
Camping in Southland
Camping in New Zealand is a popular pastime and Southland has an abundance of campgrounds available. As a land of the outdoors, it's not surprising that a night in the outdoors is a preferred accommodation option.
Is there anything better than sitting around a campfire on a starry night, listening to the sounds of waves crashing on the beach or the soft trickling sounds of forest rivers.
Southland
Camp-friendly events
Where can you camp in Southland?
Like in the rest of New Zealand, you will find all kinds of camping types in Southland, from Holiday Parks to Freedom Camping, here are what you can expect in Southland.
Holiday Parks and Campgrounds
Most Holiday Parks and Campgrounds in Southland offer epic views for a budget-friendly price. You will find powered and non-powered sites for tents, caravans, campervans and motorhomes. They sometimes also offer cabins, self-contained motel units and backpackers' lodges. Easy access to a shared kitchen and bathroom facilities is always part of the deal.
Department of Conservation campsites
The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages over 20 public camping areas on conservation land throughout Southland. You will find these sites in some of our most beautiful places, like Pūrākaunui Bay, for example. These campsites usually don’t have an on-site manager and are operated in a typical kiwi way: on a trust basis. Facilities are typically minimal and basic, but fees are very reasonable and sometimes even free. Tents, campervans, motorhomes and caravans are all welcome on DOC campsites.
Freedom camping
There are certain areas in Southland where you can pull over, park your campervan or motorhome or set up your tent and camp for the night free of charge.
When freedom camping in Southland and the rest of New Zealand, you must always do the following:
- Use public toilets or the portable toilet in your vehicle
- Leave no trace
- Dispose of all rubbish responsibly, or take it with you
- Keep detergents, soap, toothpaste etc., out of waterways
- Only use approved dump stations to dispose of motorhome waste
Southland
Accommodation
Southland has an abundance of places to stay, offering plenty of variety, no matter your itinerary or budget.
Hotels & Lodges
Spectacular scenic views. Beautifully historic buildings. Architect-designed luxury. There are so…
Bed & Breakfasts
Southern hospitality might be best experienced staying in a warm and welcoming Bed & Breakfast…
Luxury
Want to spend the night at a luxury farmstay? Wake up in style in Milford Sound? Or see the…
Unique Stays
From the most stunning views and remote locations to quirky or downright luxury places to sleep…
Motels
Southland offers motels that meet all needs, both in budget and experience. With easy access to the…
Cabins & Cottages
Cozy up in a cabin or cottage in Southland. Whether you’re looking for a home away from home…
Farmstays
If you are after an authentic Southland experience you can’t go past a farmstay. There is…
Holiday Homes
Holiday homes, or 'cribs' as we call them in Southland, are the perfect accommodation if you…
Backpackers & Hostels
All the backpackers and hostels in Southland are so welcoming. The variety is endless, and no matter…
Pet Friendly
Here in Southland, we’re pretty smitten with our furry friends. Visitors can find plenty of…