Destinations
5 best Catlins camping grounds
)
Plan a Catlins camping trip to discover a spectacular coastal stretch between Balclutha and Invercargill. This stunning spot is the most unsung of South Island regions, featuring attractions like Purakaunui Falls and Nugget Point Lighthouse.
Spend your days hiking the trails and spotting magnificent wildlife, including fur seals, sea lions and more! Then head back to base with our ultimate guide to the best Catlins camping grounds. Our list includes price, location, features, nearby attractions and more.
Best camping grounds in the Catlins: 5 spots you can’t miss
1. Whistling Frog Holiday Park
9 Rewcastle Road Chaslands, Papatowai 9586, New Zealand | Powered sites from $50 per night
Here’s one of the best Catlins camping grounds to base yourself for outdoor adventures. Settle back in the secluded heart of the Catlins Conservation Area, where you can check out Cathedral Caves and McLean Falls.
Take off on one of the several unique walks around the area. Head to the nearby Curio Bay in summer to see Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf. Venture to Tautuku Beach just 9km down the road, or take a stroll down Tautuku Estuary Boardwalk. Just be sure to bring your camera to capture some magical views!
Enjoy all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay, with a laundry, self-catering kitchen and communal areas, including showers and bathrooms.
2. Purakaunui Bay Campsite
Purakaunui Bay Scenic Reserve Catlins Coast, Southeast, New Zealand | Adult: $10 per night, Child (5-17 years): $5 per night, Infant (0-4 years): Free
Camp right on the coast and spend your mornings waking up to face striking cliff faces lining your view.
During the day, head on a walk to discover the incredible Purakaunui Falls, which cascades 20 metres in three tiers and is one of Otago’s most-photographed sights. Prefer hitting the beach? Head just south of the camp to discover an amazing surf beach that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping. You’ll also find Cosgrove Island just off the coast, which is a wildlife refuge. Plus, check out Jack’s Blowhole 10km to the north.
This is one of the more basic Catlins camping grounds, offering up non-flush toilets, water from a tap and wheelchair access. Make use of a campfire, roasting marshmallows and soaking up the view at the end of a busy day.
3. Catlins - Newhaven Holiday Park, Surat Bay
324 Newhaven Road, RD 1, Catlins, 9585, Owaka 9585, New Zealand | From $35
Whether you’re looking for adventure or a place you can relax and unwind, Newhaven Holiday Park has it all. Located in the heart of the Catlins at Surat Bay, it’s just 5km from Owaka, with plenty to see and do around the area!
Enjoy beach access to Surat Bay, where you can take a stroll along to the adjoining Cannibal Bay. If you’re ready to venture out further, you can check out some of the incredible waterfalls in the area, along with Cathedral Caves. Alternatively, book a local horse trek or hit the water for some kayaking.
The campsite has plenty for you to enjoy with a large chess set, seasonal camp garden, outdoor toys and a trampoline. There’s also a BBQ area, full-equipped kitchen, lounge area, laundry and more.
4. Thomas's Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park
8 Clark Street, Owaka 9535, New Zealand | From $19 per night
Settle back with some stunning rural views in a tranquil environment at Thomas's Catlins Lodge & Holiday Park. This is one of the most peaceful Catlins camping grounds.
Take a drive to explore the nearby area, heading for a lovely stroll down Catlins River or Lake. Just 20 minutes away, you can check out Nugget Point Lighthouse, which provides a panoramic platform to view the Catlins coast.
During your stay, hire a bike to explore the area and use the dump station, laundry facilities, TV lounge, games room and more. There’s even a restaurant onsite so you don’t have to think about meals!
Book now.
5. Pounawea Motor Camp
Pounawea Road, 1 Park Lane, Owaka 9585, New Zealand | From $20 per night
Situated 2.5km from Owaka on the Southern Scenic Route, this is one of the most beautiful Catlins camping grounds.
Make a trip to Tunnel Hill and enjoy a scenic walk through a historic reserve, taking you down to a 19th Century railway tunnel that’s waiting to be explored. Or escape further into nature and visit the cascading Matai Falls.
At the campsite, make use of the laundry facilities and hot and cold showers. There’s also a full kitchen with gas hobs.
Book now.
Hire a van for your Catlins camping trip
Enjoy native forests, deserted sandy beaches, glistening bays and cascading waterfalls right on your doorstep at the best Catlins camping grounds! But first, sort out campervan hire in the Southland with Camplify and set yourself up for an unforgettable Catlins road trip.
For more travel inspiration, check out some of the best camping spots in the Southland!
Why Camplify?
We are proud to be New Zealand’s fastest-growing private caravan, campervan and motorhome sharing community. When you hire a van through our platform, it comes with lots of advantages:
Comprehensive hire insurance
Nationwide AA roadside assistance
24/7 customer support
All members are verified
By hiring with Camplify, you are also helping local families who share their van on our platform and supporting many local companies across New Zealand in addition to ours. So we are very grateful to you.
Sign up if you want to join our beloved community of van life lovers and receive our most recent news and offers.