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Looking for the best campsites in South Island (NZ)? You’re in for a treat. South Island is a camper’s dream, filled with lakeside retreats, coastal gems, and mountain hideaways. Whether you’re in a campervan or pitching a tent under the stars, you’ll find something for every taste and budget.
We've scouted the island to bring you 10 must-visit campsites, complete with essential info, amenities, and pet policies so you can plan your perfect adventure.
Discovering New Zealand’s South Island by Campervan
New Zealand’s South Island is a land of dramatic contrasts and untamed beauty. From its glacial lakes and snow-dusted peaks to its sun-kissed bays and lush rainforests, it’s a dreamscape designed for exploration. Whether you're winding your way through alpine passes, hugging rugged coastlines, or pausing by serene lakes, there's always a fresh adventure around the bend.
Driving across the island in a campervan is not just the most flexible way to travel — it’s the most immersive. You'll wake up to mountain silhouettes and fall asleep under vast, starry skies. With a mix of DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites, holiday parks, and freedom camping spots available, the South Island offers something for everyone, no matter your budget or travel style.
Ready to plan your route? Below you’ll find a curated list of the best campsites across the South Island — complete with tips, highlights, and everything you need to know.
Best Campsites in South Island Map
To make your trip even easier, here’s an interactive map with all the top campsites in NZ South Island. You can use Google My Maps to plot your route and compare your options.
1. Moke Lake Campsite – Queenstown Region
- Location: Moke Lake Loop Rd, Queenstown 9371
- Phone: +64 3 442 7935
- Booking: DOC Website
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Toilets | Non-powered sites | Not allowed |
| Water (boil first) | Walking trails, kayaking | |
| No showers | Stargazing |
Moke Lake is more than just a picturesque spot to park up; it’s a natural amphitheatre surrounded by rugged peaks, making it a tranquil yet dramatic setting. Historically, the area was used for sheep farming, and remnants of old stockyards can still be seen along the walking trails. The lake itself mirrors the sky so perfectly that photographers flock here during golden hour.
It’s a beloved local gem that remains relatively uncrowded — even in peak season. Driving New Zealand in a campervan often leads travellers here as a peaceful contrast to Queenstown's adrenaline-fuelled vibe just 20 minutes away. The Moke Lake Loop Track offers a moderate 2-3 hour hike with stunning alpine views, perfect for stretching your legs after a day on the road.
2. Purakaunui Bay Campsite – The Catlins
- Location: Purakaunui Bay Rd, Owaka 9586
- Phone: +64 3 419 0200
- Booking: No booking required
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets | Beach access | Not allowed |
| Basic water | Wildlife viewing | |
| No power | Surfing |
Located in the wild and often overlooked Catlins region, Purakaunui Bay is the definition of raw coastal beauty. Towering limestone cliffs encircle a sandy cove, making it one of the most scenic beach campsites on the South Island. The bay’s name comes from the nearby Purakaunui Falls, one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls.
It’s also a historic area for Māori, who fished and foraged along these coasts for generations. Surfers adore the rolling waves, while bird watchers might spot rare yellow-eyed penguins emerging from the bush at dusk. For many, this site is discovered while driving New Zealand in a campervan, guided only by word of mouth or adventurous spirit. It feels like camping on the edge of the world — a place where the ocean sings you to sleep.
3. Lake Pukaki Reserve – Mackenzie Region
- Location: State Highway 8, Pukaki
- Phone: Mackenzie District Council +64 3 685 9010
- Booking: Not required (self-contained only)
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets (limited) | Scenic views | Allowed (leashed) |
| No water | Freedom camping | |
| No power | Overnight stays |
Lake Pukaki is famous for its electric blue waters — coloured by glacial flour from the Southern Alps — and for offering one of the most incredible vantage points of Aoraki/Mount Cook. This location was also used as a filming site for Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit, adding a layer of pop-culture appeal. There's no shortage of awe here; watching the sun rise over New Zealand’s tallest peak from the comfort of your campervan is unforgettable.
Historically, the lake played a significant role in hydroelectric development, and the control gates still regulate the water feeding into the Waitaki system. Travellers driving through New Zealand in a campervan often stop here for a free night of luxury under the stars — it’s freedom camping at its finest, with views you simply can’t buy.
4. Punakaiki Beach Camp – West Coast
- Location: Owen Street, Punakaiki 7873
- Phone: +64 3 731 1894
- Booking: punakaikibeachcamp.co.nz
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Showers | Kitchen, BBQs | Not allowed |
| Powered sites | Laundry, Wi-Fi | |
| Toilets | 5-min walk to Pancake Rocks |
Punakaiki Beach Camp is nestled in the heart of the wild West Coast and just a stone’s throw from the world-famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. These layered limestone formations, shaped over 30 million years, are one of New Zealand's most iconic geological wonders. The area was once part of a coastal Māori route known for its abundance of seafood and pounamu (greenstone).
Today, the camp is a family-friendly haven with direct access to the beach and nearby river. You’ll often hear native birdsong and the rhythmic crash of Tasman Sea waves as you drift off. If you're driving New Zealand in a campervan, this is an ideal stop to recharge — both your vehicle and your soul — while enjoying a dramatic slice of coastal magic.
5. Totaranui Campground – Abel Tasman
- Location: Totaranui Rd, Abel Tasman National Park
- Phone: +64 3 528 1810
- Booking: DOC Booking
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets | Cold showers | Not allowed |
| Potable water | Beach access | |
| BBQ areas | Kayaking, hiking |
Totaranui is the jewel of Abel Tasman National Park — famous for golden beaches, lush native forest, and the start of one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. This DOC campground is large yet surprisingly serene, offering direct beach access and boat launch areas. Historically, the area was a Māori settlement and later a European farming community, traces of which can still be spotted in the surrounding bush.
Kayaking along the coast offers glimpses of seals, dolphins, and hidden coves. For many travelling by campervan, Totaranui is a highlight on their South Island itinerary. It's remote, breathtaking, and perfect for multi-day hiking adventures or simply soaking in the coastal beauty.
6. White Horse Hill Campground – Aoraki/Mt Cook
- Location: Hooker Valley Rd, Mt Cook National Park
- Phone: +64 3 435 1186
- Booking: DOC Website
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets | Short walks, Hooker Valley | Not allowed |
| Water (boil first) | Stargazing, alpine views | |
| Shelter building |
White Horse Hill offers a front-row seat to the mighty Aoraki/Mount Cook, the tallest peak in New Zealand. It's a bucket-list destination for hikers and alpine enthusiasts, with the famous Hooker Valley Track beginning just steps away. The area is rich in both geological and cultural history — revered in Māori tradition as the sacred mountain Aoraki. Sir Edmund Hillary also trained here before his Everest expedition. The dark sky reserve status ensures spectacular stargazing opportunities, making it a dream for astro-photographers. Those driving across New Zealand by campervan find this spot to be a surreal mix of remoteness and grandeur, often staying longer than planned, mesmerised by the sheer scale and serenity.
7. Kerr Bay Campground – Nelson Lakes
- Location: Kerr Bay Rd, Lake Rotoiti
- Phone: +64 3 521 1806
- Booking: DOC Website
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets | Boating, fishing | Not allowed |
| Showers (coin) | Family-friendly | |
| Potable water |
Set on the edge of Lake Rotoiti in the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park, Kerr Bay Campground is a peaceful base for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The lake’s name means “small waters” in te reo Māori, and it’s surrounded by forested peaks that reflect beautifully in the still water. The nearby jetty is a hotspot for photographers, and fishing for brown trout is popular with locals. This was also once a vital pounamu (greenstone) trail for early Māori, and you can feel the spiritual significance in the stillness of the place. If you're navigating South Island by campervan, this campground offers both serenity and adventure, with easy access to tramps and mountain biking trails for all skill levels.
8. Glendhu Bay Motor Camp – Wanaka
- Location: 1127 Mt Aspiring Rd, Wanaka 9382
- Phone: +64 3 443 7243
- Booking: glendhubaymotorcamp.co.nz
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Showers | Café, water sports | Allowed (on leash) |
| Laundry | Family area, boat ramp | |
| Powered sites |
Glendhu Bay Motor Camp is a beloved lakeside retreat just 10 minutes from Wanaka. With panoramic views across Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring in the distance, it offers a rare mix of tranquility and convenience. Historically, the bay was a popular Māori fishing spot and later a key rest point for early European settlers heading into the mountains. Today, it’s a haven for families and watersport enthusiasts. Rent a kayak, fire up the BBQ, or just laze by the lake under ancient willows. Campervan travellers appreciate the well-equipped facilities and spacious grounds — it’s often a highlight for those looping through Otago on their New Zealand driving adventure.
9. Pelorus Bridge Campground – Marlborough
- Location: SH6, Rai Valley 7194
- Phone: +64 3 571 6019
- Booking: DOC Website
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets | Riverside picnic area | Not allowed |
| Water (boil) | Short walks | |
| BBQs | Café nearby |
Nestled beside the crystal-clear Pelorus River, this campground is perfect for those who love swimming in freshwater pools and exploring native forest. The Pelorus Bridge is famously featured in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, where the dwarves escaped in barrels. It’s also rich in Māori heritage, with the Pelorus area serving as a seasonal food-gathering site. The nearby suspension bridge and walking trails offer easy access to giant podocarp trees and local birdlife. Many campervan journeys through Marlborough take a quiet turn here, allowing travellers to relax under towering beech trees and soak up the natural serenity of one of South Island’s hidden gems.
10. Momorangi Bay Campground – Marlborough Sounds
- Location: Queen Charlotte Drive, Marlborough Sounds
- Phone: +64 3 520 3002
- Booking: DOC Booking
| Amenities | Services | Pet Policy |
| Toilets | Boat ramp, jetty | Not allowed |
| Showers | Family-friendly | |
| Kitchen | Glow-worm viewing trail |
Momorangi Bay sits along the scenic Queen Charlotte Drive, nestled between lush bush and a calm, swimmable bay. It's ideal for snorkelling, fishing, and watching the sunset over the Marlborough Sounds. The area was historically used for transporting goods between Picton and Havelock and still echoes with stories of old trading routes and whaling stations. One of the unique features here is a glow-worm trail that comes alive at night — a magical experience for kids and adults alike. Campervan travellers often find Momorangi a peaceful end or beginning to their South Island route, especially when heading toward or from the ferry port in Picton.
Camping Tips for South Island Adventures
Camping across the South Island is an incredible way to experience New Zealand’s natural beauty, but it’s important to be prepared. During the summer months, many popular campsites — especially those near lakes and national parks — can fill up quickly, so securing your spot in advance ensures a stress-free trip.
We also recommend downloading helpful apps like CamperMate or Rankers NZ. These tools offer real-time updates on campsite availability, track closures, dump station locations, and even nearby attractions or user reviews — all crucial when you’re navigating the country in a campervan. CamperMate is a must-have app for anyone road-tripping in a campervan. It not only maps out campgrounds but also shows petrol stations, ATMs, supermarkets, and reviews from fellow travellers. This makes spontaneous route changes or last-minute decisions much easier.
Don’t forget to follow Department of Conservation (DOC) guidelines, especially in protected areas. Staying on marked tracks, properly disposing of waste, and respecting local wildlife help preserve the environment for future travellers. These resources are your best companions for planning a smooth and responsible camping journey. The Department of Conservation’s website is a goldmine of information about facilities, safety guidelines, and seasonal updates for all DOC-managed campsites. It also provides alerts about weather hazards, fire bans, and access issues.
Lastly, the South Island’s weather can be unpredictable. It’s not unusual to experience sunshine, rain, and wind all in one day. Layering is key, especially if you’re staying at higher altitudes like Mt Cook or inland basins such as Mackenzie Country.
If you plan to try freedom camping — which is a big part of the campervan experience — be sure to check the Freedom Camping Rules by region. Not all towns permit overnight parking, and some require self-contained certification. Staying informed means you’ll avoid fines and help maintain a good reputation for campervan travellers throughout Aotearoa.
Let the Adventure Begin
You’ve got the gear and now you’ve got the guide. From alpine vistas to coastal coves, the best campsites in South Island are waiting so book your campervan in New Zealand today and head off for adventure! Whether you’re in it for solitude, sunsets or spontaneous dips in icy lakes — your next favourite spot might just be around the bend.
