As a general rule, dogs and other pets and not allowed into Tasmania's national parks and nature reserves. This is for a number of reasons, but it is primarily to protect our native wildlife. These areas provide refuge for many species that are rare, endangered or confined to Tasmania.
Despite the nature of your pet, their presence can be disruptive to our wildlife for a number of reasons:
- Our wildlife is vulnerable to the predation, disturbance and disease that dogs may cause.
- Barking or scents are enough to scare away native wildlife, spread disease and attract other dogs which may invade from surrounding locales.
- Escaped pets can become feral and pose a major threat to many native species.
Assistance dogs
Trained assistance dogs for vision and hearing impaired people are permitted in national parks, but it is advised that you bring appropriate identification with you. For other assistance dogs, such as companion dogs and guide dogs in training, please contact the local Parks and Wildlife staff before you head out.
Where can you visit with dogs?
There are a number of conservation areas, regional reserves and nature recreation areas around the state where dogs are welcome. Some council-managed reserves, allow dogs in some areas. Signage at the different locations will let you know if the area is on or off leash, as well as any seasonal restrictions to dog access. Please remove and appropriately dispose of your dog's faeces.
Below is a list of some reserves and camping sites where dogs are welcome:
Bay of Fires Conservation Area
Dogs are permitted on-lead and on designated walking tracks only. Full details can be found via the Break O'Day Council.
Coal Mines Historic Site
Dogs are permitted on-lead.
Coles Bay Conservation Area
The area is a mix of on and off-lead areas, as well as prohibited zones. Full details can be found via the
Glamorgan Spring Bay Council.
Coningham Nature Recreation Area
The area is a mix of on and off-lead areas. The area is also used by horse riders, it is expected that dog walkers move aside for horse-riders to pass to avoid disturbing the horse.
Eaglehawk Neck Historic Site
The area is a mix of on and off-lead areas.
Evercreech
Dogs are permitted on-lead.
Goblin Forest Walk
Dogs are permitted on-lead.
Hastings Forest Drive Picnic Area
Dogs are welcome and permitted off-lead, provided they stay close to their owners and are under effective control at all times.
Hogarth Falls
Dogs are permitted on-lead and on designated walking tracks only.
Hollybank
Dogs are permitted on-lead.
Kate Reed Nature Recreation Area
Dogs are welcome, but do need to be on-lead at all times to ensure the safety of other track users.
loontitetermairrelehoiner
Dogs are permitted on-lead, but from 15th September to 15th of April, dogs are not permitted on the track between dusk and dawn due to nesting shorebirds.
Montezuma Falls
Dogs are permitted on-lead, but it is unsafe for pets to drink from or swim in the creeks due to heavy metals from historic mining.
Peter Murrell Reserves