Douglas Apsley National Park

Douglas Apsley National Park is a hidden gem on Tasmania's east coast, offering a serene escape into ancient dry sclerophyll forests and tranquil waterways. Unlike the coastal crowds of Freycinet, this park rewards those who seek solitude with pristine swimming holes, towering eucalypts, and a raw sense of wilderness. It's a place where you can hear the rustle of wildlife and the gentle flow of the Apsley River, perfect for a half-day adventure or a picnic in nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Waterhole Loop Walk – A short, family-friendly trail leading to a series of crystal-clear rock pools and cascades, ideal for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
• Apsley River – The park's lifeblood, with smooth granite boulders and deep pools that invite swimming and sunbathing in a peaceful setting.
• Dry Sclerophyll Forest – Walk among ancient stringybark and peppermint gums, with a diverse understorey of banksias and heath that attract birdlife like honeyeaters and pardalotes.
• Wildflowers in Spring – From September to November, the park bursts into colour with native orchids, wattles, and flowering shrubs.
• Picnic by the River – Several informal spots along the river offer shaded tables and fireplaces, perfect for a quiet lunch surrounded by bush.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the Waterhole Loop and relaxing by the river. If you're keen on a longer walk, allow half a day to venture further along the Apsley River track. The park is best visited in the morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the trees and the water shimmers. It's an easy add-on to a day trip from Freycinet or Bicheno.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wineglass Bay – Iconic crescent beach and granite peaks in Freycinet National Park, a must-see for coastal scenery and hiking.
• Bicheno – Charming fishing town with blowholes, penguin tours, and great seafood, just a short drive north.
• Freycinet National Park – Broader park with diverse trails, from the Wineglass Bay lookout to the Hazards Beach circuit.
• Coles Bay – Gateway to Freycinet, offering accommodation, kayaking, and stunning views of the Hazards mountain range.
• St Helens – A larger coastal town with beautiful beaches, the Bay of Fires, and excellent fishing opportunities, about an hour north.

Please check official sources for current details.