Destinations
Hamilton holiday parks: 5 best camping grounds
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Nestled on the banks of the Waikato River, Hamilton is the gateway to the Central North Island. Whether you’re looking to enjoy its many eateries, explore the wilderness or discover charming townships, there’s a little something for every holidaymaker! Get the most out of your Waikato camping trip by staying at one of our favourite Hamilton holiday parks and camping grounds.
Below, we list the top caravan parks and campsites around Hamilton so that you can access the best amenities and unwind at idyllic bases between adventures. Happy camping!
5 best holiday parks and camping grounds near Hamilton
1. Hamilton City Holiday Park

Address: 14 Ruakura Road, Hamilton, New Zealand | Price per night: from $15
Looking for the perfect Hamilton holiday parks and camping grounds? Start off somewhere close to town that caters to the entire family! Hamilton City Holiday Park Camping is centrally located just 10 minutes from Claudelands Event Centre, and a 30-minute stroll to Hamilton City Gardens and the Waikato Museum.
You can also take day trips to Raglan (just 45 minutes away) for some surfing, Auckland (1.5 hour drive) for city sights and Rotorua (1.5 hour drive) for world-famous hot springs. With so many attractions within reach, you can base yourself here for all kinds of adventures.
Hamilton City Holiday Park Camping itself has many amenities to take advantage of, from picnic benches, swings and BBQ areas to a laundry room, kitchen, and wheelchair accessible bathroom.
2. Narrows Park
Address: 442 Airport Road, Tamahere, Hamilton, New Zealand 3282| Price: enquire now
If you’re after an affordable spot to base yourself at for endless exploration, then set up camp at Narrows Park. This rural holiday park is set on 27 acres of land, just 10 minutes away from Hamilton City. Head over to the adjacent golf course to enjoy a hit or wander through the gorgeous Hamilton City Gardens nearby.
This Waikato camping ground runs all-year round, but it’s best to check whether they’re holding a community gathering or hosting a group beforehand to know if there’s space to stay. The campsite offers a number of shared facilities, including a kitchen, covered deck, bathrooms, hot showers, pool and laundry.
[Book now](https://www.narrowspark.co.nz/# camping)
3. Camping Te Kauwhata
Address: Te Kauwhata 3710, New Zealand | Price: Free, donation box available
It’s free to stay at Camping Te Kauwhata. That said, making a donation goes a long way to helping with upkeep.
As you might expect, the facilities are minimal, however there is a clean toilet for you to use throughout your stay. During the day, head off to explore the stunning Lake Waikare. Alternatively, take off further afield to visit the Waikato Coalfields Museum or enjoy a trek to Hakarimata Southern Lookout.
There are also some rules you need to follow if you’re going to free camp here: only stay up to three nights in each area and always dispose of your waste in a safe and environmentally friendly way at an approved dump station. But we promise it’s worth it - this is one of our favourite places to camp near Hamilton!
4. Huntly Camping Grounds
Address: 5 Taihua Road, Huntly 3700, New Zealand | Price: enquire now
Huntly Camping Grounds is set right on the shores of Lake Hakanoa. As well as being close to the local shops, there are plenty of nearby tracks for you to explore each day to really see the beauty this area has to offer.
The Kauri Loop Track is just a 10-minute drive down the road. Make a day of it walking through some stunning sites, and even head up Hakarimata Souther Lookout for some bucket-list views!
Back at camp, you’ll find a well-equipped kitchen to enjoy, as well as shower and laundry facilities.
5. Cambridge TOP 10

Address: 32 Scott Street, Leamington, Cambridge, New Zealand | Price per night: from $35
Cambridge TOP 10 Holiday Park is set amongst the tree-lined town of Cambridge, with all the facilities you need on hand for an easy and enjoyable stay. And there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in the surrounding region.
Head off for a stroll along the Lake Te Koutu Domain walking track, set off on a day trip to Hobbiton in Matamata if you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, venture to Wairere Falls, or visit Waitomo Glowworm caves for an unforgettable experience!
At the holiday park you will find a BBQ area, communal kitchen, and the highlight: a communal media room with a wide-screen TV and comfortable couches for you to relax back on. There’s also a jumping pillow, go karts and more to keep the kids busy.
Hire a campervan in Hamilton
With Camplify, it’s easy to sort out campervan hire in Hamilton for your next Waikato getaway. And there’s nothing more exciting than exploring the North Island’s incredible sites at your own pace - especially when you know the best Hamilton holiday parks and camping grounds to stay at along the way!
Want to extend your adventure? Take off on a road trip around Waikato and discover the wider region to your heart’s content!
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