South Island ▷ Central Otago ▷
Camping Grounds
The Route Is the Reason
Central Otago is genuinely one of the best parts of NZ to have a campervan. SH85 and 87 are made for this kind of travel - wide open country, small historic towns, and the kind of flexibility that lets you stop when something looks interesting. The camping here suits that vibe perfectly: nothing flash, but that's kind of the point.
Where to Actually Stop
St Bathans is my pick for an overnight. The St Bathans Campsite is just down the road from the Vulcan Hotel, has heaps of space, and is genuinely quiet. Do not freedom camp at the pub or the lake - the locals will not thank you for it. Further along the route, Danseys Pass Holiday Park near Naseby has been called one of the most relaxed holiday parks in NZ, and I'd believe it. And if you're down near Roxburgh, Millers Flat Holiday Park on the Clutha river is about as clean and well-run as they come.
The Freedom Camping Is Pretty Good Too
If you're self-contained, Lake Dunstan has a few solid spots - Lowburn Harbour is popular and easy, and Champagne Gully gets good reviews for being quiet and tidy. Over near Clyde, Burton Creek Recreation Reserve sits right on the edge of the water above the Clyde Dam - 15 spaces, lakeside views, and free. Hard to argue with that.
Central Otago Camping Grounds
17 items with the highest ranking score first
Camping Grounds
Freedom Camping
Basic Camping
Camping NZ App
All the great camping sites on your iPhone™, iPad™ or Android™ phone or tablet. Avoid camping penalties using this council approved app. Featuring offline maps.
