For anyone keen on exploring Tasmania’s beauty without breaking the bank, Devonport provides an array of cost-free camping opportunities waiting to be discovered. Whether you’ve just hopped off the Spirit of Tasmania and are looking for a place to spend the night after a long ferry ride or you’re just keen on exploring Devonport, our guide on free camping near Devonport will cover everything you need to know.
In this guide we cover free camping near Devonport with a curated list of the best free campsites that are all within a 30-minute drive of Devonport. We provide details on each free campsite such as their maximum length of stay, whether they allow pets and what facilities they offer. We then also list all of the low-cost campsites that are within 15 minutes of Devonport for any campers who are happy (and able) to spend up to $10 a night.
1. Forth Valley Recreation Ground (Forth)
Cost: Free (Takes Donations).
Distance from Devonport: The Forth Valley Recreation Ground is 9.6km from Devonport which is approximately a 10-15 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: 3 nights.
Ground: Grass.
Facilities: Toilets, bins, barbecues, a playground and picnic tables.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents).
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Nestled in the heart of Forth, the Forth Valley Recreation Ground stands as a tranquil haven for campers who are seeking the convenience of being just a short 10 minute drive away from Devonport. The grassy expanse beside the Forth Recreation Ground offers a welcoming space for campers to set up their ‘temporary home’.
While at first glance the site is nothing particularly outstanding scenery wise (compared to the many jaw-dropping camping sites in Tasmania) the site is peaceful, backs on River Forth and is in the scenic town of Forth. We loved our stay in Forth and went for many beautiful morning walks through Forth and along the river. The campsite is also just a short 5 minute walk away from The Forth Pub. The classic country pub serves up delicious hearty meals, has a fantastic lively atmosphere and hosts regular live music events.
While the Central Coast Council offer this location as a free camping site there is a sign in one of the shelters on site that says that donations are appreciated. Donations can be given at the nearby Forth Village Store.
2. Railton Self Contained RV Park (Railton)
Cost: Free.
Distance from Devonport: The Railton Self Contained RV Park is 23.6km from Devonport which is approximately a 20-25 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Up to 96 hours.
Ground: Gravel.
Facilities: Dump point, potable water tap, bins, outdoor exercise station, picnic bench and shelter.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents).
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Right in the town of Railton, the Railton Self Contained RV Park is another fantastic free camping site near Devonport. While the campsite may not boast the scenic splendour of other camping spots in Tasmania, its appeal lies in its practicality and abundance of amenities. Railton is also a popular spot for mountain bike enthusiasts, as it’s the location of one of the three interconnected trail networks of the Wild Mersey which has over 98km of world-class mountain bike trails.
The campsite became a ‘go-to’ for us at times when we were ‘resetting’ from our recent travels and wanted convenience over aesthetics. Having 24/7 access to a potable water tap, a dump point and bins was incredible, then the bonus of the site being gravel which meant it wouldn’t be bogged and muddy during off-season and days of heavy rain is what made it a standout for us. It was also a great spot to be close to Warrawee Forest which we consider one of the best places to see platypus in Tasmania.
It’s important to note, however, that a train line runs directly behind the campsite. Trains pass the campsite a few times a day and a couple of times during the night. Approaching trains honk just before the road crossing which is approximately 200 metres away from the campsite. While the trains didn’t bother us, if you’re a light sleeper this is something to be mindful of.
3. Nicholson Point (Ulverstone)
Cost: Free.
Distance from Devonport: Nicholson Point is 20.2km from Devonport which is approximately a 15-25 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Up to 48 hours.
Ground: Gravel.
Facilities: None.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents).
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Tucked away in Ulverstone, Nicholson Point unveils a small gravel car park that doubles as a free camping site and boat ramp. Despite its compact size, the site is a great campsite to stay at due to its close proximity to Devonport and beautiful views of River Leven.
The allure of Nicholson Point is enhanced by its convenient proximity to Ulverstone. The town has two major supermarket chains, cafes, restaurants, fast food spots and a laundromat, all just a short walk or drive way. There is also a bike and walking trail that passes through the campsite and along the river. If you’d like to go swimming or get out on the water in a kayak, this campsite provides ample opportunity to do so.
There are a few additional considerations potential visitors should be aware of. The site is popular for day trippers and can be busy during the day. The site is very small which can pose a challenge for larger rigs and caravans, even more so during busy periods when manoeuvring a large setup would be extremely difficult. There is a train line which runs alongside the campsite. While some reviews mention the passing trains being loud, no trains were operating during our 48 hour stay so we had no issues.
Photo on the left is taken from the Fur Kids Around Oz Facebook page and the photo on the right is taken from our stay at Nicholson Point.
4. Midway Point Reserve (Sulphur Creek)
Cost: Free.
Distance from Devonport: The Midway Point Reserve is 33.9km from Devonport which is approximately a 25-30 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Up to 3 days.
Ground: Grass.
Facilities: None.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents).
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Situated in Sulphur Creek, Midway Point Reserve is another picturesque free camping site near Devonport. Situated on a lush grassed area right on the ocean’s edge, this site provides an idyllic setting for those seeking a coastal retreat.
While this free camping site doesn’t have any facilities, it does provide direct access to the ocean, making it a haven for water lovers. The closeness to the ocean provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, surfing and leisurely beach strolls.
Similarly to some of the previous campsites listed, a railway line runs in front of the campsite. The reviews we’ve seen online say the train runs quite infrequently and isn’t a huge disturbance. The campsite also backs onto a main local road, however the road is apparently quiet at night.
5. Sheffield Hotel (Sheffield)
Cost: Free (but please show your support by grabbing a meal or a drink).
Distance from Devonport: The Sheffield Hotel is 26.2km from Devonport which is approximately a 25-35 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Not specified.
Ground: Grass.
Facilities: None (but you can use the hotel’s toilets during open hours).
Requirements: You must check in with Sheffield Hotel staff upon arrival. It is not specified whether you need to be self contained or not.
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Enjoy the quaint charm of the Sheffield Hotel, where free camping meets a vibrant atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Sheffield, the Sheffield Hotel extends a gracious invitation for campers to stay on a grassed area at the rear of the hotel. In addition to the convenience of being just 30 minutes away from Devonport, the town of Sheffield is a worthy tourist attraction by itself. The beautiful small town is known for its captivating street murals.
Immerse yourself in the artistic ambiance of Sheffield while enjoying the delicious meals, refreshing drinks and live music offered by the hotel. This unique camping spot is an ideal base for those who want to stay in this vibrant small town close to Devonport.
Keep in mind that, during the winter months, the Sheffield Hotel usually closes its doors as the grassed camping area transforms into wet and boggy terrain.
Low Cost Camping in Devonport Tasmania
Now that we’ve covered all of the best free camping near Devonport, below we’ve curated a list of the best low-cost camping sites within a 15 minute drive of Devonport. All priced at $10 or less, some of these low-cost camping sites are closer to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal and the town of Devonport than the free camping sites listed. Should you wish to pay a small fee for the added convenience of being closer, these campsites are definitely worth checking out.
6. Girdlestone Park (East Devonport)
Cost: $10 per night (you can pay at the Devonport Visitor Information Centre or via the EasyPark app, if you book using the EasyPark app there is a $1 app fee).
Distance from Devonport: The Girdlestone Park is 5.9km from Devonport which is approximately a 5-10 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Up to 48 hours.
Ground: Grass.
Facilities: Toilets and dump point.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents).
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes (pets are not allowed on the oval however).
Girdlestone Park, situated in East Devonport, stands out as an exceptionally convenient and budget-friendly camping choice for those travelling to or from the Spirit of Tasmania ferry. Located only 1.9km away and a quick 4-minute drive from the ferry terminal, it’s the closest campsite to the terminal, apart from the much pricier Discovery Parks Devonport.
The camping site is on the grassed area surrounding the Girdlestone Park Oval. While the scenery may not be particularly remarkable, especially by Tasmania’s standards, the site’s convenient location is its key appeal. For travellers prioritising proximity to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry terminal, Girdlestone Park may be the perfect base for their journey.
From what we’ve seen in reviews online, the toilets that Girdlestone Park offer are not open 24/7, this is something to consider if you wanted to use them. Unfortunately it seems that the times they’re open is not consistent and varies each day.
7. Horsehead Creek (Quoiba)
Cost: $10 per night (you can pay at the Devonport Visitor Information Centre or via the EasyPark app, if you book using the EasyPark app there is a $1 app fee).
Distance from Devonport: The Horsehead Creek campsite is 4.3km from Devonport which is approximately a 5-10 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Up to 72 hours.
Ground: Grass.
Facilities: Toilets, dump point, picnic tables and bins.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents).
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Discover the tranquility of Horsehead Creek, a hidden gem conveniently situated in Quoiba, just a 5-10 minute drive from Devonport. This low-cost, free camping site unfolds on the grassy expanse adjacent to the Miandetta boat ramp, offering stunning vistas of the Mersey River.
Ideal for water enthusiasts, the site provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing and swimming in the river. While the boat ramp may be quite busy from both locals and tourists during the day, the ample day-use parking area ensures campers enjoy uninterrupted serenity. Horsehead Creek offers a perfect blend of proximity to Devonport and riverside relaxation, making it a great camping spot near Devonport for those seeking a beautiful, yet budget-friendly experience.
The grassed camping area is closed during Tasmania’s winter months (June until September) when it gets boggy and wet. The Devonport Council allow campers to use the sealed section of the park during this time. From what we’ve seen online the toilets are locked every night after sundown, this is also something to consider if you were planning on using them.
8. Devonport Country Club (Spreyton)
Cost: $10 per night.
Distance from Devonport: The Devonport Country Club is 6.7km from Devonport which is approximately a 10-15 minute drive away (depending on traffic and which route you take).
Maximum Length of Stay: Up to 7 nights.
Ground: Grass and gravel.
Facilities: Toilets, bins and water taps. Showers are also available in the clubhouse for $2.
Requirements: Must be self-contained (no tents). Must check in to the clubhouse upon arrival.
Phone Reception: Yes.
Pets Allowed: Yes.
Conveniently located near Devonport, the Devonport Country Club in Spreyton extends a welcoming space for low-cost camping. Tucked away from traffic in a quiet corner of the property, the camping site offers a mix of gravel and grassed areas for parking.
Golf enthusiasts will find this campsite particularly appealing, as the country club has an 18-hole golf course, outdoor lawn bowls and an indoor lawn bowls centre. Indulge in a round or two on the greens, opt for a leisurely game of bowls or spend an evening sharing drinks and chatting with the locals. The camping area, just a short stroll from the clubhouse, allows campers to easily access delicious meals and drinks.
The main entrance gates of the Devonport Country Club are locked by midnight and reopen at 6am. This is something you will need to keep in mind, however the country club does offer early departure upon request at the time of check-in.
Enjoy Free Camping Near Devonport!
As we wrap up our guide on free camping near Devonport, we hope we’ve helped you find the perfect low cost or free campsite for your time in Devonport. Whether you’ve disembarked from or are waiting for the Spirit of Tasmania and want a convenient spot after/before the long journey or you’re a frugal camper eager to uncover the hidden gems of Devonport without the hefty price tag, there’s a free camping site near Devonport for you.
Heading towards Launceston? Check out our guide on free camping near Launceston.
Hey! I’m Lydia and I have been travelling full time with Wehan since 2022. Alongside documenting our travels on YouTube, we put together comprehensive travel guides on the locations we visit here on our website. We also put together guides on other aspects of our travels, such as detailed information on the gear we use, specifics on our van build and tips for van life. Our goal with this website and the guides we write is to help others travel.
At the moment we are currently doing the big lap of Australia in our self converted Sprinter van. Our goal is to continue to push ourselves outside our comfort zone; seeking new adventures, learning about new cultures and seeing as much of the world as possible.
