Came here to use their showers, there was a man in the ladies so I waited as I thought he might be the cleaner.

Waited 30 minutes and he was still in there so I left to find somewhere else. Looks like the site of long term campers/residents - looked a bit dodgy and glad I moved on.

Reviewed 6 months ago

Campsite closed!!

June 2024. Drove the whole gravel track to be met by a closure sign on the campsite gate. Don’t waste your time- go to Waihi Gorge instead

Reviewed 6 months ago

Came here June 2024 desperate to use their showers other users had mentioned.

Half the campsite was closed due to the Winter season and unfortunately it was the half with the showers in! Toilets were ok but I left in search of somewhere else to scrub up.

Reviewed 6 months ago

Last minute decision to come here based on other reviews and I’m so glad I did!

It’s gorgeous. Drop loo closest to the walk was the nicest. Made good use of the fire pits about. Walk to river is a bit tedious… be prepared to take shoes and socks off to wade through water- or be prepared to get them wet if you take the longer route through the grass/marshland. It’s not a proper path so be careful, very easy to think you’re about to step on grass and end up in knee deep water. Look on satellite view on maps to help you. Lots of dead wood on the rocks here for fires. Incredible views in the day and at night of the stars. Easy to get too. Wished I’d stayed an extra night!

Reviewed 6 months ago

The dirt track is about 5km south of where the location is marked on the map.

Unsuitable for long vehicles, will definitely ground it in places. Road is either really smooth with mud (bad if it’s wet or icy) or really rocky and lots of deep potholes. There was a closed gate when I arrived but no sign saying the site was closed- think it was probably to keep livestock out. The drop loo is tiny with no paper or sanitiser.

Somebody else said this place had a creepy vibe to it and I took no notice. As soon as it was dark the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. I was the only one at this site and a solo traveller as well but I was convinced I could hear footsteps and voices close to me. I ended up getting so freaked out that I packed up everything and drove that dirt road a lot faster than I did on the way in. I was gone before 7pm. I’m sure it would be fine if you’ve got company or the site has more people but this place really does have a creepy vibe if you’re by yourself. Ended up at Lake Cromwell which felt much safer.

Reviewed 6 months ago

There is another campsite just before this one with a hand drawn sign stating “Canaans Down Campsite”.

Keep going past this place, the real campsite is at the end of the track. Long gravel road with few passing spots and steep drops on the edges.

Drop loos were in good condition.

I’d advise getting there early so you can get a spot away from the tree line - the wind can really pick up here, enough to fell a tree and there are signs saying not to park near them.

Beware of the Weka birds… they’re smart. They know what they’re doing. They act all cute, shy and friendly at first, and then they steal your pizza right out your hand! I turned away for a second and they were in the back of my camper. It’s a matter of time before they learn how to drive and steal your vehicle, then they’ll be in bed with your partner and reading your kids bedtime stories and you’ll be out on the streets before you know it. Don’t give in! Stay strong and guard your food.

Reviewed 6 months ago

Nice to have flushing toilets but they are about a 2 minute walk from where you’re allowed to camp.

Gorgeous views of the lake, would be very peaceful although ruined for me by some lady sobbing loudly for hours who was camping right at the jetty- where you’re not allowed. Once the sobbing stopped decided to play loud music for half of the South Island to listen to as well. I hope for other users that she’s not a long term resident.

Reviewed 6 months ago