Southwest National Park wilderness guide
National Park · TAS

Southwest National Park

Southwest National Park is the largest national park in Tasmania, offering rugged wilderness and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation.

National Park1,217,8743+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,217,874

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Southwest National Park

Southwest National Park is the largest national park in Tasmania, offering rugged wilderness and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Southwest National Park, located in the remote southwestern corner of Tasmania, encompasses dramatic landscapes that range from towering mountain ranges to vast button grass plains. The park is a crucial component of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, recognized for its outstanding universal value. It is home to a diverse array of ecosystems, supporting rare and endangered species such as the orange-bellied parrot and the eastern quoll. Visitors are drawn to its rugged wilderness, which offers a wealth of recreation opportunities including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Notable landmarks include Federation Peak, a challenging climb known for its sheer rock face and breathtaking vistas, and the serene Lake Pedder. The park's history is rich, with evidence of Aboriginal habitation dating back millennia, and its remote nature has kept it largely unchanged, providing a glimpse into the pristine past of Tasmania. Outdoor enthusiasts relish the chance to explore the Overland Track, one of Australia's most famous hikes, as well as other remote trails that offer solitude and the chance to connect with nature.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Southwest National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Federation Peak - a world-renowned challenge for experienced climbers.✦ The endangered orange-bellied parrot, one of the world's rarest birds.✦ Gordon River Road, offering fabulous vistas of the park's rugged interior.✦ The remote and captivating Lake Pedder, known for its striking beauty.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Southwest National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Southwest National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Southwest National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Southwest National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Southwest National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Southwest National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees are required for entry; however, park passes are advisable for extended stays.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Southwest National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Teds Beach Campground

Located on the shores of Lake Pedder, offering easy access to water activities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Southwest National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Strathgordon, Tasmania
⌖ 14.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Strathgordon, Tasmania

Strathgordon is a remote base for exploring Tasmania’s wild Southwest, with hiking, paddling, and wildlife spotting amid vast wilderness parks. It’s perfect for visitors seeking solitude, stunning landscapes, and authentic backcountry adventure.

Summer to early Autumn
Explore Town
Maydena, Tasmania
⌖ 15.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maydena, Tasmania

Maydena is Tasmania’s premier mountain biking hub surrounded by wilderness parks. With epic trails, waterfall hikes, and fishing spots, it’s perfect for adventurers seeking authentic outdoor challenges.

Autumn through Spring
Explore Town
Glenora, Tasmania
⌖ 29.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glenora, Tasmania

Glenora is a quiet rural town in Tasmania’s Derwent Valley, ideal for outdoor lovers seeking gentle hikes, paddling on the Derwent River, cycling scenic country roads, and wildlife watching in a peaceful setting.

Spring to Autumn
Explore Town
New Norfolk, Tasmania
⌖ 38.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Norfolk, Tasmania

New Norfolk is a riverside town in Tasmania known for paddling the Derwent River, hiking forest trails, and spotting native wildlife. Its proximity to Mount Field National Park makes it a great base for outdoor adventures in a historic setting.

Spring to Autumn
Explore Town
Derwent Bridge, Tasmania
⌖ 40.30 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Derwent Bridge, Tasmania

Derwent Bridge is a quiet mountain town that serves as the perfect gateway to Tasmania’s alpine wilderness. It offers hikers, skiers, and wildlife lovers access to iconic trails, secluded camping spots, and breathtaking landscapes all year round.

Summer to early Autumn (December to April)
Explore Town
Lake St Clair Village, Tasmania
⌖ 41.97 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake St Clair Village, Tasmania

Lake St Clair Village is a serene base for exploring Tasmania’s wilderness with hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching. It’s the southern trailhead of the famous Overland Track and offers stunning alpine lake views.

Summer to early Autumn (December to April)
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Southwest National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.