Important information for campers
Pumphouse Bay and Jonah Bay campgrounds are currently closed and will reopen when the fishing season recommences.

  • Upon reopening, the campgrounds will operate as public camping areas on a first-come, first-served basis.

  • Semi-permanent camps and long-term setups are not endorsed.  

  • Previous seasonal bookings and individual site allocations will no longer be available. 

  • There will be no camping fees.

Pumphouse Bay campground
Project overview
What's changing and why?

Hydro Tasmania is updating the way Pumphouse Bay and Jonah Bay campgrounds at Arthurs Lake are managed. 

Pumphouse Bay and Jonah Bay campgrounds will now be available seasonally in line with the fishing season. The campgrounds will close in May each year and reopen in August at the start of the next fishing season.

This year, all visitors were required to vacate the sites by 3 May 2026. 

Hydro Tasmania plans to reopen the campgrounds before the start of the 2026–27 fishing season around August.

When the campgrounds reopen:

  • sites will no longer be available through individual or seasonal bookings  

  • camping will be first in, first served  

  • suggested occupancy limits will apply to support fair and equitable access  

  • long-term or semi-permanent camps will not be endorsed 

  • site-specific conditions will be introduced to support safe and appropriate use 

  • There will be no site fees. 

Why the changes are being made

Hydro Tasmania manages a range of recreational sites across Tasmania. These changes will help ensure Pumphouse Bay and Jonah Bay are managed in a way that is fair, consistent and accessible to a wider range of visitors. 

Jonah Bay campground
Previous seasonal users
We recognise that a small number of visitors have had a long history of seasonal use at these sites and have taken pride in maintaining their camp areas.

Importantly, these sites will continue to be available for camping. However, access will no longer be through seasonal or lease-style arrangements and will instead operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

These changes are being made to ensure the campgrounds can be accessed more fairly and consistently by the broader community, in line with the management of other Hydro Tasmania recreational sites across the state.

We know that some visitors have enjoyed these sites for many years and have taken great care of their camps and surrounding areas. We also acknowledge that these changes may be disappointing for those who have previously held seasonal arrangements. The respectful way these sites have been used and cared for over the years is greatly valued, and we thank those users for their contribution. We also look forward to the continued support of all campers in helping to care for these areas into the future

Other Hydro Tasmania recreational sites
Hydro Tasmania manages a range of recreational sites across the state, including campgrounds, day-use areas, and boat ramps.

Information on other Hydro Tasmania sites, including locations and facilities, can be found on our Things to do page.

Have your say

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We understand these changes may raise questions, and we want the local community and regular users to understand what’s changing and why. Ask us a question here