The coastline of the
Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area
The Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area stretches along the wild and beautiful north-west coast of Tasmania and covers over 100 000 hectares. Much of the reserve is between the Arthur River in the north, the Pieman River in the south and the Frankland and Donaldson Rivers to the east. It is a dynamic landscape which is being continually reshaped by wind, fire and water.
The area has a rich Aboriginal heritage which has left markers in the landscape, such as middens, hut depressions, artefact scatters and rock art. These special places and their associated cultural landscapes show that Aboriginal people in the past had a special relationship with the land - a relationship which continues with Aboriginal people today.
The Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area provides a range of opportunities for recreation, from surfing and diving to recreational off-road driving and fishing.
Campgrounds and other Accommodation
At Arthur River there are three campgrounds with water and toilet facilities. Wood is not supplied to campsites but can be collected from the beaches. Many other free range camping areas are within the Reserve (see map).
There are no powered sites available within the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area, although there is a caravan park, Arthur River Cabin Park, with tent sites, powered caravan sites and cabins located 2km north of Arthur River. Facilities include toilets and hot showers.
Fees apply to camping anywhere within the Arthur - Pieman Conservation Area, not just the campgrounds. See Camping and Cabin Fees for costs and further details.
The registration envelope should be used for camping permits. Fill in the details on the envelope and remove the tear-off stub, as this is proof that you have a permit. Please display it in a prominent place. All information provided on the registration envelope is entered into a computer database as back up proof of permits and fees paid.
Please leave camping areas as you would want to find them. You can help do this by:
- camping at established sites rather than creating new sites.
- washing at least 50m away from water sources, especially when using soaps or detergents.
- using toilets where provided. (Otherwise go to the toilet at least 100m from campsites and watercourses. The waste should be buried in a hole at least 15cm deep.)
- respecting the rights of others.
- taking your rubbish out with you.
- fires may only be lit in the fireplaces provided throughout the APCA No fires are to be lit on the ground under any circumstances. Wood may only be collected from the beaches (please note that is against the law to be in possession of a chainsaw in a Conservation Area). Fallen wood should not be taken.
There are several accommodation options available at Arthur River. Contact the Stanley Visitor Centre (which services the area) on 1300 138 229
Fuel and Groceries
There are two small stores at Arthur River. They supply basic grocery lines, ice, some hot food, fishing gear and baits. No fuel is available at Arthur River. Redpa General store or Marrawah General Store are the nearest fuel outlets.
Off-road driving
All vehicles must be registered and drivers must have a current driver's licence. In addition to drivers/riders being licenced and vehicles being registered, all drivers/riders are required to obtain an "Off-Road Authority" from the Ranger at Arthur River. Contact the Ranger for details and advice. Take a look at 'Cruisin Without Bruisin' from the Parks and Wildlife Service for important information about off-road driving in this area. It is also wise to contact a ranger at Arthur River for advice on track conditions.
Fishing and Diving
Estuary fishing, surf fishing and diving can be undertaken. Normal regulations apply (a licence is not needed when fishing for salmon in the Arthur River west of the bridge). Netting in the Arthur River is prohibited.
Surfing
Board surfing, body surfing and wind surfing can be undertaken. Beware that conditions on this stretch of coast can often be dangerous. There are no life guards and beaches are remote.
Bushwalking
Coastal walks (no constructed tracks). Check the weather before setting out as conditions can deteriorate rapidly.
Horseriding
Riders are permitted to ride on the designated off-road tracks and beaches within the Arthur-Pieman Conservation Area. Contact the Ranger for details and advice. Holding yards for horses are available at Marrawah, Arthur River and Rebecca Creek.
Canoeing
Canoe hire is available at Arthur River.
River Cruise
There are two ferry operators offering cruises on the Arthur River. Contact the Stanley Visitor Centre on 1300 138 229 for bookings and further information.