We stayed here four nights (the max you can in any one month) in mid summer.

An easy 15ish minute drive from Taupo town center with loads of car parks as it is a parking lot. Lots of other campers but even on the busiest night there was still space. Right next to a dam with walks around. The dam opens at 10 am and every 2 hours till 4pm so if you’re still around the place in the morning many people will arrive to visit the dam but most leave within 20-30 minutes after the opening. Next to a river so good for kayaking but we didn’t try to swim. Toilet is a long drop that can be sparse of toilet paper so bring your own. Also take care of the metal door as it’s quite loud when opened/closed as it’s heavy. Overall an easy and pleasant, safe spot for camping. Gets a bit chilly at night so a sweater and extra blanket is a good idea.

Reviewed over 3 years ago and experienced in January 2022