Free Camping in Tasmania’s State Forests: The “Almost” Complete Guide
If you’re chasing real, off-grid camping with your 4×4 in Tasmania, the State Forests (Permanent Timber Production Zones or PTPZ, managed by Sustainable Timber Tasmania — STT) are your best bet. They offer free dispersed camping with minimal oversight, provided you follow the rules.
1. What Makes Tasmanian State Forests Pop?
Free camping is allowed, unless otherwise signed. These forest areas are primarily for sustainable timber production and are more relaxed than national parks.
No bookings or fees — just roll in, set up camp away from roads or work sites, and enjoy.
Managed as PTPZ (Permanent Timber Production Zone) — they balance forestry with public access. (turn0search4)
2. Key State Forest Areas Where Free Camping Is Known to Be Acceptable
While there's no official master list, several named forest reserves are commonly cited by outdoor communities as accessible and open for bush camping:
Wielangta Forest – Southeast Tasmania, scenic forest drive between Orford and Copping.
Savage River Forest – Northwest Tasmania; look for nearby free sites like Milkshakes Forest Reserve.
Hollybank Forest Reserve – Near Launceston, mixed-use area also popular with mountain bikers.
Tahune Forest Reserve – Southeast, near the famous Tahune Airwalk (check for recent regrowth or closures).
Upper Natone Forest Reserve – Northwest, good 4×4 access into native bush.
Griffin, Brookerana, Jean Brook, Oldina, Springfield — a collection of smaller, named reserves within the forestry zone.
If roads are open and no prohibition signs are present, these forests are generally OK for camping. (turn0search14)
3. What's Off-Limits for Free Camping
National Parks or Nature Reserves: Managed by DPIPWE, require permits and fees.
Parks-managed camping zones: These have booking systems and fixed campsites.
Private lands and picnic areas: Camping is illegal unless clearly designated.
Forest areas with "No Camping" signs: Respect them — forestry activity or ecological protection may be the reason.
4. Free Camping Guide: Rules & Wise Practices
TipWhy It MattersBring everything (water, toilet, fuel)These are bush camps — no infrastructure.Fires only when safeCheck for total fire bans or seasonal rules.Short stays recommendedKeeps the area open for others, safer longer-term.Obey signageTracks can close due to forestry; access may be restricted.Leave no traceThe only way to keep wild camping open in these areas.
5. Downloadable Camping Directory
📥 Download the PDF: [Tasmanian State Forest Reserves (Free Camping)]
It includes the list above, plus notes on permit zones and tips on safe access.
6. Final Word
Tasmania doesn’t come with the predictability of detailed park camping maps like NSW or VIC, but that’s where the adventure lies. The PTPZ State Forests give you freedom, scenery, and solitude — no fees, no reservations, just careful off-road exploration.
Load up your Cruiser, hit one of those named forest areas (like Wielangta or Upper Natone), and enjoy true bush camping.