Camping Grounds

The Camping Is Genuinely Good Here

The Wanaka Region has a solid spread of camping options, from full-facility holiday parks to basic DOC sites sitting right on the water. My pick for a holiday park in town is Wanaka Tasman Holiday Parks - well-reviewed for good reason, clean facilities, friendly staff. If you want something a bit more scenic and don't mind driving ten minutes out of town, there's a lakeside option at Glendhu Bay that has that classic Kiwi camping feel to it.

Lake Hawea Is Worth the Drive

Over at Lake Hawea you've got two good choices depending on what you're after. Kidds Bush Reserve is a real beaut of a DOC site - basic but beautiful, and well-placed if you're doing an early start on the Isthmus Peak hike or chasing a sunset shot from the ridge. Just note the drive in isn't suited to larger motorhomes. For full facilities, The Camp is a bit further along the lake and has been doing the job for generations of Kiwis.

If you're heading north toward Makarora, Wonderland is worth knowing about - small, well-rated, and a good base if the DOC sites nearby are sandfly central. Albert Town Camping Ground is also worth a mention if you want something close to Wanaka but a bit more relaxed - no bookings, first come first served, and usually enough space even in the busy periods.