Last Updated on 18 September 2026 by Rob
For those seeking a low-cost option, Stanley Recreational Campground is your spot.
In the shadow of The Nut, this wide-open campground allows you to explore Stanley and its iconic geographical feature. You have the option to tackle the walk up The Nut or take the chairlift up.
In addition to exploring Stanley and The Nut, activities include visiting historical sites, watching penguins (when in season), swimming and fishing.
You must be fully self-contained to stay at this campground, which provides both water and a dump point.
Rubbish bins are provided at this site.
Pets are permitted.
Tents and fires are not permitted.
The site is closed from the 27th of November to the 5th of December each year for the local showday.
Stanley Recreational Campground Quick Facts
| Campground Name | Stanley Rec Campground |
| Nearest Town | Stanley |
| GPS | 40°45'51.01"S 145°17'21.54"E |
| Access Road | Sealed |
| Number of sites | approx 50 |
| Toilets | No |
| Water | Yes |
| Dump point | Yes |
| Power | No |
| Pets | Yes |
| Tents | No |
| Fires permitted | No |
| Telstra coverage | Yes |
| Optus coverage | Yes |
| Cost | $15 per night |
| Booking | N/A |
Planning a Launceston to Stanley Road Trip?
This destination is featured in our complete, un-sponsored 5-Day Launceston to Stanley Coastal Itinerary. Discover low-cost, hybrid-friendly camps from Ulverstone to Myalla, practical towing advice along the Bass Highway, and a relaxed day-by-day route past the Big Penguin, Boat Harbour Beach, and The Nut in Stanley.
Explore the 5-Day Launceston to Stanley Itinerary →Campground Layout and Features
There are approximately 50 unmarked sites in this camping area. The area is flat and mostly grassy. It is a large open area that allows camping around the perimeter and in the central area when it gets sufficiently full. You must camp away from the water taps so others can fill their tanks.
As indicated earlier, the following facilities are provided:
- Dump point
- Water
- Rubbish bins
No other facilities are provided.
The $15 per night fee is collected each evening by the caretaker.
Bookings are not available at this campsite.
Stanley Recreational Campsite Location
Stanley is easily accessed from the east or west via the Bass Highway.
The campsite is just 800m from central Stanley. The map below shows its location. You may zoom out for a more general location.
What to Watch Out For at Stanley Recreational Campground
The ground a bumpy so you will need to drive slowly.
The campground is exposed to the wind in windy conditions. In such conditions, it can get dusty.
Final Words
This is a pleasant campsite from which to explore Stanely and the surrounding area. We recommend staying here if you are planning a visit. If you are looking for somewhere with more facilities, there is a Big 4 caravan park close by.
To repeat, the site is closed from the 27th of November to the 5th of December each year for the local showday.
If you wish to stay away from the town, you may like to consider staying at Black River Campsite.
This campground is the endpoint of our Launceston to Stanley itinerary. It is also the starting point of our Tarkine Drive itinerary.
Closeby Campgrounds
For those doing the Tarkine Drive you may like to read about Manuka Campground in Arthur River.
If you are travelling east, you may like Myalla Recreation Ground.
Edited on 26/12/25 due to fee increase from $10 per night to $15 (checked 18/9/26).
