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There’s something magical about waking up in Queenstown with a full tank of fuel, the Southern Alps on your doorstep, and the freedom of a campervan at your fingertips. At Campervan New Zealand, we know exactly how exciting that feels because we’ve done it ourselves. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you discover the very best day trips from Queenstown, with a self-drive, campervan-focused twist.
We’re not here to give you generic “top 10” lists. This is about real experiences, practical advice, and uncovering those little gems you might miss if you were following the tour buses.
Why Travel Queenstown by Campervan?
Driving a campervan around Queenstown gives you total freedom. You’re not tied to tour schedules, you can stop for photos whenever you like, and best of all, you’ve got your mobile kitchen, bathroom, and lounge all in one place. Whether it’s a picnic overlooking Lake Wakatipu or brewing your own coffee while parked near a waterfall, this kind of travel is about comfort and connection.
Campervanning also makes economic sense. You’re combining transport and accommodation, and many sites offer free or low-cost parking overnight, especially useful if one of your day trips turns into an overnight adventure.
But before you hit the road, let’s cover a few campervan basics:
- Always check local freedom camping rules. Queenstown is camper-friendly, but you’ll need a self-contained van and awareness of designated spots.
- Download the CamperMate app—it’s a lifesaver for finding dump stations, water refills, and last-minute campsites.
- Plan fuel stops. Some destinations, like Glenorchy, don’t have petrol stations.
Best Day trips from Queenstown
Now let’s dive into the good stuff.
Arrowtown & Lake Hayes (19 km / 20 min)
This is one of the easiest day trips from Queenstown and perfect for a relaxed campervan outing. Arrowtown oozes gold rush charm. Think heritage buildings, boutique shops, and one of the most photogenic main streets in all of New Zealand.
It is a picturesque settlement 20 minutes from Queenstown, is steeped in the history of the Otago gold rush. Established in 1862, this town has preserved over 60 historical buildings from that era. Visitors can wander by restored cottages, explore gold mining sites along the Arrow River, and immerse themselves in the town's rich heritage.
You can park your campervan at the free public carpark on Ramshaw Lane. It’s a short stroll from there to the historic centre.
On your way back, swing by Lake Hayes for a picnic. There are lakeside pull-offs ideal for a campervan lunch or quick swim in summer. If you’re up for a walk, the 8 km Lake Hayes Loop Track offers stunning reflections and mountain views.
Camper Tip: Arrowtown Holiday Park is nearby if you want to stay the night. Clean facilities and power hookups make it a great base.
Gibbston Valley Wine Country (30 km / 30 min)
Just a short drive from Queenstown lies the Gibbston Valley, home to some of the world’s southernmost vineyards. Pinot Noir is the star here.
Over 70% of the grapes grown here are pinot noir, with chardonnay, pinot gris, riesling, and sauvignon blanc also cultivated. Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours, wine tastings, and the annual Pie, Pint, and Pinot festival, celebrating the region's rich viticultural heritage.
Stop at Gibbston Valley Winery for a wine cave tour and cheese tasting. Many wineries have designated campervan parking and are happy to host responsible drivers. Make sure to plan your route so the driver isn’t sampling too much!
There are some freedom camping areas along the Kawarau River. Check signage carefully. Or book a night at the Gibbston Valley Campground if you want to enjoy dinner and wine without worrying about the drive.
Camper Tip: Bring a cooler to store wine purchases, especially in summer.
Glenorchy & Paradise (45 km / 45 min)
The drive to Glenorchy along Lake Wakatipu is easily one of the most scenic in New Zealand. Towering peaks, mirror-like waters, and roadside pull-offs make it a photographer’s dream.
Glenorchy itself is a sleepy, outdoorsy village with coffee spots, a general store, and trails like the Glenorchy Lagoon Boardwalk or the start of the Routeburn Track.
Drive another 20 minutes and you’ll hit Paradise. Yes, it’s a real place, and yes, it lives up to the name. The road turns gravel but is usually suitable for campervans in good weather.
Camper Tip: No fuel in Glenorchy so top up in Queenstown. The DOC campsite at Kinloch is a favourite if you decide to stay the night.
Moke Lake (15 km / 25 min)
Tucked behind Queenstown via a gravel road off Glenorchy–Queenstown Rd, Moke Lake is a quiet, reflective spot that feels like a secret.
The 7 km Moke Lake Loop Track is a lovely 2–3 hour walk around the lake. There’s a DOC campsite with basic toilets and ample space for campervans. If you love stars, Moke Lake is designated a dark sky area, so pack your telescope or download a stargazing app.
Camper Tip: Go early in the day or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Pack insect repellent...sandflies love this spot.
Wanaka via Cardrona (67 km / 1 hour)
While Wanaka deserves more than a day, it’s still doable in a long summer day if you leave early. Drive over the Crown Range, the highest sealed road in New Zealand, and stop for coffee at the historic Cardrona Hotel.
Once in Wanaka, stroll the lakefront, snap a photo of #ThatWanakaTree, and enjoy lunch at one of the many campervan-accessible lakefront parks.
The drive back via Cromwell makes a satisfying loop if you don’t want to return the same way.
Camper Tip: Use the Wanaka i-SITE’s public dump station before heading back to Queenstown.
Not Quite a Day Trip: Milford Sound
Technically, you can drive to Milford and back in a day, but we strongly advise against it. It’s 4 hours each way, not counting stops, and there’s too much to see to rush.
Instead, consider breaking the journey in Te Anau or booking a cruise + flight combo. You’ll save time and still get the full experience.
Camper Tip: If you go overland, stay overnight at the Milford Sound Lodge campervan park. Book well in advance.
Some Sample Itineraries
Classic Circle: Arrowtown > Gibbston > Glenorchy
A great all-day loop. Start early in Arrowtown, then follow the Kawarau Gorge into wine country. After lunch and a tasting, return through Queenstown and head out along the lake to Glenorchy for sunset.
Nature Immersion: Moke Lake > Glenorchy > Paradise
For outdoor lovers. Begin with a morning walk at Moke Lake, then drive to Glenorchy for lunch. If the weather holds, continue to Paradise and enjoy total stillness before returning.
Extended Day: Wanaka & Back
Leave at 7:30am. Stop at Cardrona for breakfast, spend midday in Wanaka, and return via Cromwell by dusk. Perfect in summer when daylight stretches late.
Campervan in Queenstown FAQs
Can I freedom camp in Queenstown?
Only in certified self-contained vans and in designated areas. Fines apply elsewhere.
What’s the best time of year for campervan day trips?
Late spring to early autumn (October–April) offers the best weather and longer daylight.
Do I need a special licence?
If your licence is in English and covers the same class of vehicle, you're good. Otherwise, bring an International Driving Permit.
Where can I dump waste?
Queenstown Holiday Park, Frankton Motor Camp, and DOC sites like Moke Lake all offer dump stations.
What app should I use?
CamperMate or Rankers NZ. Both work offline and are goldmines of campervan info.
Now, Make It Yours
Queenstown is your launchpad, but the real adventure happens beyond the town. When you’ve got a campervan, a map, and a sense of curiosity, the Southern Lakes become a playground of discovery.
At the heart of every road trip is the freedom to choose your own path. With these day trips, you’ve got a blend of nature, culture, food, and views...all wrapped into drives that are not only beautiful, but also campervan-friendly.
So start the engine, roll down the windows, and let Queenstown lead you somewhere unforgettable. Happy exploring!
