Campsites in Waikato

Waikato offers a wide mix of campsites, from quiet reserves along the Waikato River hydro lakes like Lake Whakamaru and Little Waipa to forest sites such as Piropiro and Kaniwhaniwha in the bush-clad ranges. Some spots are simple and remote, others closer to coastal holiday parks, so check access, conditions and facilities before you set up for the night.

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

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