Guide to Lilydale Falls: Easy Twin Cascades, Picnic Spots and Free Camping Near Launceston

Lilydale Falls is one of Northern Tasmania’s easiest and most rewarding short walks. Just a short drive from Launceston, this peaceful reserve combines a fern-filled track, two charming waterfalls and a grassy day-use and camping area that suits road trippers and families. Whether you are pausing for a picnic between Launceston and the northeast coast or settling in for a relaxed overnight stay, Lilydale Falls keeps everything simple. The walk is short, the scenery is lush, and the facilities make it easy to linger.

Why do people go to Lilydale Falls?

Just 25–30 minutes north-east of Launceston, the Lilydale Falls are a handy stop for campervan travellers: a short, family-friendly forest walk to two pretty waterfalls on the Second River, plus a grassy day-use/camp area with toilets, BBQs and a playground. It’s easy to stretch your legs, picnic under tall trees and photograph both the lower and upper falls before rolling on.

Families love the ease of the track and the on-site playground and picnic space. Photographers appreciate the dappled light under the canopy and the soft flow of the falls after rain. It feels secluded, yet it sits close to town and the main road, so it slides neatly into a road trip or a Launceston day out.

How long should I spend at Lilydale Falls?

You can enjoy Lilydale Falls in as little as 45 minutes, which covers a leisurely stroll to both waterfalls, a few photos and a pause to watch the flow. The official track is short and graded for ease, so it suits multi-generational groups and anyone looking to stretch their legs on a longer drive. If you arrive with a picnic or plan to use the BBQ shelters, set aside 1.5 to 2 hours to relax in the reserve before or after the walk.

Camping changes the rhythm entirely. With free sites beside the day-use area, consider arriving by mid afternoon to enjoy golden light on the track, then returning in the morning for a quieter second look. For most, one night is ideal. If you have the time, a slow overnight stay makes a simple visit feel like a nature retreat.

How to get to Lilydale Falls

Lilydale Falls Reserve sits at 228 Golconda Road in Lilydale, about 2 kilometers from the township just north of town, and roughly 25 minutes by car from Launceston. Follow the B81 Golconda Road out of the city toward Lilydale. Look for the signposted access to the reserve, and you will find a gravel parking area directly at the trailhead.

The location is simple to reach in any vehicle, which is one reason it suits quick stops and family outings. If you are driving further northeast toward Bridport or the Bay of Fires, the falls make an easy and scenic stop right on your route.

Best time to visit Lilydale Falls

Lilydale Falls is open year round, and the walk is enjoyable in every season.

Flow is often highest after rainfall and during spring, which usually delivers the most photogenic cascades and a fresh green understory. In drier periods the creek can drop to a gentle trickle, so if you are chasing the best waterfall photos, time your visit for the days following rain.

Time of day: Arriving early in the morning helps you find a quiet track and soft light through the trees. Finding a car park space is also easier early in the morning, particularly during weekends and holidays as the place can be busy given the it’s proximity to Launceston.

Weather in Lilydale Falls

Northern Tasmania has mild summers and cool, damp winters. At Lilydale Falls, the forest canopy keeps the track shaded and often a little cooler than open areas nearby. Showers are possible year round, and the bush can feel humid after rain.

Dress in layers, bring a light waterproof jacket and pack insect repellent in warmer months. Comfortable, grippy footwear is important as rocks and wooden steps can be slippery, especially when wet. Because conditions shift with passing showers, it pays to check the forecast before you set out.

Best place to park your campervan at Lilydale Falls

Lilydale Falls Reserve car park (day use): Signed turn-in from Golconda Road with space for campervans beside the day-use area (toilets, BBQs, playground). The falls track starts from here under the old rail bridge.
Overnight options: The reserve commonly allows short, council-managed overnight stays for self-contained vehicles. Limits such as 24 hours or similar may apply; it’s popular and first-come, first-served. Conditions and capacity change, so check the on-site sign on arrival.

The free campground makes Lilydale Falls especially appealing to road trippers. Managed by the City of Launceston, the site welcomes campervans, caravans and tents for short stays. It is a classic low-fuss campground with what you need to be comfortable. Expect public toilets, sheltered BBQs and rubbish bins. Water taps may be present, but do not rely on them as potable. Bring your own drinking water. There are no showers. Fire pits are provided. Bring your own firewood unless signage indicates supply is available, and always check current fire restrictions and use only the designated fireplaces. A grassed area suits tents, while gravel bays and the main car park area fit vehicles.

FAQs and quick answers

How far is Lilydale Falls from Launceston?
About 26–27 km / ~25–30 minutes’ drive to the reserve near Lilydale township.
How long does the walk take?
Plan 20–30 minutes return to see both waterfalls from formed tracks and steps.
Is Lilydale Falls dog-friendly?
Dogs are not permitted on the walking tracks. Council notes allow on-lead dogs in the campground area only; please observe signage and protect wildlife.
Can I camp at Lilydale Falls?
Yes—there’s a simple, free council campground at the reserve (unpowered; toilets/BBQs/playground). Stay limits apply (commonly one night/short stays); facilities and rules can change. Check on-site signage.
Is the track accessible?
The path is short and generally formed, but steps and natural surfaces mean it’s not fully wheelchair accessible; caution required when wet.