Camping On Bruny Island: How To Pack & Where To Pitch Your Tent

Thanks to its rich history and unique landscape, Bruny Island is undeniably the perfect destination for campers across Tasmania. With gnarly surf and snorkel opportunities, amazing hiking trails, and fishing destinations, this island is the perfect location for getting back in touch with nature. 

And given that this mesmerising island is just a 20 minute ferry ride from the Tasmanian mainland, Bruny Island also happens to be a highly popular camping destination for virtually all Australians who love to get off the beaten track. The island is home to many different types of terrain, making it a great getaway spot that’s guaranteed to satisfy all types of campers.

But where are the best camping spots to stop at on Bruny? And what should you know before you head out? Here are our top picks of where to pitch your tent as well as some useful tips for your holiday.

Getting the gear
The top priority for camping on Bruny island is keeping warm. Whilst making sure you bring firewood to your campsites is important, you can also make your tent a heat-saving oasis. A portable heater would be a good thing to have for those cold long nights. And if you’re after other comfortable camping amenities like mobile generators or RV accessories, it’s well worth jumping on outdoor retailers like Dometic to  start making a list of the gear you want to source.

The same goes for any outdoor and wet weather wear you want to bring along with you. When it comes to surviving the Antarctic winds that are so typical of Bruny Island’s coastal camping spots, layering is your best friend. Starting with a tight base layer and working your way out will ensure the wind is less likely to chill you. Having a down jacket is the favoured approach for most locals, but any waterproof jacket will do the job. 

For camping, we’d recommend having a thermal liner for your sleeping bag to add extra comfort for sleeping amongst the stars. There are also ways you can insulate your tent, such as lining the inside with your empty sleeping bag cases, to make sure the cold stays out. Always remember to ventilate or otherwise you may wake up in a wet tent and that is not a good way to keep warm. 

Having a park pass
Most campsites on Bruny Island are managed by parks and wildlife services Tasmania. These sites usually require you to have a valid park pass which will give you access to the campsites across the island. With that in mind, you want to secure your park pass well before you embark on your Bruny Island adventure.

That being said, there are still some campsites that don’t ask for much and still allow you to camp with ease. In fact, there are some sites that require nothing but a humble $10 donation for you to pitch your tent. Some locations allow you to book ahead but others are best in, best dressed. Be sure to research what is required at your chosen campsite before you travel.  

Top 4 camping spots on Bruny Island

1. Jetty Beach 
Located near the Bruny Island lighthouse, this tree covered camping site may be small but has all the amenities you need to make your stay an unforgettable one. If you’re keen on hikes, the start of the Labillardiere Peninsula walk can be found nearby. This is one of Tasmania’s 60 great short walks. Also Jetty Beach has calmer waters, making it perfect for small families or those who prefer a leisurely swim. 

2. The Neck
Keen to get up close and personal with penguins? Then head straight for the neck, the go-to destination for close encounters with these adorable birds. The neck provides the perfect viewing spot for when these fairy penguins begin their journey home. This campsite is unpowered but still has lavatories and fire pits available. So bring your firewood, water, and camping gear and you will have a unique experience with the amazing wildlife of Bruny island. 

3. The Cloudy Corner
One of our personal favourites if only for its name alone, the Cloudy Corner is a large camping site that requires a 4WD to access. After a 3km beach drive, you will find the perfect campsite for those who seek thrills. But make sure you get in quick, this popular destination is likely to be full of adventurers. Be it fishing, swimming, or hiking, the cloudy corner is a soft spot to rest your head at the end of your thrilling day. 

4. The Pines on Cloudy Bay Road
On the smaller side of Bruny island campsites, the Pines is ideal for hardcore surfers looking for the best waves off the east coast of Tasmania. Located in South Bruny, the Pines is a free campsite that is popular for those looking for a quieter retreat or those who are seeking out the tubular waves. 

Happy camping
Wherever your travels may lead you, it is certain that Bruny island will be a breathtaking destination. With picturesque views, and unique fauna, this is not a destination you want to skip. Those were our top recommendations for camping on Bruny island but there is so much more to explore on this island beyond just a place to pitch your tent.  There is lots to see and do with something for the whole family, and a trip to remember for a lifetime. No matter where you decide to explore, Bruny island will provide the escape you’ve been dreaming of.