Destinations
7 best Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites
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If it’s an adventure you’re after, then it doesn’t get much more exhilarating than the highest peak in New Zealand! Aoraki/Mt. Cook sits at 3,724 metres in the Southern Alps, a mountain range that runs the length of the South Island. Whether you’re an avid mountain climber or simply want to check out the stunning views, there are plenty of hikes, glaciers and snow fields to experience.
Need a base between activities? Here’s your guide to the best Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites! Our list of the top places to set up camp in Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park includes the location, price per night, highlights and amenities of each campground.
Best campsites around Aoraki/Mt. Cook: 7 spots you can’t miss
1. White Horse Hill Campground
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park 227 Hooker Valley Road, Canterbury | Adult (18+ years): $15 per night, Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night, Infant (0–4 years): free
Enjoy mountain camping at its finest. Camp beneath magnificent alpine scenery, including Mt Sefton and enjoy a variety of walks from the valley floor to mountain tops. This is one of the most scenic Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites out there.
The ideal spot to base yourself for adventure, the nature around this site is just spectacular. Sit back and listen as the ice drops from the surrounding mountains and soak up the views surrounding you.
This Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsite is basic, and you will have to walk to the public shelter in the village (2.5km away) to enjoy a hot shower after a day of walking and exploration. That said, there are flush toilets, shelter for cooking and water from a tap available at camp.
Book now.
2. Glentanner Park
Aoraki Mount Cook, Aoraki Mount Cook 7946 | From $66
Just 18km from Mt. Cook National Park, Glentanner is a brilliant holiday park with all the creature comforts you need for a relaxing visit.
While you’re there, you don’t want to miss the Glentanner Heli Hike, which takes you away from the familiar tourist route, offering exclusive access to the family-owned Glentanner Station. It’s one of New Zealand’s most historic stations with beautiful surroundings. You can enjoy a helicopter flight taking in incredible views, before continuing on foot down the farm track. It’s a 5km track that you won’t forget any time soon.
At this Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsite, you can enjoy free wifi, laundry, TV lounge, along with a campground ablution block (hot showers), kitchen, dining and lounge area, and BBQ pavilion.
Book now.
3. The Pines, Lake Pukaki Freedom Camping
Tekapo 7999, New Zealand | Free
Settle in for the night with Mt. Cook as your backdrop at the peaceful and quiet The Pines, Lake Pukaki Freedom Camping. This site sits right on the lake, so you can enjoy a paddle (if the weather allows) during the day, and lie back for a spot of stargazing after sunset. Secluded from city sites, this is one of our favourite Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites.
It’s first in first served, and you need to respect the rules of freedom camping in New Zealand. That means only camping in self-contained vehicles only, and leaving no trace of your visit.
Lastly, the pines provide the perfect shelter throughout your stay but remember to rug up, as it can get chilly!
4. Jan’s Beach Freedom Camping
Hayman Rd, Pukaki, New Zealand | Free
Another great spot for freedom camping, Jan’s Beach Freedom Camping is a hidden gem! One our favourite Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites, it is the perfect place to park up in a self-contained campervan.
Take in all the stunning mountain and lake views, as you spend your afternoons relaxing after busy days exploring the nearby walking tracks. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is one of the best Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites to spend the night!
As a freedom camping site, it operates on a first-in, first-served basis. Again, it’s important to follow the rules, including disposing of rubbish, making sustainable choices and being sure to never take anything.
5. Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park
2902 Franz Josef Highway, Franz Josef / Waiau 7886, New Zealand | From $40
You’ll find Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park nestled below the incredible panorama of towering mountains, glistening glaciers and flourishing forests.
During your stay, take advantage of scenic flights over the glaciers, or simply put your walking boots on and head out into the forest to explore the many hiking trails.
The campsite itself is equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay. There’s a communal kitchen and dining area, BBQ area and communal shower and toilet. There’s also plenty to keep big and little people busy, including a games room, playground and even a jumping pillow to get rid of some of that excess energy.
6. Otto/McDonalds Camping Area
Westland Tai Poutini National Park, South Island 7886, New Zealand | Adult (18+ years): $15 per night, Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night, Infant (0–4 years): free
Located in Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Westland Tai Poutini National Park in the West Coast region, the Otto/McDonalds Camping Area is easily accessible for campervans and motorhomes.
One of the best Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites for adventurists, it has lots of water activities on its doorstep. Bring out the boat, settle back for a spot of fishing for trout or, if the weather allows, or swim in Lake Mapourika.
Back at camp, you’ll find shelter for cooking, flush toilets and water from a tap.
7. Gillespie Beach Campsite
Westland National Park, 7886, New Zealand | Adult (18+ years): $10 per night, Child (5–17 years): $5 per night, Infant (0–4 years): free
Looking for something a little bit different? Get away from the bushland and camp near an old gold mining settlement and a seal colony.
Make your way to Galway Beach, which is the perfect spot for a dip on warmer days. Looking for an adventure? Fox Glacier is a 35 minute drive away! Get there by van or helicopter! Around the area, you’ll also discover tracks leading to historic suction and bucket dredges - uncover some of the history and how it used to operate back in the day!
Back at the campsite, you’ll find flush toilets, a shelter for cooking and tap water.
Hire a van for your Aoraki/Mt. Cook camping trip
Ready to explore Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park? With 23 peaks over 3,000 metres high, there’s enough to excite even the most adventurous of holidaymakers! Head off on mountain walks, take off to the sky for the perfect glacier views, or enjoy the challenge of mountaineering. But first, sort out campervan hire on the South Island with Camplify and pull up to one of these fantastic Aoraki/Mt. Cook campsites!
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