Southern Tasmania is a haven for nature lovers, offering a wide range of national parks and reserves that showcase the region's unique landscapes and diverse wildlife. Some of the notable parks in Southern Tasmania include: Hartz Mountains National Park, featuring alpine landscapes, glacier-carved lakes, and ancient rainforests providing a stunning backdrop for various outdoor activities. Southwest National Park, Tasmania's largest reserve, boasts dramatic mountain ranges, spectacular coastal landscapes, and rocky coastlines, offering numerous opportunities for extended bushwalks, kayaking, and scenic flights. Freycinet National Park, located along Tasmania's rugged east coast, is known for its white-sand beaches, rocky coves, and the picturesque Wineglass Bay. Maria Island National Park offers a mix of solitary beaches, bush walks, and mountainous backdrops, providing a serene environment for nature lovers. Tasman National Park, located on the Tasman Peninsula, features stunning cliffs, rock formations, and the opportunity to spot penguins, whales, dolphins, and endangered Wedge-tailed Eagles.
In addition to these national parks, Southern Tasmania offers various walking trails, such as the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania, which are all a day or shorter in length and can be found within Tasmania's national parks. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, visitors should familiarize themselves with the Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service's safety guidelines and check for any track, campsite, and reserve closures or reopenings before embarking on their adventures.