper conversions
  Visit website: https://www.tassiemotorshacks.com.au

• Devonport Auto Electrics – Devonport
  12V systems, solar, fridge repair, diagnostics
  Visit website: https://www.devonportautoelectrics.com.au

• Burnie RV & Caravan Repairs
  Located on the north-west coast — good for West Coast emergencies
  Visit website: https://burniervrepairs.com.au

Must-Have Travel Apps for Tasmania RV Trips

• WikiCamps Australia – Campsite info, dump points, reviews
  https://www.wikicamps.com.au

• CamperMate – Free camps, fuel, attractions, road alerts
  https://www.campermate.com.au

• Fuel Map Australia – Track prices and locations
  https://www.fuelmap.com.au

• Tasmanian Fire Service Alerts – Fire bans, alerts, weather warnings
  https://www.fire.tas.gov.au

• Tasmania Roads and Travel Alerts
  Roadworks, closures, ferry schedules
  https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/news

Bonus: Mobile Coverage & Offline Tools

Tasmania has patchy mobile coverage in national parks, west coast wilderness, and mountainous regions.
Tip: Download offline maps and campground data before heading into:

• Southwest National Park

• Central Highlands

• Tarkine Forest Drive

• Lake St Clair region

A paper map or printed road atlas can be helpful in low-signal areas.

Parking, Driving & Local Regulations in Tasmania

Tasmania’s roads are made for road trips — winding, scenic, and largely free from congestion. But travelling in an RV still comes with a few important rules to know before hitting the road. From CBD parking laws to height restrictions and overnight rules, this section covers everything you need to drive and park confidently across the island.

Can You Drive an RV into Hobart or Launceston?

Yes — most small to medium RVs and campervans can access both cities without trouble. However, city centre parking is limited in height and length. In Hobart, inner-city streets are narrow and often metered with short time limits.

Best options:

• Park on the fringe and walk or use public transport

• Use larger open-air car parks like Princes Wharf Car Park (Hobart) or Bathurst Street Car Park (Launceston) for short stays

• Avoid peak-hour city driving — especially if towing

Day Parking & Overnight Laws

Day Parking:

• Most towns allow RVs to park during the day in designated bays

• Larger rigs may need to park across multiple bays — always check signage

• National parks often have overflow bays or bus zones suitable for RVs

Overnight Parking:

• Legal only at designated free camps, rest areas, or campgrounds

• Many Tasmanian councils offer RV-friendly free or donation camps, but stays are often limited to 24–72 hours

• Strictly no overnighting in supermarket or beach car parks, unless explicitly permitted

Local Driving Rules for RVs

• Drive on the left

• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers

• Unsealed roads are common in national parks and remote areas — check rental contracts for coverage restrictions

• Bridge and tunnel limits: Few major tunnels or low bridges exist, but always note vehicle height before entering car parks or drive-thru facilities

• Winter conditions: Ice and snow are possible between May–Sept in highland areas like Great Lake, Cradle Mountain, and Lake St Clair — use caution or chains where required

Parking Fines to Avoid

Fines in Tasmania can range from $40 to $150+ and are strictly enforced in tourist-heavy areas. Avoid the most common infringements:

• Parking overnight in non-designated zones

• Blocking access roads, driveways, or pedestrian paths

• Failing to display a valid camping or park pass

• Dumping grey water or waste outside approved areas

Road Safety & Travel Alerts

For safe and legal travel:

• Always check fire danger zones in summer before heading bush
  Fire alerts: https://www.fire.tas.gov.au

• Stay updated on road closures, ferry delays, and conditions
  Road alerts: https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/news

• Carry physical maps for backup in no-coverage areas

RV-Friendly Attractions & Things to Do in Tasmania

Tasmania is packed with natural wonders, cultural gems, and off-the-beaten-track stops that are perfect for RV travellers. Whether you’re chasing dramatic coastlines, alpine hikes, pet-friendly beaches, or gourmet food markets, the island delivers an itinerary that’s as flexible as it is unforgettable. Here are the top things to do, with a focus on RV-accessibility, proximity, and parking options.

National Parks & Nature

1. Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park

• Tasmania’s most iconic wilderness area

• RV access via Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre (dedicated parking + shuttle buses to trailheads)

• Stay nearby at Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain or Left of Field (Lake St Clair)

2. Freycinet National Park (Wineglass Bay)

• Pink granite peaks and stunning beach views

• RV parking at park entrance and day-use area

• Best visited from Coles Bay or Swansea

3. Mount Field National Park

• Home to Russell Falls and alpine lakes

• Great for day hikes and short stays

• Left of Field Campground nearby for RVs

4. Southwest National Park

• Remote, untamed wilderness

• Best accessed via the Gordon River Road to Strathgordon (sealed but remote)

• Self-sufficient camping required

Scenic Drives

1. Great Eastern Drive

• From Orford to St Helens: pristine beaches, wineries, and seafood stops

• Highlights: Bicheno blowhole, Friendly Beaches, Bay of Fires

• Ample campgrounds along the way

2. Highland Lakes Road & Central Plateau

• Remote alpine lakes, fishing villages, and wildlife

• Drive between Deloraine and Miena or Bothwell

• Carry extra fuel and check for snow conditions in winter

3. Lyell Highway (Hobart to Queenstown)

• Rainforest-cloaked valleys, waterfalls, and historic mining towns

• Access Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers NP

• Overnight in Derwent Bridge, Lake Burbury, or Queenstown

Pet-Friendly Places

• Snug Beach, Ulverstone Foreshore, and many small-town showgrounds allow dogs

• Hobart’s Knocklofty Reserve and Launceston’s Cataract Gorge (leash required)

• Note: No pets in any Tasmanian national parks — use kennels in Hobart or Launceston if exploring parks for the day

Family-Friendly Activities

• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary (Hobart) – hand-feed kangaroos, meet Tassie devils

• Port Arthur Historic Site – immersive colonial history, RV parking available

• Tahune Adventures (Geeveston) – treetop walks and airbridge over Huon River

• Bruny Island – wildlife cruises, cheese and oyster farms (RVs must take ferry: https://www.searoad.com.au)

Markets, Local Food & Cultural Stops

• Salamanca Market (Hobart, Saturdays) – produce, crafts, and street food

• Harvest Market (Launceston, Saturdays) – meet growers, taste fresh Tassie produce

• Huon Valley – cider, apples, salmon, and riverside cafés

• Tamar Valley Wine Route – cellar doors and scenic drives (good base: Beauty Point or Exeter)

RV Tips for Attractions:

• Use overflow or bus parking zones where available

• Visit early to avoid crowded parking lots at popular spots (especially Freycinet and Cradle Mountain)

• Watch for gravel roads or vehicle size restrictions on access tracks — always check in apps like WikiCamps before committing to a detour

Pro Travel Tips for RVers in Tasmania

Whether you’re touring Tasmania in a hired campervan or your own motorhome, these tips will help you travel smarter, safer, and more enjoyably around the island. From road conditions to camping rules, fuel strategies to seasonal travel insights, these are the hard-earned lessons that make a big difference on the road.

• Book popular sites in advance (especially on the East Coast)

  • Coastal towns like Coles Bay, Binalong Bay, and Bruny Island fill up months ahead during December–February. If you want a powered site or beachfront campground, reserve well in advance.

• Download maps and guides for offline use

  • Tasmania has patchy mobile coverage, particularly in national parks and the West Coast. Apps like WikiCamps and CamperMate allow offline map downloads — essential for remote areas.

• Stock up before remote drives

  • Between Queenstown and Maydena, or on the Tarkine Drive, fuel stations and supermarkets are rare. Carry extra food, water, and top up fuel when you can.

• Use a Parks Pass for national park entry and camping

  • Most parks require a valid Parks Pass, which you can buy online or at visitor centres. A Holiday Vehicle Pass offers the best value for longer trips.
    Website: https://passes.parks.tas.gov.au

• Bring warm gear year-round

  • Even in summer, nights can drop below 10°C in the Highlands or along the coast. Pack thermals, jackets, and beanies — especially if you plan to free camp.

• Stay self-contained for more freedom

  • Many free and low-cost campgrounds are only accessible to self-contained vehicles (with grey water tanks and toilet facilities). Certification is not mandatory, but proper setup is expected.

• Check road conditions before heading out

  • Landslides, snow, or seasonal closures can affect your plans. The Tasmanian government posts real-time alerts here:
    https://www.transport.tas.gov.au/news

• Be fire-smart in summer

  • Fire bans and bushfire alerts are common in dry months. Never light campfires outside designated pits, and check for Total Fire Ban days before you set up.
    Alerts: https://www.fire.tas.gov.au

• Take the ferry to Bruny Island with caution

  • The ferry accepts RVs, but the roads are narrow and winding. Book in advance during school holidays, and allow plenty of time for boarding.

• Respect time limits at free camps

  • Most council-run free camps have 1–3 night stay limits. Rangers do enforce rules, especially in popular zones. Overstaying can result in fines or closures for everyone.

How Tasmania Compares to Other RV Destinations

Tasmania offers a distinctly different RV experience compared to mainland Australia. It’s wilder, cooler, more compact, and far more geared toward slow, scenic travel. If you’re trying to decide how Tasmania stacks up against other popular RV regions, here’s a detailed comparison to help guide your planning.

Tasmania vs Victoria

• Size & Distance: Tasmania is far more compact — you can drive across the state in a day, whereas Victoria’s trips often span multiple days.

• Nature Access: Tasmania leans heavily into wilderness and national parks, while Victoria offers a mix of natural beauty and big-city experiences.

• RV Infrastructure: Victoria has more caravan parks and dump points overall, but Tasmania’s free and low-cost camps are better integrated into nature.

• Road Type: Tasmania has more narrow, winding roads — especially inland and west. Victoria’s highways are generally broader and more direct.

• Best For: Nature lovers, wildlife seekers, and slow travellers will prefer Tasmania; those wanting a city/nature combo may lean toward Victoria.

Tasmania vs Queensland

• Climate: Tasmania is cool to temperate; Queensland is warm to tropical. RVing in Tassie is comfortable even in summer, while Queensland gets hot and humid.

• Landscapes: Tasmania offers alpine peaks, temperate rainforest, and rugged coastlines; Queensland is more about beaches, reefs, and rainforest.

• RV Travel Style: Queensland suits beach-hopping in winter; Tasmania suits full-loop exploration in summer/autumn.

• Cost: Fuel and park fees tend to be lower in Tasmania, but Queensland offers more year-round options.

• Best For: Off-grid campers and cool-climate fans will love Tasmania; sun-seekers and long-haul travellers may prefer Queensland.

Tasmania vs South Australia

• Geography: Tasmania is mountainous and green; South Australia is drier, flatter, with vast desert outback.

• Wineries & Food: Both offer great produce, but Tasmania’s cool-climate wines and seafood are a major highlight.

• Free Camping: SA has more extensive outback free camps; Tasmania’s are mostly near towns and coastlines.

• Driving Ease: South Australia is easier on large motorhomes due to wider roads; Tasmania favours compact rigs.

• Best For: Travellers who want alpine hikes and lush forest will prefer Tasmania; SA is better for remote, rugged desert landscapes.

Tasmania vs Western Australia

• Size & Time: Tasmania can be explored in 10–14 days; WA takes weeks or months to do properly.

• Weather: Tasmania is cool and changeable year-round; WA ranges from Mediterranean to hot desert.

• Infrastructure: WA’s distances are huge, and services sparse. Tasmania is much more accessible and beginner-friendly.

• Nature: WA offers epic scale — coral reefs, red cliffs, wide beaches; Tasmania offers intimacy — misty mountains, waterfalls, ancient forests.

• Best For: RVers who love solitude and remoteness will be drawn to WA; those craving variety and accessibility will find more joy in Tasmania.

Tasmania vs New South Wales

• Crowds: NSW’s coastal hot spots are often crowded, especially near Sydney; Tasmania’s attractions remain relatively quiet and unspoiled.

• Diversity: NSW has ski fields, surf towns, rainforest, and outback — but spread out over vast distances. Tasmania offers incredible diversity in a tight radius.

• Parking & Regulations: Tasmania has more small-town and free camping access; NSW is stricter, especially near the coast.

• Best For: Travellers wanting fewer people, cooler weather, and peaceful landscapes should choose Tasmania; NSW suits year-round travellers and city hoppers.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

RV travel in Tasmania isn’t just about the destinations — it’s about the space between them. The winding drives through misty forests, the stillness of a beachside morning, the sound of rain on your van roof in the highlands. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, explore deeper, and reconnect with nature — all from the comfort of your own mobile base.

For vanlifers chasing coastal sunrises, grey nomads ticking off national parks, or international travellers after a truly local adventure, Tasmania offers a balanced blend of freedom, accessibility, and wilderness. The island may be small, but its variety is immense — alpine lakes, world-class hiking trails, gourmet food regions, and untouched bays all lie within a few hours’ drive of each other.

Plan a little, but leave space for detours. Tasmania is best experienced with curiosity and flexibility — and your RV gives you the perfect platform for both. With the right setup, the right mindset, and the rhythm of the road beneath your wheels, a Tasmanian RV journey can easily become the highlight of your Australian travels.