Whether you start your journey from Hobart or Launceston, a campervan hire makes it simple to circle the island, stop at incredible campsites, and enjoy the comfort of having everything you need right on board. In this guide, we’ll map out the best Tasmania road trips to inspire your next adventure.
Why Choose a Campervan for Tasmania?
1. Flexibility: Tasmania’s attractions are spread across the island, so a campervan allows you to cover more ground while still travelling at your own pace.
2. Convenience: Sleep by the beach, in national parks, or in heritage towns without unpacking and repacking every night.
3. Budget-friendly: Save on hotel costs and dine in your campervan’s kitchen.
4. Accessibility: With rental depots available across Australia, you can collect your campervan directly in Hobart or Launceston.
Top Tasmania Road Trips by Campervan
1. Hobart to Freycinet Peninsula (East Coast Drive)
This iconic coastal drive takes you from Hobart to the sparkling waters of Wineglass Bay.
Highlights
- Historic Richmond with its convict-built bridge.
- The seaside town of Orford for fresh oysters.
- Freycinet National Park, home to Wineglass Bay lookout, kayaking, and wildlife encounters.
Camping spots
Stay at the Freycinet National Park Campground or caravan parks in Coles Bay.
Why it’s perfect for campervans
Plenty of beachfront campsites and powered caravan sites with stunning views.
This route is a fantastic first taste of Tasmania’s coast and ideal for a short break using a campervan rental in Tasmania.
2. The Great Eastern Drive (Orford to Bay of Fires)
Continuing north from Freycinet, the Great Eastern Drive is one of the most picturesque Tasmania road trips.
Highlights
- Bicheno, a family-friendly holiday town with penguin tours.
- St Helens and the world-famous Bay of Fires, known for its orange-tinged rocks and white sand beaches.
Camping spots
Free and low-cost campsites like Cosy Corner North offer beachfront parking for campervans.
Driving tip
Allow at least three days to explore at a leisurely pace.
3. Hobart to Port Arthur & the Tasman Peninsula
History and dramatic landscapes combine on this easy loop from Hobart.
Highlights
- The Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage attraction.
- Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen coastal rock formations.
- White-sand beaches like Fortescue Bay.
Camping spots
Campervan-friendly sites in Fortescue Bay or caravan parks in Port Arthur township.
Perfect for a long weekend, this trip shows how easy it is to explore in a campervan without needing long drives.
4. Launceston to Cradle Mountain
From the city of Launceston, head west to Tasmania’s alpine heart.
Highlights
Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, with iconic Dove Lake walks.
Wildlife spotting including wombats and Tasmanian devils.
Scenic stops at Sheffield, known as the “Town of Murals”.
Camping spots
The Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain offers powered sites for campervans.
Driving tip
Winter can bring snow, so check road conditions if you’re hiring a campervan between June and September.
5. The Western Wilds (Strahan & Queenstown Loop)
For adventurous travellers, Tasmania’s west coast is rugged, remote, and unforgettable.
Highlights
The wilderness harbour town of Strahan.
Gordon River cruises through pristine rainforest .
The mining history and dramatic landscapes of Queenstown.
Camping spots
Caravan parks in Strahan, like BIG4 Strahan Holiday Retreat, or free camps along the Lyell Highway.
Why it’s best by campervan
Limited accommodation options in this region make a self-contained vehicle the ideal choice.
6. The Huon Valley & Bruny Island
South of Hobart lies a slower pace of life, filled with food, wine, and stunning coastlines.
Highlights
Huon Valley cider houses and farm-to-table dining.
Bruny Island, with Adventure Bay, cheese tasting, and penguin viewing.
The southernmost town of Cockle Creek, gateway to the South Coast Track.
Camping spots
Campervan parks in Huonville or beachfront sites on Bruny Island.
This trip is perfect for travellers who love combining gourmet experiences with nature.
7. The Midland Heritage Highway (Hobart to Launceston)
Take the inland route to discover Tasmania’s colonial history.
Highlights
Heritage towns like Ross and Oatlands, with well-preserved sandstone buildings.
Antique shops, bakeries, and historic churches.
Scenic countryside and farmlands.
Camping Spots
There are a range of Caravan parks in Campbell Town or Ross, such as Ross Caravan Park.
This drive is a great way to return your campervan if you’re starting in Hobart and dropping off in Launceston.
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Campervan-Friendly Campsites in Tasmania
Tasmania is well set up for campervan travellers. Some recommended options include:
- BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park – convenient for pick-ups and drop-offs.
- Discovery Parks Cradle Mountain – gateway to alpine walks.
- Bay of Fires Conservation Area – free beachside camping.
- Snug Beach Cabin & Caravan Park – south of Hobart with direct beach access.
Always check whether campsites require pre-booking, particularly during summer holidays.
Practical Tips for Campervan Hire in Tasmania
- Book early: Tasmania is popular during summer (December–February), so secure your campervan in advance.
- Allow time: While Tasmania looks small on the map, winding roads mean drives often take longer than expected.
- Pack for all seasons: Weather can change quickly – bring layers even in summer.
- National Parks Pass: Required for entry into Tasmania’s national parks. Available online or at visitor centres.
- Stay connected: Some areas have limited mobile coverage, so download maps and guides in advance.
Start Your Tasmania Adventure
With so many diverse landscapes packed into one island, Tasmania road trips are unforgettable experiences. From the turquoise bays of the east coast to the alpine peaks of Cradle Mountain and the wild west coast, every corner of Tasmania offers something unique.
By choosing a campervan hire in Tasmania, you’ll have the freedom to design your own journey, sleep under the stars, and make the most of your time on the island.
