Campsites in Waikato

The Waikato spreads across rolling farmland, river valleys and the shores of its mighty lakes and dams, giving overlanders plenty of quiet places to pull up for the night. Campsites here range from lakeside reserves and grassy riverbanks to remote bush clearings and high backcountry huts. Expect easy-access spots near the water and more rugged options deeper in the ranges.

Arohena Campsite

Arohena Campsite is a roomy riverside spot on Lake Arapuni in the Waikato, with sheltered bush sites, a boat launch and great swimming and fishing.

Dunham's Point Reserve

Dunham's Point Reserve is a peaceful free camping spot on Lake Whakamaru in the South Waikato, with hot showers, riverside grassy sites and lovely lake views.

Jones Landing Campsite

Kakaho Campsite

Kakaho Campsite is a popular riverside camp in Pureora Forest Park, Waikato, with podocarp forest, swimming holes and a scenic rimu loop walk.

Lake Whakamaru Reserve

Little Waipa Reserve

Ngaherenga Campsite

Ngaherenga Campsite in Waikato's Pureora Forest Park is a basic, peaceful native-forest spot with outstanding birdlife and easy 2WD access.

Piropiro Campsite

Piropiro Campsite is a spacious, well-kept DoC site in Pureora Forest Park, Waikato, with sheltered fire-pit spots, river scenery and nearby 4x4 and walking trails.

Waipakihi Campsite

Waipakihi Campsite is a bush-fringed riverside camp off the Desert Road in the Waikato, no facilities and a genuinely tough 4x4-only access track.

Wildlife Hut

Campsites in other regions

Get out there and explore more.

Download Overland Navigator free for iPhone or Android and start planning your next 4WD adventure - with New Zealand’s best tracks, campsites, and trips ready to go whenever you are.

Start Exploring With Overland Navigator