Tasmania Camper Itinerary: 12 Days Around the Island

A 12 day road trip around Tasmania is the sweet spot for exploring one of Australia’s most captivating islands without rushing. With a campervan or motorhome, you set your own rhythm, wake to the sound of waves or birdsong, and watch the landscape change from sparkling beaches to ancient rainforest to alpine peaks. This guide gives you a complete, practical, and inspiring itinerary for driving a full loop of Tasmania, along with tips on campsites, distances, budget, and seasonal advice. By the end, you will know exactly how to plan and book a Tasmania camper itinerary that delivers big scenery, close wildlife encounters, and indulgent food and wine.

Whether you fly into Hobart and pick up a camper or sail across on the Spirit of Tasmania with your own vehicle, this route is designed to maximize your 12 days while keeping the driving enjoyable. Tasmania’s roads can be winding and narrow outside of cities, so we balance iconic highlights with drive times that most travelers find comfortable.

Ready to circumnavigate the island in style? Let’s map it out.

Why a Campervan Road Trip in Tasmania Works

• Compact distances with huge variety: white sand beaches, granite mountains, temperate rainforest, historic villages, and rugged coastlines all within a few hours.
• Freedom to linger: if the light is perfect at Wineglass Bay or the penguins are waddling ashore in Bicheno, you can change plans on the spot.
• A strong network of campgrounds: national park campgrounds, beachfront free camps, and well-equipped holiday parks with hot showers and power.
• Great for food lovers: stock your camper fridge with farm cheese, oysters, pinot noir, and berries straight from local producers.
• Value for money: self-catering and free or low-cost camps help stretch the budget without compromising the experience.

Tip: Mobile coverage can be patchy in remote regions. Download offline maps and confirm campground bookings before you lose signal.

Route Overview

This 12 day loop starts and ends in Hobart, runs the classic East Coast route to Freycinet and the Bay of Fires, cuts inland to Launceston and Cradle Mountain, arcs along the North West to Stanley, swings down the wild West Coast to Strahan, then returns to Hobart through the Central Highlands and Mount Field. On the final day, take a Bruny Island day trip or linger in Hobart’s markets and museums.

Driving distances are approximate and based on typical routes. Tasmania’s roads are winding and wildlife is active at dawn and dusk, so allow more time than the distance suggests.

• Total loop distance: about 1,400 to 1,700 kilometers depending on detours
• Ideal travel season: October to April for long days and settled weather

The 12 Day Itinerary at a Glance

1. Hobart arrival and waterfront
2. Hobart to Freycinet National Park via the East Coast
3. Freycinet National Park and Wineglass Bay
4. Freycinet to Bay of Fires
5. Bay of Fires to Launceston
6. Launceston to Cradle Mountain
7. Cradle Mountain hikes and wildlife
8. Cradle Mountain to Stanley and The Nut
9. Stanley to Strahan via the North West
10. Strahan and the Gordon River
11. Strahan to Lake St Clair, then Mount Field
12. Hobart or Bruny Island day trip and departure

Campervan Hire and Trip Essentials

• Picking up your camper: Hobart and Launceston have the widest range of campervan and motorhome rentals. Book early for summer and school holidays.
• Vehicle choice: couples love compact campervans for easier parking, while families appreciate motorhomes with onboard bathrooms and heating.
• National Park Pass: purchase an 8 week holiday vehicle pass online or at visitor centers. This covers entry to all national parks but not overnight campground fees.
• Free camping versus holiday parks: free and low-cost camps are abundant, especially on the East Coast. Holiday parks offer power, laundry, hot showers, and playgrounds.
• Fuel and supplies: supermarkets and fuel are common on the East Coast and in cities, less frequent on the West Coast. Fill up before long stretches and carry extra water.
• Safety: drive on the left. Watch for wallabies and wombats, especially around sunrise and sunset. Avoid driving at night outside cities if possible.

12 Day Tasmania Campervan Itinerary: Day by Day

Day 1: Arrive in Hobart

• Driving: short city driving only
• Highlights: Salamanca Place, Battery Point, MONA or Cascade Brewery, kunanyi Mount Wellington
• Suggested camp: Discovery Parks Hobart or Seven Mile Beach for a quiet coastal night

Touch down in Hobart and collect your camper. Wander the historic warehouses of Salamanca Place, then meander through the lanes of Battery Point where cottages spill roses over white picket fences. If you arrive on a Saturday, Salamanca Market buzzes with local artisans and produce.

Time permitting, drive the sealed road to the summit of kunanyi Mount Wellington for a sweeping view of the Derwent River and the city. Prefer art and architecture? The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) shatters expectations with provocative displays and a stunning riverside setting. For a classic Tasmanian welcome, book ahead for Cascade Brewery or Lark Distillery tastings.

Pro tip: Stock up on groceries here. You will find the best selection and prices in Hobart.

Day 2: Hobart to Freycinet National Park

• Distance and time: about 185 kilometers, 2.5 to 3 hours
• Route: Tasman Highway via Orford and Swansea
• Highlights: Spiky Bridge, Kate’s Berry Farm, Coles Bay sunset
• Camps: Freycinet National Park Richardson’s Beach campground (book early), or BIG4 Iluka at Coles Bay. Free option at Friendly Beaches campground

Follow coastal curves north past turquoise coves and rural pastures. Pull over at Spiky Bridge near Swansea, a quirky convict-era construction. Treat yourself at Kate’s Berry Farm for scones and jam with a view.

Roll into Coles Bay by mid afternoon. Settle the van, then take the short walk to Honeymoon Bay or Sleepy Bay for orange lichen boulders and glassy water. As the sun sinks, head to Richardson’s Beach or the jetty for one of Tasmania’s most photogenic sunsets.

Day 3: Freycinet National Park

• Driving: minimal
• Highlights: Wineglass Bay Lookout, Hazards Beach Circuit, Cape Tourville, Oyster tasting
• Camps: stay a second night in Freycinet

Start early for the Wineglass Bay Lookout walk. It is a steady climb on a well-formed track with granite steps. Continue down to the beach if you have the energy. For a spectacular circuit, link Wineglass Bay to Hazards Beach and return along the coast.

Prefer a shorter loop? Cape Tourville Lighthouse has a flat, easy boardwalk with huge views across the Tasman Sea. To savor the area’s flavors, book an oyster tasting with Freycinet Marine Farm and a dinner at a Coles Bay bistro.

Photography tip: Wineglass Bay is best in morning light, and Cape Tourville shines at sunset.

Day 4: Freycinet to Bay of Fires

• Distance and time: about 170 kilometers, 2.5 hours
• Route: Coles Bay Road back to the Tasman Highway via Bicheno and St Helens
• Highlights: Bicheno blowhole and penguin tours, Scamander beaches, Bay of Fires orange boulders
• Camps: Cosy Corner North or South, Swimcart Beach, or Policemans Point free camps near Binalong Bay. For amenities, stay in St Helens or Binalong Bay holiday parks

Consider a penguin tour in Bicheno if traveling outside the warmest months. Continue to St Helens for supplies, then drive toward Binalong Bay where sugar-white sand meets neon-blue water. The Bay of Fires is a spectacular free camping region with multiple beachfront options. Arrive early to secure a site in peak season.

Spend the afternoon rock hopping, swimming, and soaking in the quiet beauty. The water is clear and refreshing in summer, brisk in shoulder seasons.

Day 5: Bay of Fires to Launceston

• Distance and time: about 160 kilometers, 2.5 hours
• Route: Tasman Highway inland via Pyengana and Derby
• Highlights: St Columba Falls, Pyengana Dairy, Derby mountain bike town, Cataract Gorge in Launceston
• Camps: Discovery Parks Hadspen, Launceston Holiday Park Legana, or free camp at Lilydale Falls if you prefer a nature setting outside town

Take a short detour to St Columba Falls, one of Tasmania’s tallest, then sample farmhouse cheddar at Pyengana Dairy. Derby is a mountain biking mecca. Even non-riders love a stroll and coffee here.

Arrive in Launceston by mid afternoon. Walk the scenic Cataract Gorge, cross the suspension bridge, and ride the chairlift for a gentle thrill. Eat in the city tonight. Launceston’s restaurants and wine bars are excellent, showcasing Tamar Valley produce.

Day 6: Launceston to Cradle Mountain

• Distance and time: about 140 kilometers, 2 hours
• Route: Highway via Sheffield
• Highlights: Sheffield’s mural town, Devils @ Cradle nocturnal encounter, alpine chalet ambiance
• Camps: Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain, Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain Highlands, or the national park campground near the visitor center

Stock up on supplies in Launceston. The closer you get to Cradle Mountain, the more limited options become. Stop in Sheffield for colorful street murals and a bakery treat.

Check in near the Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre. Park your camper and use the shuttle buses that run into the national park. If you want a memorable wildlife experience, book Devils @ Cradle for an evening feeding of Tasmanian devils and quolls.

Pack warm layers. Even in summer, Cradle Mountain’s weather can be cool and changeable.

Day 7: Cradle Mountain Day Hikes

• Driving: minimal
• Highlights: Dove Lake Circuit, Marion’s Lookout, Enchanted Walk, wombat spotting at Ronny Creek
• Camps: second night at Cradle Mountain

Choose your adventure based on weather and fitness:

• Easy and iconic: Dove Lake Circuit is a superb track around glacial water with views of Cradle Mountain’s jagged skyline.
• Moderate: Marion’s Lookout via the Wombat Pool track gives a jaw-dropping vantage-point. The track is steep in places.
• Family friendly: Enchanted Walk is short, mossy, and enchanting.

Wildlife is often spotted near dusk around Ronny Creek. Keep a respectful distance and never feed animals.

Day 8: Cradle Mountain to Stanley

• Distance and time: about 190 kilometers, 2.5 to 3 hours
• Route: back to the Bass Highway via Burnie
• Highlights: Stanley village, The Nut chairlift or steep walk, historic Highfield House, sunset from The Nut
• Camps: Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park near the water, or camp at Godfreys Beach

The fishing village of Stanley feels like a movie set, tucked under a volcanic plug known as The Nut. Walk or take the chairlift to the top for 360 degree views of Bass Strait and rolling farmland. The historic Highfield House offers a window into the region’s colonial past. Stanley’s seafood is first-rate. Order scallops, crayfish in season, and Tasmanian pinot.

Day 9: Stanley to Strahan

• Distance and time: about 330 to 370 kilometers, 4.5 to 5.5 hours
• Route: Bass Highway to Zeehan, then south to Strahan
• Highlights: Hellyer Gorge, Tullah lakes, Henty Dunes, Ocean Beach
• Camps: Strahan Holiday Retreat, BIG4 Strahan, or Macquarie Heads campground for a rustic waterfront spot

This is your longest drive day, rewarded by the wild West Coast. Stop at Hellyer Gorge for a rainforest leg stretch. The landscape shifts to moody rivers, mirror lakes, and epic dunes.

Arrive in Strahan on Macquarie Harbour, a classic timber and fishing town. Walk the waterfront and book tomorrow’s Gordon River cruise. For sunset, head to Ocean Beach to watch waves crash on the wild edge of the continent.

Optional detour: With an extra day, the Tarkine Drive loop takes you through ancient rainforest, windswept coastline, and the tiny settlement of Corinna on the Pieman River.

Day 10: Strahan and the Gordon River, then to Lake St Clair

• Distance and time: cruise in the morning, then about 180 kilometers, 3 hours to Lake St Clair
• Highlights: Gordon River cruise, Sarah Island convict site, Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers scenery, Nelson Falls
• Camps: Lake St Clair campground inside the national park, or Derwent Bridge Wilderness Hotel for basic facilities

Take the famous Gordon River cruise. Boats glide quietly through mirrored tannin waters under World Heritage temperate rainforest. Most cruises include a guided walk on Sarah Island, which brings to life the harsh convict history of the West Coast.

After lunch, drive east through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Stop at Nelson Falls for a short boardwalk. Arrive at Lake St Clair, Australia’s deepest natural lake and the southern end of the Overland Track.

Day 11: Lake St Clair to Mount Field, then Hobart

• Distance and time: about 120 kilometers to Mount Field, 1.5 hours, then another 75 to 90 minutes to Hobart
• Highlights: Short walks at Lake St Clair, Russell Falls and Tall Trees walk at Mount Field, New Norfolk antiques and apple orchards
• Camps: Mount Field campground if you prefer a quieter final night, or head to a Hobart holiday park to be closer to tomorrow’s activities

Spend a peaceful morning on the Watersmeet or Larmairremener tabelti tracks at Lake St Clair, then continue to Mount Field. Russell Falls is a perfect forest walk under towering tree ferns and stringybarks. The Tall Trees boardwalk showcases some of the tallest flowering plants on Earth. In summer, the alpine Tarn Shelf is a brilliant half-day hike.

Drive to Hobart for the night, stopping in New Norfolk for local produce and river views.

Day 12: Hobart or Bruny Island Day Trip, Depart

• Distance and time: Hobart to Kettering ferry terminal about 40 minutes, ferry crossing about 20 minutes, then 60 to 90 minutes each way to South Bruny attractions
• Highlights: Bruny Island Neck lookout, Adventure Bay, Jetty Beach, Bruny Island cheese and oysters, or stay in Hobart for MONA and markets

If you have a full final day, Bruny Island is a showstopper. Climb the steps at The Neck for a panoramic view of the isthmus, taste local cheeses and oysters, and relax at Jetty Beach or The Pines at Cloudy Bay. The island’s wildlife is abundant. Drive carefully.

Prefer to keep it simple? Stay in Hobart for an early MONA visit, sip coffee on the waterfront, and browse Brooke Street Pier before returning your camper.

Drop off your vehicle and celebrate an epic lap of Tasmania.

Where to Camp Each Night

To make planning easy, here are suggested campgrounds for each stop. Always check opening dates, capacity, and booking rules.

• Day 1 Hobart: Discovery Parks Hobart or Seven Mile Beach Holiday Park
• Days 2 to 3 Freycinet: Richardson’s Beach or Honeymoon Bay (bookings essential in season), or BIG4 Iluka at Coles Bay
• Day 4 Bay of Fires: Cosy Corner North or South, Swimcart Beach, Policemans Point free camps
• Day 5 Launceston: Discovery Parks Hadspen, Launceston Holiday Park Legana, or Lilydale Falls free camp
• Days 6 to 7 Cradle Mountain: Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain, Discovery Parks Highlands, or the national park campground
• Day 8 Stanley: Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park or Godfreys Beach
• Days 9 to 10 Strahan region: Strahan Holiday Retreat, BIG4 Strahan, or Macquarie Heads for a rustic stay
• Day 11 Mount Field or Hobart: Mount Field Campground, or a Hobart holiday park
• Day 12 Bruny Island option: The Neck campground, Jetty Beach, or The Pines at Cloudy Bay if you add an extra night

Note: Many national park campgrounds are first come first served. Arrive by early afternoon in peak periods. Some sites are suitable for smaller campervans only. Generator use is often restricted.

Best Time to Visit and How to Plan

• Summer, December to February: warmest weather, long daylight, peak crowds and higher demand for campsites. Book major experiences and holiday parks well in advance.
• Spring and autumn, September to November and March to April: ideal temperatures, fewer crowds, vibrant wildflowers in spring and glowing foliage in April.
• Winter, May to August: snow dusts the mountains and crowds vanish. Expect cold nights, occasional road closures in alpine areas, and short daylight hours. Choose a camper with good heating.

Key dates: School holidays and public holiday weekends are busy. The Taste of Summer and MONA FOMA add energy to Hobart in late December and January.

Budget: What a 12 Day Tasmania Camper Trip Costs

Costs vary by season and vehicle type, but this ballpark helps you plan.

• Campervan or motorhome hire: 100 to 350 AUD per day in shoulder season, 200 to 500 AUD per day in peak for larger motorhomes
• Fuel: 300 to 600 AUD for the loop, depending on vehicle size and side trips
• Campgrounds: free to 50 AUD per night. Holiday parks with power and showers average 35 to 55 AUD
• National Parks Pass: about 80 AUD for an 8 week holiday vehicle pass
• Activities: Gordon River cruise 110 to 160 AUD per adult, Devils @ Cradle 30 to 50 AUD, Bruny Island cruises 145 to 185 AUD
• Food and drink: self-catering keeps costs down. Build in treats like seafood, wineries, and bakeries

Money saving tips:

• Mix free camps with paid holiday parks for showers and laundry every few days.
• Cook most meals in your camper, splurge on a few standout restaurants.
• Book big ticket tours early for advance purchase discounts.

Driving and Safety Tips

• Drive on the left. Tasmanian roads are curvy with narrow shoulders. Keep to speed limits and allow extra time.
• Wildlife is active at dawn and dusk. Slow down in low light and avoid night driving outside towns.
• Fuel up when you can on the West Coast and in remote areas. Carry extra water and check your spare tire.
• Weather changes quickly in alpine zones. Carry layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy footwear.
• Bushfire safety: observe fire bans and use designated fire pits. Gas stoves are widely accepted where fires are restricted.
• Respect the environment. Leave no trace, use dump points for grey and black water, and pack out all rubbish.

Packing Checklist for Tasmania by Camper

• Clothing: quick-dry layers, warm fleece, beanie, gloves for alpine stops, sun hat, swimsuit, rain jacket
• Footwear: sturdy walking shoes, sandals for beach days
• Camper essentials: headlamps, extra power bank, biodegradable soap, dish tub, clothespins, compact clothesline
• Kitchen: reusable coffee cup and water bottle, basic spices, olive oil, resealable containers
• Navigation and safety: offline maps, paper map backup, first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen
• Outdoor kit: daypack, refillable gas canisters, compact camp chairs, picnic rug
• Documents: driver’s license, rental agreement, national park pass, travel insurance

Optional extras:

• Binoculars for wildlife
• Microfiber towels for swims
• Lightweight microspikes in winter for icy trails at Cradle Mountain

Food and Wine Stops You Will Love

• East Coast: Freycinet Marine Farm for oysters, Milton Vineyard or Devil’s Corner Cellar Door for views and pinot
• Pyengana Dairy: farm cheese and the tasty ploughman’s lunch
• Tamar Valley: cool climate wines near Launceston
• Stanley: local crayfish in season and scallop pies
• Bruny Island: cheese, oysters, honey, and whisky

Designated driver rules apply. Enjoy tastings, then retreat to your beachfront camp with a bottle for sunset.

Optional Detours and Swaps

• Maria Island from Triabunna: ferry day trip for wildlife and convict history. Swap for Freycinet if you love quiet walks and heritage sites.
• The Tarkine: add a night at Corinna to explore rainforest and Pieman River cruises. You would remove a city night or make this a 13 day trip.
• Bruny Island overnight: instead of a day trip, spend a night at Jetty Beach or The Pines and add a coastal cruise.

How to Get to Tasmania With a Camper

• Fly into Hobart or Launceston and pick up your rental. This is the simplest option.
• Sail on the Spirit of Tasmania from Geelong to Devonport with your own vehicle. Book early and check gas rules for camper cylinders.

Responsible and Respectful Travel

Tasmania’s landscapes are globally significant and culturally rich. The island is the ancestral home of the palawa people. Treat sacred sites and cultural places with respect, stay on marked tracks, and support local Indigenous-led tours and galleries when you can.

Wildlife is best admired at a distance. Use a zoom lens rather than approaching animals. Seal rookeries and penguin nesting areas are sensitive to disturbance and light. Red light torches are recommended for penguin viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I only have 10 days?

• Skip Stanley and overnight in Strahan for two nights to reduce long drives. Or fly into Launceston, do a North West and Cradle Mountain loop, then finish in Hobart.

Is it easy to find free camps?

• Along the East Coast and in parts of the North, yes. On the West Coast there are fewer options and facilities. Always follow local signage and stay only in designated sites.

Can I drive a motorhome to all the places listed?

• Most stops are accessible with a standard rental motorhome. Some beachside free camps are best for compact campers. Check road and campsite suitability before entering.

Do I need a 4WD?

• No. The itinerary uses sealed roads and short, well maintained gravel stretches. A 2WD camper is fine.

Will I have phone and internet coverage?

• Good around cities and the East Coast. Expect limited coverage in parts of the West Coast, Cradle Mountain, and national parks.

What about weather and snow?

• Alpine areas can be cold year-round. Snow and ice are possible in winter. Check road conditions and carry warm gear. Coastal areas are milder.

The Sales Pitch You Can Believe In

Tasmania rewards curiosity. In 12 days you can sip pinot on a clifftop, stare into a rainforest river that mirrors the sky, watch wallabies nibble at dusk, and fall asleep to the rhythm of waves beyond your camper door. You control the pace. You choose the view out your window every morning.

Book your camper early for peak months, secure your national park pass, and reserve key experiences like the Gordon River cruise and Freycinet camping. Then set the satnav for open roads, slow down for scenic detours, and let the island work its unhurried magic.

Conclusion: Your 12 Day Tasmania Camper Itinerary Awaits

A full island loop in 12 days hits Tasmania’s greatest hits without feeling frantic. This itinerary balances short drives with rich experiences across the East Coast, the alpine heartland, the North West, and the wild West Coast. It gives you clear nightly camp suggestions, practical tips for safe driving and budgeting, and the flexibility to linger longer when a place steals your heart.

Start in Hobart. End with a camera full of sunsets, a head full of mountain air, and a promise to return. Tasmania is built for road trips. With a camper and a smart plan, it is yours to explore.