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Camping on Bruny Island: Here's what you need to know

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves nearby, with sandy beaches on one side and eucalyptus trees on the other. Camping on Bruny Island offers a mix of coastal calm and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re setting up a tent or parking your camper van by a bay, Bruny has campgrounds for all types of campers. To plan the perfect camping trip, here’s everything you need to know about the best spots, available facilities, how to book, and the rules to keep the island clean.

Best Bruny Island camping sites

Here are some of the island’s most popular and scenic campgrounds, each with its own vibe and perks:

Adventure Bay Foreshore Campground

  • Located on a sheltered, east-facing bay with safe swimming beaches, along with fishing and kayaking activities.
  • Facilities include pit toilets, cold-water outdoor showers, and picnic tables.
  • Close to walking trails and the Bruny Island Berry Farm for a tasty day trip.

Cloudy Bay Campground

  • Set among forested dunes overlooking the ocean.
  • Offers pit toilets, cold-water taps, and fire pits for campfires. Please note that pre-cut firewood is recommended since the camp is within the Reserve Land.
  • Nearby attractions include Cloudy Bay lookout and penguin spotting at dusk.

Jetty Beach Campground

  • Situated on a sheltered bay in South Bruny.
  • Amenities include toilets, rainwater tanks, and a boat ramp.
  • Perfect for fishing charters, kayaking, snorkelling, and short bushwalks.

Neck Beach Camping Area

  • Peaceful beachfront campsite between dunes and native bush.
  • Basic facilities include toilets, picnic tables, and beach access.
  • Perfect for sunrise walks, penguin spotting at The Neck, and stargazing at night.

Facilities and amenities

Knowing what to expect helps you pack smart and plan better:

  • Water: Most campgrounds have potable water taps, but it’s wise to fill jerry cans before nightfall.
  • Toilets: Facilities vary from flush toilets to pit toilets.
  • Showers: Only Adventure Bay offers cold outdoor showers. Other sites rely on taps, non-treated tank water or nearby amenities.
  • Fire pits & Barbecues: Some campgrounds have built-in fire rings; it’s best to bring a portable stove as a backup, especially during fire bans. It’s also recommended to carry and pre-cut firewood since the trees fall under the Reserve Land. Never cut the native trees.
  • Shelters & tables: Picnic shelters mean you can dine comfortably even if the weather turns.

What is it like camping during different seasons of the year?

Guests hiking on a trail with Meteora rock formations in the background during a Meteora Hiking Tour with Monastery Visit.
  • Best weather for camping – warm days and mild nights
  • Ideal for beach activities, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting
  • Longer daylight hours
  • Can be busy during peak holiday season
Visitors exploring the Blue Planet Aquarium's vibrant marine life exhibits.
  • Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds
  • Great for hiking and photography with autumn colours
  • Easier to find quiet camping spots
  • Some wildlife like penguins and seals still visible
Elderly man using binoculars for bird watching in a lush green park.
  • Wildflowers in bloom and lush green landscapes
  • Active wildlife and birdwatching opportunities
  • Mild weather, though can still be a bit chilly at night
  • Lower tourist traffic before the summer rush
Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
  • Cold and less ideal for camping unless you’re well-prepared
  • Quiet and peaceful – perfect for solitude
  • Good for whale watching off the coast
  • Limited services and facilities may be closed or reduced

Getting to Bruny Island Camping Sites

  1. Reach Kettering (Mainland Tasmania)
  • Drive or take a bus from Hobart (approx. 35–40 minutes drive) to the town of Kettering.
  • This is where the Bruny Island Ferry departs.
  1. Take the Bruny Island Ferry
  • Catch the SeaLink Bruny Island Ferry from Kettering to Roberts Point (North Bruny).
  • Ferry runs multiple times a day and takes about 20 minutes.
  • You can take your car or campervan onboard – highly recommended for exploring the island and reaching campsites.
  1. Drive to Your Camping Site

Once you’re on Bruny Island, drive to your chosen camping spot. Here are some popular options:

Camping rules and regulations

To keep Bruny’s environment healthy and enjoyable for all, campers must follow these:

  • Camp only within designated sites—no bush camping allowed.
  • Observe fire restrictions carefully; open fires are banned during total fire ban days.
  • Use only your own firewood or buy locally—never cut native trees.
  • Pack out everything—leave no trace of rubbish, food scraps, or cigarette butts.
  • Pets are prohibited in most campgrounds—check specific rules; Adventure Bay may allow dogs on leash in designated areas.
  • Quiet hours are 10pm to 7am to respect wildlife and fellow campers.

Explore more of Bruny Island

After setting up your tent or parking your camper, why not extend your Bruny Island experience?

  • Join Bruny Island Wilderness Cruiseto spot seals and dolphins, or a food tour sampling local cheeses and oysters.
  •  For geology or history buffs, guided day trips reveal the island’s unique stories and landscapes. 
  • Dive deep into everything Bruny offers and create memories beyond the campsite.

Frequently asked questions about Camping in Bruny Island

Yes, but only when there’s no total fire ban. Always use designated fire pits, bring your own firewood since cutting native trees are prohibited, and fully extinguish fires before sleeping.