Destinations
5 best Ashburton camping grounds
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Have a hankering for some fly fishing, want to explore craftsy boutiques and art galleries or just ready to get out into the South Island’s great outdoors? Then an Ashburton camping trip should be on the cards!
Located on the East Coast of the South Island in the Canterbury Region, Ashburton sits between two major rivers: Rakaia and Rangitata. This bustling town is only an hour from Christchurch and surrounded by beautiful wilderness not far from the ocean. It is the perfect camping destination if you want to enjoy mother nature with cultural activities and creature comforts nearby!
Not sure where to set up camp? Here’s your guide to the top Ashburton camping grounds including price, location, features, nearby attractions and more.
Best Ashburton campsites: 5 spots to sleep under the stars
1. Ashburton Holiday Park & Lodge
62 Maronan Road, Tinwald, Ashburton 7778, New Zealand | From $18 per person, per night
This Ashburton camping ground is just 4.5km from the town centre and right next to Tinwald Domain, where you’ll find a duck pond, playground and tennis courts.
During the day, make your way to The Plains Vintage Railway & Historical Museum, which is great for a picnic, or head to Trott’s Garden for their award-winning lawns. There’s also the Ashburton Aviation Museum, Ashburton Art Gallery and even the Ashburton Harness Racing Museum where you can discover plenty more about the area and its history.
Arguably the best part? Ashburton Holiday Park is pet-friendly too, by prior arrangement. There’s also plenty of facilities with two communal kitchens, three communal bathrooms, TV room, and an outdoor community swimming pool next door that’s open during summer.
Book now.
2. Hakatere reserve campground
4/6 Hakatere Drive, Wakanui 7777, New Zealand | From $5 per night
Just 18 minutes from the town centre of Ashburton, this Ashburton camping ground is a beautiful spot to spend your night, right on the Ashburton River and Canterbury Bight. Sit back, relax and enjoy some stunning scenery over the river mouth and beach!
While you can’t access the sand from this campsite, Wakanui Beach is just 10 minutes down the road and a great spot for fishing (swimming isn’t recommended). Also, head into town to visit the many museums in the area or have a picnic at Ashburton Domain.
During your stay, meet friendly caretaker Carol who is happy to answer any questions you might have! While facilities are basic, there are toilets onsite.
3. Abisko Lodge & Campground
84 Main Street, Methven 7730, New Zealand | From $36 per night
Just a little over 20 minutes from the town centre, this Ashburton camping ground is close to the foothills of Mount Hutt. It’s also just a one-minute stroll into Methven village, with plenty of restaurants, cafes and pubs to visit.
Abisko Lodge is perfect in the winter months if you’re hoping to head to the ski slopes, or there’s plenty of walking and biking tracks around the area to be discovered.
After a busy day on the slopes, chill out in their comfortable lounge and cosy up next to the wood burner. There’s even a spa and sauna onsite to get those muscles nice and relaxed. There is also a laundry, kitchen and toilets ready to use.
4. Methven camping ground
72 Barkers Road, Methven 7782, New Zealand | From $25 per adult, per night
Join hosts Darren and Rhonda Saunders at this Ashburton camping ground, which is set in large grassy grounds and is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Ashburton is just a 20-minute drive down the road, where you can spend the day visiting the many museums and parks.
Closer to camp, take the short walk into Methven town, where you can check out the many shops, pubs, cafes and more. Enjoy scenic walks, settle in for a spot of fishing, brave some water sports, go skiing at Mt Hutt, or soak in the Opuke Thermal Hot pools just two minutes away.
At the campsite, you can avail of coin-operated toilets and showers, laundry facilities, a fully-stocked kitchen, lounge with TV and log fire, games room with pool tables, table tennis, foosball and dart board, a children’s play area with swings, slides, bars and a trampoline.
5. Mount Somers Holiday Park
87 Hoods Road, Mount Somers 7771, New Zealand | From $26 per night
30 minutes away from Ashburton town centre, you’ll find Mount Somers Holiday Park set in a quaint country setting right near the mountains, this is the ideal spot to base yourself for hikes and trips to the water.
Mt Somers Village is home to about 200 residents, and is a great launch pad for the Mt Somers Track. After exploring the nearby area, head to the Ashburton Gorge with its stunning lakes to enjoy plenty of water sports, from kayaking to jet skiing.
Back at camp, you will find a camp kitchen, TV room, toilets, showers, a laundry, as well as a small store.
Hire a van for your Ashburton camping trip
Ready to check out everything Ashburton has to offer? The perfect stop on your way to exploring the greater Canterbury region, you’ll find plenty of heritage sites, creative attractions and outdoor wonders to explore. Simply sort out campervan hire in Canterbury and set off on the ultimate road trip adventure! With our list of the best Ashburton camping grounds, you have the perfect spot to base yourself.
Want some more destination inspiration? Check out these Canterbury camping grounds!
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