Lake Tekapo campervan sites: 5 most scenic locations

Part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, Lake Tekapo is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge in nature. Just three hours southwest from Christchurch, the small township looks across a stunning turquoise-coloured lake that gets its colour from rock-flour ground from glaciers. Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure holiday or a peaceful escape, here are five amazing Lake Tekapo campervan sites to set up camp at!

Best campervan sites in Lake Tekapo: 5 spots you can’t miss

1. Mackenzie Waitaki RV Camping

3540 Fairlie-Tekapo Road, Tekapo 7999, New Zealand | Free

If you’re looking for a free spot to pull up your campervan for the night, then this freedom camping option at Lake Tekapo is just perfect for you! Located on a hill that overlooks the Mackenzie Basin of Lake Tekapo, this spot is suited to self-contained campervans.

At the park, you will find non-flush toilets and a picnic area, with nothing else but to sit back and enjoy the view. There’s no booking system, simply operating on a first come, first serve basis. It’s a three-night maximum stay that will definitely have you feeling recharged! Just remember to leave no trace when you head off again.

Learn more.

2. Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand | From $27

Enjoy stunning views across the turquoise Lake Tekapo right on your doorstep. Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park is the ideal base for your adventures, just a short drive to Lake Tekapo lookout, Cowans Hill Walkway and Silver River Stargazing.

One of the most accomodating and comfortable Lake Tekapo campervan sites, there are so many options when it comes to staying at this holiday park. Choose from three types of powered sites: a Sealed lakeview site, a Shingle site and a Grass site.

There’s also plenty of facilities to enjoy during your stay. Make use of their two kitchen areas, BBQ facilities, showers and toilets, with laundry also on-site.

Book now.

3. Lake Alexandrina Campground

217 Lake Alexandrina Road South, Tekapo 7999, New Zealand | Adult: $10

One of our favourite Lake Tekapo campervan sites, this is the perfect spot to relax away from the hustle and bustle - simply lie back and gaze at the stars. It’s located right on the lapping waters of Lake Alexandrina, which is just a short 10-minute drive to Lake Tekapo.

Down the road you will find Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking, the Mt John Summit Circuit Track, and can even make a stop at Tekapo Springs.

The campsite itself is very basic. You will find non-flush toilets (bring that paper!), but no showers or running water. You also have to drive down a gravel path to get there so make sure your campervan is up for the job! This campsite runs on a first come, first served basis.

4. NZMCA Park Tekapo

Te Araroa Trail, Canterbury 7999, New Zealand | On top of member shop: $5 per night for adults over 16 years

If you’re a member of the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association, then this campsite is well worth a visit. The NZMCA operates a network of parks across New Zealand, offering access to their members in campervans. For just NZ$90 a year (plus a one-off joining fee of $150), you can enjoy all the benefits - including this amazing campsite.

This beautiful park has so much to do, with plenty of walking and cycling tracks, right along Lake Tekapo. It offers up jaw-dropping views with easy access to the lake.

Their sites tend to be fairly basic, offering up plenty of space to park your campervan, along with non-flush toilets - all you need for a great trip!

Find out more.

5. Lake McGregor Campervan Site

Lake McGregor Tekapo 7999, New Zealand | $10 per night

This basic campsite is located on stunning Lake McGregor, just a short drive away from Lake Tekapo. Resting on the shores, it offers peace and quiet for a tranquil getaway.

Dip in the lake, go for a paddle, or take a stroll down one of the many walks in the surrounding area to really appreciate nature in all its glory.

As you might expect, the facilities are minimal with running water (but not for drinking) and toils for use.

Book now.

Hire a campervan for your Lake Tekapo trip

Lake Tekapo is the perfect base to head off exploring Mount Cook National Park, sending you onto Hooker Valley, Tasman Glacier, Red Tarns and more. Or, you can simply rest your head under the stars and recharge your batteries. Amazing night skies await you at these incredible Lake Tekapo campervan sites!

Looking for more places to explore? Check out these Canterbury camping grounds to extend your trip! When you’ve decided where to set up camp, organise campervan hire in the Canterbury region to take you there.

Alternatively, for more shoreline campsites, discover the best Lake Benmore camping grounds or, if you're not sure where to holiday, the best lake camping spots in all of New Zealand!

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