Info on Tasmania

[jock]

with ref. to Hank and O.T’s posts re finding a C.P. in the evening.
No need to worry..the Parks in and around Devonport are fully geared up to expect arrivals off the Ship. Normal arrival for day trips is 6 pm..even if it’s late the Caravan Park staff will be waiting to assist you.
The day trip, for us, apart from being considerably cheaper was very enjoyable..Met quite a few fellow travellers, watched movies, had nice meal in the diner. walked around, played cards, read etc. etc. Fascinating, scenic daylight trip out of Port Phillip Bay and into Devonport and Vice-Versa.
Travelling around Tas. is a different story..particularly at this time of year.. If you want to stay in C.P.s you will have to book ahead.
Jock.

[Argonaut]

We booked daylight crossing both ways and thoroughly enjoyed the trip across (with ocean recliners). We had booked Latrobe Caravan Park and apart from the sites being very small had no trouble settling in during daylight (Daylight saving). After some thought we decided it might be a good experience to go back in a cabin at night so changed our return booking. We really enjoyed the experience except we kept waking each other up to look out the window at passing ships and the lights of Port Phillip Bay. We had to pay a fair bit extra for the cabin because the original booking was Super Saver fare but friends of ours only had to pay an extra $38 because they had a different type of booking and were able to get the autumn discount on the cabin. It’s probably cheaper to decide before you go.
I would definitely recommend doing one of each if you can afford it.

[jessdogster]

Just got back from a few days down South. Had the dogs on board so wherever we went it had to be pet friendly.

Left home and free camped at Oatlands on the Midland Highway. Due to the large numbers of vanners in the state at present, an additional site has been opened up near the mill. The normal area beside Lake Dulverton was full so we went to the nearby large grassy area and heaps of room bordered by convict built stone fences and a stones throw from the Main street – excellent.
We went to Dover the following day and checked into the CP – $27.50 a night with excellent facilities. Noted free camping at Franklin just outside Huonville (opposite hotel and on the river front) and also at the regatta grounds at Port Huon. Had intended to camp at Cockle Creek (the most Southern Street in Australia) but a drive to the area found it very busy – it was apparent that of a weekend, this area became very busy – well worth a drive though and beautiful beach scenery. Added bonus, start of the apple season, picked up a huge back of Royal Gala apples for $2.00 at a roadside stall.
Came home via Orford on the East Coast and stayed at the Louisville (Eastcoaster) CP. $20 a night, location good but area in need of a good clean-up and amenities with no hot water – glad we were self contained!

[delar]

Interesting read on this thread.
We have just booked our trip to Tassie. Leave Melb 28th Jany and return 5th April. Approx 9 weeks, so we think that it is sufficient time for us slow oldies to explore this great state. Heaps of free camps and great climate compared to our Qld summers. During last summer our Qtrly electricity bill was around $700. perhaps due no doubt to overuse of A/cond. So a great saving here for us next year, which has helped to pay for the ferry. No1 son visited Tassie 9 months ago and has given us a camping book with some great spots highlighted. Now compiling heaps of info on Tassie so keep those ideas coming
cheers
Jay&Dee

[Brian]

We went over on the day boat and it was about 8.30 pm by the time we got clear. We had pre booked into the Abel Tasman park, but would go to the park at Latrobe next time. We stayed in Tassie 3 weeks but will make it at least 5 weeks next time. It is caravan paradise.

[jessdogster]

Bump

Not sre if this thread appears when searched for Tasmania given the transition from old to new forum format.

Given the time of year when our Northern neighbours like to visit, I’ll give it a bump for info.

[jessdogster]

Went to the Chocolate Winterfest at Latrobe today – it sure was winter but great for the chocolate lover.

Also drove past the Latrobe Caravan Park at Bells Parade and it looks closed and is fenced off – for your info and update Badger.

Free camp behind supermarket in Main Street is still in use though but looks to be getting a bit boggy.

regards
Jdog

[Bevel19]

There isn’t much of Tassie that isn’t boggy this weekend Jdog.
I live 48 metres above sealevel in Kingston Beach (sth of Hobart) and it’s snowing on and off at the moment!

[jessdogster]

Agreed B19
We’re at sea level and experiencing the same but no snow – thankfully!
cheers
Jdog

[JayDee]

I have just made a trip dowm memory lane by reading this thread. We were in Tassie for 9 weeks Feb-Mar.
Must agree with dogjester, that the weather conditions were very favourable.
Anyone thinking of visiting Tassie during the mainland summer will enjoy the weather.
May I suggest that one take heed of Dogjester, as he has no doubt travelled his island many times. Excellent advice Adrian.
Just thought that I would throw this thread back on to the front page for new folks going to Tassie
JayDee.