Camping at Pyengana Recreation Ground – Tasmania

Affordable Country Camping in Tasmania’s Beautiful North East

If you’re exploring Tasmania’s north-east and looking for a relaxed, inexpensive place to camp, Pyengana Recreation Ground is an excellent little country stopover. Located in the picturesque Pyengana Valley, around 30 minutes from St Helens, the recreation ground provides plenty of open space for caravans, motorhomes, campervans and tents. The campground is particularly convenient for travellers visiting St Columba Falls, Halls Falls, the Blue Tier and the Bay of Fires, while two of Pyengana’s best-known attractions — the Pub in the Paddock and Pyengana Dairy Company — are also nearby.

Pyengana Recreation Ground at a Glance

How Much Does It Cost to Camp at Pyengana Recreation Ground?

Pyengana Recreation Ground has traditionally operated as a very inexpensive community camping area, rather than a conventional commercial campground. To camp a donation is payable at the gate, at a rate of app.$5 per person per night. Because the recreation ground is community-oriented and arrangements can change, it is best to check the signage and current fee when you arrive. Even if a small camping fee or donation applies, Pyengana remains an exceptionally affordable base for exploring this part of Tasmania.

Toilets and Hot Showers

One of the big advantages of camping at Pyengana is that you don’t necessarily need to be completely self-contained. The recreation ground has toilet and shower facilities, and hot showers have been advertised at approximately $2 for three minutes. You’ll want to carry some $2 coins with you, as change may not be available. Facilities are relatively basic, so don’t arrive expecting the amenities of a holiday park. For travellers who simply want somewhere peaceful to park the caravan or pitch a tent, however, they are a welcome bonus.

Are Dogs Allowed at Pyengana Recreation Ground?

Yes. Pets are reported as being permitted at Pyengana Recreation Ground, making it a useful option for travellers exploring Tasmania with a dog. As with any shared recreation ground, dogs should be kept under effective control, particularly around other campers, children and local wildlife. Keeping your dog on a lead around the camping and recreation areas is the safest approach. Remember that dog rules at nearby reserves and national parks can be different, so don’t assume that because your dog can stay with you at Pyengana it can accompany you to every nearby walking tracks or natural attraction.

What Is the Camping Area Like?

This isn’t a manicured caravan park with numbered sites. Camping is on the open grassy area around the recreation ground, giving it the relaxed atmosphere typical of Tasmania’s small community campgrounds.

There’s room for different types of camping setups, including:

• Tents
• Camper trailers
• Campervans
• Caravans
• Motorhomes
• Larger RVs

The relatively open layout also makes it easier for caravans and larger motorhomes to manoeuvre than at many small bush campsites.

Things to Do Around Pyengana

Pyengana is a tiny rural community, but there is a surprising amount to see within a short drive.

St Columba Falls

One of Tasmania’s highest and most impressive waterfalls, St Columba Falls is only a short drive further along St Columba Falls Road. A well-formed rainforest walking track leads down to a viewing platform overlooking the falls.

Halls Falls

Another worthwhile waterfall is Halls Falls, which is only a few kilometres from Pyengana. The walk passes through beautiful forest to the Groom River and the falls.

Pyengana Dairy Company

Pyengana has been associated with dairy farming for generations. The Pyengana Dairy Company is famous for its traditional cheddar cheese and makes an excellent stop for cheese lovers travelling through the valley.

Pub in the Paddock

The historic Pub in the Paddock is one of the best-known attractions in Pyengana. Its rural location and old-fashioned country atmosphere have made it a popular stop for travellers exploring north-east Tasmania.

Blue Tier

Bushwalkers and mountain bikers can also use Pyengana as a base for exploring the Blue Tier, an historic mining area that is now renowned for its forests, walking tracks and mountain-bike trails.

Getting to Pyengana Recreation Ground

Pyengana is located inland from Tasmania’s north-east coast. From St Helens, follow the Tasman Highway towards Weldborough and Scottsdale before turning onto St Columba Falls Road towards Pyengana. The trip generally takes around 25–30 minutes. The recreation ground is at approximately 250 St Columba Falls Road, Pyengana TAS 7216. The drive itself is part of the attraction, taking you through the lush green farmland of the Pyengana Valley.

Is Pyengana Recreation Ground Worth Staying At?

Definitely, particularly if you prefer inexpensive community camping rather than busy commercial caravan parks. The combination of low-cost camping, toilets, hot showers, pet-friendly conditions and a beautiful rural location makes Pyengana Recreation Ground a particularly useful stop for caravanners and motorhome travellers touring north-east Tasmania. It also makes a great base for spending a couple of days exploring St Columba Falls, Halls Falls, the Blue Tier and Pyengana Valley, before continuing towards Derby, Scottsdale, St Helens or the Bay of Fires. For travellers who enjoy simple country camping and don’t need powered sites or resort-style facilities, Pyengana is one of those small Tasmanian camping spots that is well worth knowing about.

Note: Camping fees, stay limits and facilities at community recreation grounds can change. Check signs at the recreation ground on arrival for the latest conditions and charges.