Hitting the open road in a campervan is an amazing way to see New Zealand. You’ve got your home on wheels, a full tank of gas, and a map of incredible South Island campervan campsites. But deciding where to park for the night can feel like a big question mark. You want that perfect spot with the killer view, not a crowded lot next to the highway.

That’s exactly why I put this guide together. We’ve explored the coastlines and winding roads to find the very best South Island campervan campsites. Forget the guesswork and get ready for nights spent under starry skies and mornings waking up to breathtaking scenery.

Wharariki Beach Holiday Park: Golden Bay’s Wild Side

If you’re looking to really get away from it all, this is your place. Wharariki Beach Holiday Park sits at the far northwest corner of the island, a couple of hours from Tākaka. It’s a true back-to-nature spot where you can disconnect and unwind from the busy tourist routes.

The famous beach is just a 20-minute walk from your campsite. You’ll find sculpted dunes, the incredible Archway Islands, and even baby seals playing in the rock pools. What you won’t find is much phone signal, and that’s a big part of its charm for a proper digital detox.

The park has powered and unpowered sites, but be aware there’s no dump station here, so you need to plan for that. As the day ends, you’re treated to amazing sunsets over the Tasman Sea. On a clear night, the stargazing is simply stunning without any light pollution to spoil the view.

Top Tip For Travelers – Visit CMG Campers in Christchurch if you are looking for a caravan or motorhome. They have a great range and also some offroad caravans that will be ideal for the south island. 

Tōtaranui Campground: Beachfront Living in Abel Tasman

Deep in Abel Tasman National Park, you’ll find the beautiful Tōtaranui Campground. This spacious DOC campsite is surrounded by native bush and sits right on a golden sand beach. It’s perfect if you want to stay close to nature and wake up to the sound of waves.

Life here moves at a relaxed, beachy pace, making it an ideal example of bay camping. You might start your day with a swim and end it with a walk along the coast. The facilities are basic with cold showers and toilets, but everything is kept clean by the DOC staff.

Bookings are a must during the summer months as this is one of the most popular camping spots in the region. This spot is ideal for walks in the park, especially as a base for exploring the Abel Tasman Coast Track. You can take a water taxi for a day hike to Anapai Bay and enjoy the beautiful trail back to the campground.

Pelorus Bridge Campground: A Riverside Escape

Located between Blenheim and Nelson, Pelorus Bridge is a peaceful spot by the river. It’s surrounded by native forest and feels like a true retreat. This is one of those places where you plan to stay one night but end up staying for three because of its relaxing atmosphere.

The river water is cool and crystal clear, which is perfect for a swim on a hot afternoon. There are also great walking tracks nearby where you can listen to some of the best birdsong around. You might even hear the flutter of New Zealand’s endangered native bat at dusk.

The Pelorus Bridge campground offers powered and unpowered sites, hot showers, and kitchen areas. There’s even a small cafe just a short walk away. You’ll need to book your spot ahead of time, especially during peak season, to secure a place in this popular park campsite.

Kōhaihai Campsite: Where the Wilderness Begins

At the very end of the road in Kahurangi National Park lies Kōhaihai Campsite. This spot is at the start of the Heaphy Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. It feels remote, wild, and incredibly peaceful, a true escape on the rugged West Coast.

You just find an open space and park your campervan among the nikau palms. Overhead, you’ll see these unique trees sway in the breeze. The sound of the Tasman Sea roaring just beyond the beach is a constant, calming presence.

Kōhaihai is great for exploring coastal walks and watching for native birds. But, be ready for the local sandflies; they can be quite persistent. This DOC campsite is best for self-contained campervans as there is no power and very limited facilities.

Gentle Annie’s Campground: Classic West Coast Vibe

For a taste of old-school Kiwi beach camping, you have to stop at Gentle Annie. Many people say it’s one of the top campervan park destinations on the South Island. It really captures the quiet magic of the West Coast.

On one side you have the Mokihinui River, and on the other, the Tasman Sea. The campground itself is tucked among trees and gardens, giving you plenty of privacy. There’s also a cafe on site serving coffee and treats, and they even have a station to make your own wood-fired pizzas.

The atmosphere here is special because of the welcoming people and the stunning location. You can also book wood-fired hot tubs for a soak under the stars. It’s a wonderful place to relax and absorb the laid-back West Coast lifestyle.

Finding the Best South Island Campervan Campsites

So many amazing camping spots offer different experiences across the South Island. It’s really about what you’re looking for on your trip. Do you want something rustic and remote or a place with all the comforts of home?

Punakaiki Beach Camp: Next to the Pancake Rocks

Punakaiki Beach Camp is perched right on the edge of the wild West Coast. It’s a fully serviced campground with everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll get powered campervan sites, bathrooms with hot showers, and a communal kitchen.

The main attraction here is your closeness to the beach and the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks in Paparoa National Park. You can spend the day exploring the incredible limestone formations and blowholes. Then, watch an incredible sunset over the water right from your campsite.

This is the perfect base to soak up the West Coast atmosphere. You’re also within walking distance to several short hiking trails through the lush native forest. It provides convenience without sacrificing the feeling of being immersed in nature.

Ōkārito Campground: Serenity by the Estuary

Ōkārito is a quiet little haven that’s a dream for wildlife lovers. It’s framed by lush rainforest and the Tasman Sea. Here, you’ll see native birds like tūī and fantails, and the lagoon often hosts the rare kōtuku, or white heron.

The campground is made for slow, quiet stays. You’ll find unpowered sites along with hot showers, toilets, and a laundry room. Spend your days walking the lagoon trail, kayaking on the calm water, or just relaxing by a beach fire in the evening.

Milford Sound Lodge: Rainforest Campervan Park

The journey to Milford Sound is spectacular, and staying there is even better. The Milford Sound Lodge operates the Rainforest Campervan Park Milford, the only camping option in the area. This campervan park is nestled in Fiordland National Park, putting you right in the heart of the action.

This isn’t your average camping ground; you are literally parked in a rainforest. The sites are well-maintained, and waking up to the sounds of native birds is unforgettable. Being the only sound lodge offering camping, booking far in advance is absolutely essential, as spots are very limited.

From the Milford Sound campground, you are within walking distance of the boat terminal for fjord cruises. This means you can be the first on the water in the morning, long before the tour buses from Queenstown arrive. The main lodge has a restaurant and a cozy lounge area where you can relax after a day of exploring.

White Horse Hill Campground: Base for Mount Cook

For those wanting to explore Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, the White Horse Hill campground is the place to be. This DOC campsite offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. You’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, including New Zealand’s tallest mountain.

The main draw of White Horse Hill is its incredible location. It is the starting point for several popular hiking trails, including the famous Hooker Valley Track. This walk leads you over swing bridges to a glacial lake with icebergs floating at the foot of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

The facilities here are basic, with toilet blocks and a large shelter for cooking, but no showers. This is a true mountain camping experience, offering great views right from your campervan window. During a clear starry night, the view of the Milky Way above the Southern Alps is absolutely breathtaking.

Lake Pukaki Freedom Camping: Views of Aoraki

Parking next to the milky-blue waters of Lake Pukaki is an experience you won’t forget. This freedom camping site gives you one of the best views in the country for free. You get a perfect frame of Aoraki/Mount Cook across the water on a clear day.

The reflections on a still morning are unbelievable, creating picture-perfect moments. Because it’s so popular, the best spots fill up fast, so try to get there early. There are no power or showers, just long drop toilets and a whole lot of stunning scenery.

Travel writers often call this spot magical. You can enjoy the most stunning views right from your window. It truly feels a world away from everything, especially as you watch the night skies light up in this dark sky reserve.

Lakes Edge Holiday Park: Comfort in Lake Tekapo

Right on the shore of Lake Tekapo, you’ll find Lakes Edge Holiday Park. You’re surrounded by picture-perfect views of the lake and snow-capped mountains. This whole area is part of an International Dark Sky Reserve, so the stargazing is world-class.

The park is a comfortable base with modern facilities, perfect for those who enjoy a few more creature comforts. You can choose from powered or unpowered campervan sites. It’s a peaceful spot for walking, stargazing, or just relaxing by the clear blue water.

Moke Lake Campsite: A Queenstown Secret

Just a short drive from the hustle of Queenstown lies Moke Lake, a serene DOC campsite that feels like another world. Tucked away in a quiet valley, this camping ground is set on the shores of a stunning mirror-like lake. It’s a fantastic alternative to the busier holiday parks.

Moke Lake is perfect for those who enjoy hiking, mountain biking, or kayaking. A beautiful walking track circles the entire lake, offering incredible reflections of the surrounding mountains. It’s an ideal spot for an afternoon of quiet relaxation.

Facilities are limited, with toilets and tap water, but no showers or powered sites. It’s a back-to-basics experience that rewards visitors with tranquility and great views. Arrive early to claim a prime spot by the water’s edge.

Driftaway Queenstown: Camping with a Touch of Luxury

Driftaway Queenstown is where you go for premium camping. It looks out over Lake Wakatipu with the stunning Remarkables mountain range in the background. It feels less like a campground and more like a boutique stay.

The sites are spacious and modern. You’ll find clean showers, a fully equipped kitchen, a modern lounge area, and even a hot tub to relax in after a day of exploring. It’s a great spot to enjoy a glass of local pinot noir and take in the view.

Kingston Lake Camp: Wakatipu without the Bustle

At the southern tip of Lake Wakatipu is Kingston Lake Camp. It’s a simple, scenic freedom camping spot. This place is wonderfully quiet, with mountains behind you and the lake right in front.

This site is rustic, with no power or showers, just wide-open spaces and the freedom to pick your own spot. It’s an all-time favorite for many travelers looking to escape the Queenstown crowds. Getting there early is a good idea to grab a spot right on the edge of the lake to watch the sunset.

Pūrākaunui Bay Campsite: Rugged Beauty in the Catlins

Down in the Catlins, Pūrākaunui Bay feels like a scene from a movie. A beautiful beach and cascading waterfall give this DOC bay campsite a special feel. It sits just above the sand, offering a great base for surfing or wildlife spotting.

You might even spot sea lions lounging on the beach. It’s common to see them resting on the sand, so be sure to give them plenty of space. The facilities are basic, with non-flush toilets and grassy, unpowered camping areas, but the incredible views make up for the lack of amenities.

Here is a table summarizing some of the top camping grounds:

Campsite Name	Location	Type	Key Feature	Facilities
Wharariki Beach Holiday Park	Golden Bay	Holiday Park	Proximity to wild Wharariki Beach and seals.	Powered sites, kitchen, no dump station.
Tōtaranui Campground	Abel Tasman National Park	DOC Campsite	Beachfront location on the Abel Tasman Coast Track.	Unpowered sites, cold showers, toilets.
Milford Sound Lodge	Fiordland National Park	Holiday Park	Only campervan park in Milford Sound.	Powered sites, kitchen, lounge area, restaurant.
White Horse Hill Campground	Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park	DOC Campsite	Base for Hooker Valley Track with epic mountain views.	Unpowered sites, shelter, toilets, no showers.
Lake Pukaki Freedom Camping	Mackenzie Basin	Freedom Camping	Unbeatable free views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.	Toilets only, very limited facilities.
Moke Lake Campsite	Near Queenstown	DOC Campsite	Secluded, peaceful lake perfect for photos.	Unpowered sites, toilets, tap water.

Tips for Your South Island Campervan Trip

A little bit of planning goes a long way. Knowing a few things before you go can help your South Island camping road trip run smoothly. It makes the whole experience much more relaxing.

Arrive Early at Your Camping Spot

If you travel during the summer or school holidays, try to book your campsites ahead of time. Popular spots in places like Queenstown and national parks fill up fast. Most commercial holiday parks offer online bookings, and many popular DOC campsites now require them too.

For DOC campsites that are first-come, first-served, it’s smart to arrive early in the day to get a good spot. This is especially true for freedom camping sites, which can get crowded. A DOC campsite pass can be a cost-effective option if you’re planning on staying at many DOC sites.

Responsible Freedom Camping

Freedom camping means parking overnight on public land, not in a designated campground. It’s a great option, but your campervan must be certified self-contained. This just means your vehicle has its own toilet, fresh water tank, and grey water tank, identifiable by a blue sticker.

Rules change depending on the local council, so always check their websites or use an app like CamperMate for the latest info. It’s important to respect the rules, like “leave no trace,” to keep these areas open for everyone. A good resource is the guide to freedom camping in New Zealand.

Understand the Variety of Campsites

The cost of South Island camping varies depending on the type of site. DOC campsites are usually the most affordable. Some are free, while others have a small fee for basic facilities like toilets and non-potable tap water.

Commercial holiday parks, or a campervan park, cost more but give you more comfort. You’ll often find powered sites, hot showers, laundry, and WiFi. It’s good to mix and match to get a bit of everything on your trip, from rustic wilderness to modern convenience.

The South Island is truly a paradise for campervan travel. You have so many incredible choices, from rugged, remote beaches to comfortable lakeside parks with great views. Picking the right South Island campervan campsites for your journey is part of the fun.

Each camping ground offers a different slice of New Zealand’s stunning landscape. Whether you’re waking up in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park or falling asleep to the sound of the West Coast waves, the memories will last a lifetime. These camping areas are waiting to be explored.

Hopefully, this list gives you a great starting point to plan your adventure. Now all that’s left to do is pack your bags, hit the road, and make some amazing memories. The perfect spot is out there waiting for you.