We’ve heard so many camping fails from mates who’ve done the whole pitch a tent, only for their campsite to be like a muddy swamp after midnight rain. Or, others who wasted time stuck in the queues for the only working loo. 

It’s those kinds of camping letdowns that made us look into what makes camping on the South Island of New Zealand different—and frankly, better. 

We reckon if you’re going to rough it, you might as well do it right, with scenery that makes you stop in your tracks at campsites that actually make you want to stay longer than an hour. So, here are the best campgrounds we found in the South Island. 

1. Kaka Point Camping Grounds

Address: 34 Tarata Street, Kaka Point

Contact Details: +6434128801

Website

Kaka Point Camping Grounds made our list because it nails that sweet spot between comfort and a proper bush setting. There are 35 powered sites, 15 non-powered, and even standard cabins for those who like camping with a side of luxury. 

The little upgrades here are what won us over: free hot showers, a kitchen stocked with all the basics, and a TV lounge for when the weather turns. 

The BBQ area is perfect for a family cookout, and the UV-filtered water means campers can leave the bottled stuff at home.

A local told us the communal laundry is awesome, since they don’t have to trek into town or scrub clothes by hand. But it’s coin-operated and gets busy in the afternoons, so campers should plan if they want to get their washing done before dark. 

That aside, the whole place has a peaceful vibe. A regular camper told us she loves waking up to Tuis and Bellbirds right outside her tent.

Pets are also allowed, but only from February 15 to December 20, and campers must call ahead for approved sites.

Clean and modern bathroom 

“Quite and comfortable camp site with nice new cabin units and large green field. Clean and modern bathroom and well equipped kitchen. Only thing needed is more cutlery. Very friendly and cute cat, hope to see photo of it in the future. WiFi is not fast nor very well covered, but that’s beyond the point because you are supposed to chill out and enjoy the nature.”

– Ken Lam, Google Reviews 

Fantastic campground with clean communal kitchen

“Fantastic campground with clean communal kitchen & bathrooms (and laundry!). Two little cabins available as well, comfy & warm. Staff are super friendly and kindly put the heater on for me as it was a chilly evening. Kitchen has plenty of crockery/utensils. Good location, walking distance to Kaka Point beach & short drive to the magnificent Nugget Point. Great value for money.”

– Ross Batchelor, Google Reviews 

2. Herbert Forest Campground

Address: 99 Breakneck Road, Herbert 9495

Contact Details: +6434395658

Operating Hours: 

Website

Herbert Forest Campground is basically proper old-school camping, with room to spread out and a bit of wildness around the edges. They maintain the classic tent camping approach with hot showers included, no extra coins or tokens needed. 

We loved how the sites are nestled among big trees and shrubs, giving campers real privacy (no staring at the neighbour’s washing line). 

They are also pet-friendly. One regular told us that she loves having little Fido along for her morning jogs around the campsite.

Nature is also what this site is known for. One local shared that one morning, they had Fantails flitting around, and the nearby Waianakarua River is perfect for a quick swim on a hot day. 

The only real downside is the patchy mobile reception. If campers need to work remotely, it can be a pain—one camper said he missed a last-minute work call because the signal dropped out.

Loads of open space with trees for shade

“When we stayed here there were a few dozen caravans dotted around but no one staying in them, only a couple other people on site so it was very peaceful but a little eerie. Loads of open space with trees for shade. No designated sites, just pick a spot, there are some fire pits and picnic tables around. There is also a kitchen, washing machine, flushing toilets, and hot showers.”

– Sally, Google Reviews 

Camping ground like they were in the 80s

“Camping ground like they were in the 80s! Beautiful location, relaxed environment, clean facilities, great value, and so much to do including biking, walks, swimming and more. Very large powered sites, and every site has a fire pit! You can buy wood at reception or scrounge for your own. A great place for families. Just remember to bring your bikes!”

– Dene McDonald, Google Reviews 

3. Gillespie Beach Campsite

Address: Unnamed Road, Westland National Park

Website

Gillespie Beach Campsite has awesome, picturesque views of the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea. One family shared that they camp here because they can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves and wake up to views of snow-capped peaks. 

There are also plenty of aesthetic experiences to be had at this campground. A couple we spoke to raved about the short walk to see authentic relics from old gold mining. 

Another local told us the sunsets here are unreal, and they even spotted a seal or two down on the beach shores. 

Campsite-wise, we found the facilities—two flushing toilets, a kitchen shelter, and plenty of space—well above average for such a remote spot. It’s a top pick for anyone wanting a proper wilderness experience while still having the basics covered. 

The only real con? Sandflies—lots of them, especially at dusk. One family said they went through more insect repellent than they care to admit.

Nice campsite next to the beach

“Nice campsite next to the beach. However: it’s really nice if you have a tent to pitch, it’s more of a parking lot if you sleep in a car/van (no possibility to camp near the beach or grassy area, so I would not call it the best DOC campsite out there personally). There are about 20 parking spots and 12 reserved spots for people who have booked online, so you can also just hope you get a spot when you come (when we were there it filled up before sunset!). Good flush toilets and small shelter, and some walks to do around. Gravel road access, but very well maintained and easy drive.”

– Marjolein Snellink, Google Reviews 

Perfect place to stay off the beaten track

“This was stunning, short stones throw to a spectacular beach, take a walk through historic settings to the fork in the path, which direction will you go? Through the grass covered dunes or the rocky path through the Forrest.  Take the time to relax on the beach, enjoy the fire pit and flushing toilets. But remember to boil your water first if you want to drink from the taps. Perfect place to stay off the beaten track. Thanks DOC”

– Thomas, Google Reviews 

4. Freedom Camping Site

Address: 195 Weir Road, Slope Point 9884

Website

The Freedom Camping Site is next to a beautiful estuary that locals love for its amazing sunrises and sunsets. A local camper showed us photos and told us the sunrises are worth getting up early for. 

Although this campground doesn’t have many luxurious amenities, it does have clean toilets and a shared sink for campers. However, one woman told us they don’t stock soap, so campers have to bring their own.  

Facilities aside, we like that there’s plenty of space to pitch a tent without feeling like camping in a sardine can. A family shared that they appreciated the open space for their kids to play freely and the ability to pick wild blueberries. 

That said, it can be confusing to get here. There are two roads in, one for standard cars and one only for 4WD camper vans. 

One couple with a campervan told us they tried the other route in and ended up needing a tow. So, we’d advise checking the routes in advance. 

Has running water and a long drop

“For such an isolated camp ground this was in good state. Has running water and a long drop. If you’re there at low tide go gather some cockles”

– Jack Wynne, Google Reviews

Beautiful surroundings

“Very beautiful site to stay, one clean toilet and a sink for your dishes. Don’t need anything else really, plenty of grass and  natural fence.  Beautiful surroundings. Very chilled place.

Getting there is not bad, we have 2wd van and had no difficulty.

Check out the little art hidden in the big tree!”

– Petra Chaloupkova, Google Reviews

5. Lumsden Freedom Camping

Address: 13 Diana Street, Lumsden 9730, New Zealand

Lumsden Freedom Camping offers the rare combo of proper freedom camping right in the heart of town—without sacrificing convenience. 

The Lumsden Information Centre, just next door, is perfect for stocking up on last-minute supplies. One camper told us she appreciates being able to come here to grab a quick to-go meal or things like tissues, snacks, and more. 

We also like the variety of activities near this campsite. A family told us they enjoyed the quick stroll to the Historic Lumsden Railway Station, exploring the old trains and soaking up the town’s history. 

For cyclists, the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail starts just nearby, letting campers take in some classic Southland.

However, tents are not allowed at this campsite. To keep things tidy, campers are only allowed to stay on this site in a campervan with built-in amenities. 

And despite their seven-day maximum stay rule, the designated spots fill up fast. One family told us they always arrive early to snag a spot. 

A very luxurious and generous campsite 

“Lumsden really up the camping game with this spot: 4 square and a restaurant just 2 mins walk, some picnic tables under the old station, drinking water and a basin, as well as flush toilets! This is a very luxurious and generous campsite so please help them take care of it.”

– Andy Widopo, Google Reviews 

Very accommodating for everyone

“Wow. Lumsden want campers and traveller’s alike to come and stay here. Very accommodating for everyone.  Self Contained and not self contained. Clean toilets, a laundromat Kiosk on side of road ( 8kg cycle for $5 was out if order). At the Lumsden train station there is an area to wish your dishes. Blue lines self contained, green lines non self contained.”

– Annie Hackett, Google Reviews