4 best Lake Benmore camping grounds

Looking for the best Lake Benmore camping grounds? Created in the 1960s, New Zealand’s largest artificial lake has two arms: the Haldon Arm, fed predominantly by the Tekapo, Pukaki and Twizel rivers and the Ohau Canal; and the Ahuriri Arm, fed by the Ahuriri River.

With this much water and surrounding wilderness, there are plenty of reasons to go camping by this South Island lake - enjoy some boating, swimming and hiking before winding down at one of the area’s top campgrounds. Below, we share our ultimate guide to the best Lake Benmore camping spots. Read on for maps, prices, features, nearby attractions and much more!

Best Lake Benmore campsites: 4 spots you can’t miss

1. Lake Benmore Camping Ground - Ohau C

Glenbrook 7999, New Zealand | From $30 per night

This Lake Benmore camping ground lies right on the shore, so you can set up a base with sweeping waterfront views. As well as fishing, swimming and boating adventures on your doorstep, there’s tons to do around the Mackenzie region.

Our top recommendations further afield? Head an hour north to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to check out the native plants and bird life on a lengthy hike! Alternatively, take a scenic flight from Lake Tekapo to treat yourself to some breathtaking vistas.

Back at camp, you’ll enjoy access to toilets, water, a dump station and rubbish facilities. There are also three boat launch facilities, along with a jetty.

Book now.

2. Lake Benmore Holiday Park

State Highway 83, Omarama 9412, New Zealand | Book here

Lake Benmore camping doesn’t get much better than this! Resting on the banks, this holiday park provides tree-sheltered camping spots just seconds from fishing, boating and other water sports.

Alternatively, check out the Clay Cliffs nearby or hike to the Lake Benmore Lookout. You can also hire a bike and take on a section of the Alps2Ocean Trail! Alternatively, head a little further afield to Loch Laird Reserve where you’ll find a tranquil place with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

With Lake Benmore Holiday Park’s standard campsites, you have access to a shared bathroom with modern toilets and hot showers. Of course, you can also book campsites that come with your very own private ensuite, offering a little more privacy.

Book now.

3. Benmore Views Campground

J57W+GR, Totara Peak 7999, New Zealand | From $22 per person per night

If you’d like to enjoy Lake Benmore camping at its most scenic, then head directly for Benmore Views Campground. Sitting on the waterfront, you can set up camp beside the lapping waves.

Settle down with a good book and fishing rod in hand for total relaxation. Ready for an adventure? Take a boat trip to Jumping Rock on the other side of the lake, where you can brave a jump off your platform of choice. Twizel is also only 22km away, with all kinds of shops, restaurants, cafes to explore.

The campsite is open from September to April, and you can make use of their flush toilets and hot showers throughout your stay!

Book now.

4. Falstone Creek Campground

3087640, Totara Peak 7999, New Zealand | From $25 per night

Drive beyond Benmore View Campsite and you’ll find Falstone Creek Campground along the windy road. This Lake Benmore camping site is located high up, yet still has access to the water with a boat ramp below.

Spend your days on the lake, enjoying a spot of fishing or simply checking out the scenery. 30 minutes away, you can check out the Lake Benmore Lookout on the Alps2Ocean Trail, with a hike to some spectacular views on the area. You can also drive 30 minutes in the other direction to jump on a plane and enjoy some breathtaking views from above!

Payment of the campsite is based on an honesty system with a box set up for you to place your funds. Camp here from September to June each year.

Book now.

Hire a van for your Lake Benmore camping trip

It’s time to sort out campervan hire on the South Island and head to one of the top Lake Benmore camping grounds! With Campify, you’ll find all kinds of unique vans to take you on the ultimate lakeside adventure. Filter by vehicle type, price and plenty of other optional selections to hire the perfect van for your Lake Benmore camping trip.

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