The best forest campgrounds in New Zealand

New Zealand’s forests aren’t just for hiking—you’ll find 27 forest campsites scattered from the mossy beech groves of the South Island to the fern-lined paths up north. Pitch your tent among towering podocarps or set up near quiet streams. Top picks include Brackenthwaite (43 reviews), where birdsong greets you at sunrise, and Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika (8 reviews), tucked just outside the West Coast rainforest. For a spot near Middle-earth, Camp in nature close to Hobbiton (5 reviews) puts you steps from farmland and leafy trails. Expect campfires, hot showers, and basic toilets at most spots. Keep an eye out for native birds, try your luck at fishing, or saddle up for horseback riding. Prices start at $12 a night, with most sites averaging $30. Bring your own rubbish bags—many sites are pack-in, pack-out. Local tip: the forest gets damp after rain, so waterproof your gear and prepare for sandflies.

92% (73)

Top-rated campgrounds

New Zealand’s forests aren’t just for hiking—you’ll find 27 forest campsites scattered from the mossy beech groves of the South Island to the fern-lined paths up north. Pitch your tent among towering podocarps or set up near quiet streams. Top picks include Brackenthwaite (43 reviews), where birdsong greets you at sunrise, and Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika (8 reviews), tucked just outside the West Coast rainforest. For a spot near Middle-earth, Camp in nature close to Hobbiton (5 reviews) puts you steps from farmland and leafy trails. Expect campfires, hot showers, and basic toilets at most spots. Keep an eye out for native birds, try your luck at fishing, or saddle up for horseback riding. Prices start at $12 a night, with most sites averaging $30. Bring your own rubbish bags—many sites are pack-in, pack-out. Local tip: the forest gets damp after rain, so waterproof your gear and prepare for sandflies.

92% (73)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. River Bends

98%

(69)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Te Kuiti

River Bends is a private site in the bend of a river flowing through a deep limestone ravine and old Totara and Matai forest, the site is situated in open space allowing access to stunning views of the surrounding rock formations river features and bushland. Composting toilet and clean water on tap are provided at the site.

2. Camp in nature close to Hobbiton

100%

(5)

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tauranga

Our place is a private location for a few guests that are preferably self-contained (we are living off grid). We do have water on the land and you can access our Starlink internet at our cabin. Other than that, you'll have cell coverage almost everywhere on the property. You'll love staying here because it has amazing views and scenery as it is close to native forests, rivers, streams and waterfalls. We have several spots on the property available, so you'll have privacy if you want. As it is located directly at the State Highway 29, it's easily accessible, and we have gravel and dirt roads through the property. The property is in the midst of nature, yet close to major towns such as Tauranga (20 min), Cambridge (45 min), Hamilton (1 hour). We are also only about 30 min away from Hobbiton (Matamata). We have several chicken and are happy to provide eggs for an additional charge. We also have a very friendly dog and she will want to say "hi" to you. You're welcome to use a composting toilet and warm shower. If you come before 11 am, we give you a tour around the property as well. The price is for 2 people, please let us know if there are more of you.

3. Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arrowtown

Steeped in history and charm, Arrowtown is a must-see. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown offers the perfect location to explore this unique goldmining town. Arrowtown is an old gold mining town near Queenstown which was built on the banks of the Arrow River in 1862. The town is renowned for its stunning autumn colours and rich history. Our Arrowtown Holiday Park is a great base so you can explore this unique town and the surrounding area. Hampshire Holiday Parks - Arrowtown is just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre with its beautiful, restored buildings, specialty restaurants and unique shops. Arrowtown centre – 600m Chinese settlement – 1km Arrowtown Golf Club – 2km Queenstown – 20 minutes Coronet Peak Ski Resort – 20 minutes Wanaka – 50 minutes Our Arrowtown Holiday Park has a variety of accommodations that will suit all budgets – from our fully self-contained tourist flats, ensuite studios, lodge rooms, to powered sites, tent sites and electric vehicle sites.

4. Dune Lakes Lodge - Retreat & Horses

1 site · Lodging ·

🌿 Dune Lakes Retreat & Horse Inspired Learning Centre is nestled on the wild and beautiful South Kaipara Head Peninsula, just 60 minutes from Auckland CBD. This peaceful sanctuary is set among rolling sand dunes, native bush, and Lake Kereta — a stunning freshwater dune lake. Campers can choose from a variety of sites — some tucked into quiet corners close to the stunning wetland and others open with wide skies and shimmering lake views. Whether you’d like to wake up close to the water for a swim, or camp higher up with sweeping vistas, there’s a spot for every mood. The Kaipara South Head is an ancient sand barrier separating the vast Kaipara Harbour from the Tasman Sea. Between the dunes lie inter-dune hollows, filled by groundwater to form freshwater lakes like Lake Kereta and the larger Lake Ototoa. ✨ To the West lies the wild coastline and 65 km stretch of Muriwai/Rangatira Beach, with breathtaking sunsets over the Tasman Sea. ✨ To the East is the sheltered Kaipara Harbour — the largest harbour in the Southern Hemisphere — a pristine environment and vital feeding ground for orca, dolphins, and countless migratory birds. Birdwatchers may spot godwits, knots, turnstones, plovers, curlews, fairy terns, and more. Shelly Beach, shaded by grand old pōhutukawa, offers swimming, a playground, and wharf access to the harbour. ✨ To the North lies the lagoon at the peninsula’s tip — a calm refuge for swans, ducks, pukeko, paradise shelduck, kingfisher, fantail, warbler, and silvereye. This retreat is also home to a thriving herd of free-roaming horses at the Horse Inspired Learning Centre, where guests can experience mindful, non-riding interactions. Their presence adds to the deep stillness of the land. Expect birdsong at sunrise, the chorus of frogs at dusk, and starry skies at night. Facilities include excellent water quality, toilets, and showers, making it simple and comfortable to immerse yourself in nature. A place to rest, reflect, and reconnect — where land, water, wildlife, and quiet beauty meet.

5. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

89%

(9)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Arahura Valley

The camp site is a private spot away from it all but only 10mins to the town. You'll have the whole camp to yourselves. Total privacy! • Families absolutely love staying on our eco-farm among the many farm animals. Friendly free ranging kune kune pigs, goats and a flock of coloured sheep as well as our cows, peacocks and ducks. You can walk the farm and get up close to all our animals. • Camp kitchen, firepit, shower and composting toilet on site. • Bring matches, paper and your firewood and marshmallows!

6. Forest & Bird Sanctuary

1 site · Tent, RV · South Island

Kia ora! / Hello! We’re situated just five minutes from the main town — but you’d never know it. Surrounded by native New Zealand forest filled with birdsong, the property overlooks the local mountain ranges, offering peace and privacy in a beautiful natural setting. We’re in the process of establishing organic food forests and vegetable gardens, creating a space that’s both sustainable and serene. Enjoy our stainless-steel, wood-fired hot tub, which uses purified rainwater — no chemicals added. There’s free Wi-Fi, purified drinking rainwater, power hookups, and a compost toilet available for guests. This is a place to relax, reconnect, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the West Coast, with plenty of nature adventures nearby.

7. Hideaway Ranch

100%

(3)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Maungaturoto, NZ

Hideaway Ranch is a family owned farm that raises beef cattle. It is steep to broken country with many patches of bush. The bush is filled with a variety of native birds and introduced species such as pheasants, peacock and quails. During rainier seasons, there is a creek flowing through the property which we’ve named The Oasis. This is a lovely spot for a picnic. A steep trek will give you one of the best sweeping views of the Kaipara. We are currently developing improved access for 4wd camp sites. Access by plane is available to our private airstrip. Please Note access my be limited during wet weather, just get in contact to confirm. Thanks

8. Dream Weavers Farm

100%

(1)

4 sites · RVs · Kawakawa

Beautiful farm with horses, cattle, sheep, goats, cooks and more. Surrounded by native bush with views. Camp next to our clear water river with water holes where you may have a dip or swim and walk your dog. Dream Weavers Farm is a quiet retreat away from it all where you can get back to nature and relax and unwind. Sites are for self contained campers priced at $25 per camper for up to 2 people and a pet or child. Extra campers and guests will incur a extra fee thankyou.

9. Dominic E.’s Land

100%

(3)

1 site · Tent, RV · Waipapa, NZ

Welcome to our paradise Ocean views over the bay of islands from our 10 acre block of farm land and native bush with a spectacular small waterfall and swimming hole andl gardens . Approximately 10 km from the town of Kerikeri and 6 km from Waipapa easy access to the beautiful beaches of Northland

from

NZ$25

/ night

10. Nature's Haven

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Tuakau

23 Arces - large amount of fruit trees and natural springs. From plums, mandarins, nectarines and cherry plums. Berries of all kinds, blueberries, blackberries etc Birds ranging from Tuis, parrots and cockatoos. Thundercross dirt bike park within 12 minutes and Naike Cafe and caves 12 minutes away in opposite direction.

11. Māra Kokotoha

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

We are 16 acres on a gentle slope at the west end of Whangārei near the Pukenui forest. We are in the process of rebuilding native forest as well as developing a new orchard. We have a well established banana grove which we harvest throughout the year. We are in a relatively quiet space for being just 15 minutes to town center and you'll wake up to rich bird song every morning and fall asleep to the sound of ruru calling from the trees. We are a few minutes to the lovely Pukenui forest reserve, 15 minutes to Parihaka, 20 minutes to Whangārei Falls and Abbey Caves, 35-50 minutes to bay and open ocean beaches. LGBTQIA2SP+ friendly! Kid friendly!

12. Belfast orchard

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

Belfast orchard Is very quite and very picturesque Lovely spot Walk to local golf course and very handy to town Horse riding available on property too Horse stables available. Just find a lovely spot and park up Fruit and vege shop also on site with barrister coffee. Bring your pet if you want just look after it Come on in and enjoy

13. Twin Coast Cycle Trail Nature Lodge

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Ōkaihau

Reset Retreat is an eco-retreat nestled away on 25 acres of private, native forest filled with Northland Brown Kiwis, glow worms, freshwater springs, Rurus, and resident native birds. We are right on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and have access to several kilometers of private hiking trails that are yours to explore. You will have your own private guest wing and balcony with gorgeous views over this hidden valley. At night, you can sit by the fire and take in the stars, glow worms and kiwi calls. By day, you can explore the cycle trail and all the awesome local tourism Northland has on offer. You will have your own covered balcony and outdoor cooking space (pictured), your own entry and room (pictured), and private ensuite with shower. We have worked hard as Kaitiaki of this land over the last three years, working alongside the Northland Council to protect the kiwis, forest and animals here. As a result (alongside Kiwis) you can also see Titiwai/glow worms, Kererū, Tui, Tomtits, we have spotted longtailed bats outside our house on dusk, Ruru, Riroriro, Cave and Tree Wetas, the rare and gorgeous, large, green Puriri Moths, Piwakawakas, Peacocks, and a host of other native and non-native animals, insects and plants. Reset Retreat is fully off-grid – that means our power comes from the sun, our water comes from the rain, our internet comes from Starlink satellites and our heat comes from our fireplace (with a heat transfer system that disperses the heat throughout the house).

Camper favorites in New Zealand

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Hideaway Ranch

100%

(3)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Maungaturoto, NZ

Hideaway Ranch is a family owned farm that raises beef cattle. It is steep to broken country with many patches of bush. The bush is filled with a variety of native birds and introduced species such as pheasants, peacock and quails. During rainier seasons, there is a creek flowing through the property which we’ve named The Oasis. This is a lovely spot for a picnic. A steep trek will give you one of the best sweeping views of the Kaipara. We are currently developing improved access for 4wd camp sites. Access by plane is available to our private airstrip. Please Note access my be limited during wet weather, just get in contact to confirm. Thanks

Dream Weavers Farm

100%

(1)

4 sites · RVs · Kawakawa

Beautiful farm with horses, cattle, sheep, goats, cooks and more. Surrounded by native bush with views. Camp next to our clear water river with water holes where you may have a dip or swim and walk your dog. Dream Weavers Farm is a quiet retreat away from it all where you can get back to nature and relax and unwind. Sites are for self contained campers priced at $25 per camper for up to 2 people and a pet or child. Extra campers and guests will incur a extra fee thankyou.

Dominic E.’s Land

100%

(3)

1 site · Tent, RV · Waipapa, NZ

Welcome to our paradise Ocean views over the bay of islands from our 10 acre block of farm land and native bush with a spectacular small waterfall and swimming hole andl gardens . Approximately 10 km from the town of Kerikeri and 6 km from Waipapa easy access to the beautiful beaches of Northland

from

NZ$25

/ night

Nature's Haven

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Tuakau

23 Arces - large amount of fruit trees and natural springs. From plums, mandarins, nectarines and cherry plums. Berries of all kinds, blueberries, blackberries etc Birds ranging from Tuis, parrots and cockatoos. Thundercross dirt bike park within 12 minutes and Naike Cafe and caves 12 minutes away in opposite direction.

Māra Kokotoha

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

We are 16 acres on a gentle slope at the west end of Whangārei near the Pukenui forest. We are in the process of rebuilding native forest as well as developing a new orchard. We have a well established banana grove which we harvest throughout the year. We are in a relatively quiet space for being just 15 minutes to town center and you'll wake up to rich bird song every morning and fall asleep to the sound of ruru calling from the trees. We are a few minutes to the lovely Pukenui forest reserve, 15 minutes to Parihaka, 20 minutes to Whangārei Falls and Abbey Caves, 35-50 minutes to bay and open ocean beaches. LGBTQIA2SP+ friendly! Kid friendly!

Belfast orchard

100%

(1)

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

Belfast orchard Is very quite and very picturesque Lovely spot Walk to local golf course and very handy to town Horse riding available on property too Horse stables available. Just find a lovely spot and park up Fruit and vege shop also on site with barrister coffee. Bring your pet if you want just look after it Come on in and enjoy

Twin Coast Cycle Trail Nature Lodge

100%

(1)

1 site · Lodging · Ōkaihau

Reset Retreat is an eco-retreat nestled away on 25 acres of private, native forest filled with Northland Brown Kiwis, glow worms, freshwater springs, Rurus, and resident native birds. We are right on the Twin Coast Cycle Trail and have access to several kilometers of private hiking trails that are yours to explore. You will have your own private guest wing and balcony with gorgeous views over this hidden valley. At night, you can sit by the fire and take in the stars, glow worms and kiwi calls. By day, you can explore the cycle trail and all the awesome local tourism Northland has on offer. You will have your own covered balcony and outdoor cooking space (pictured), your own entry and room (pictured), and private ensuite with shower. We have worked hard as Kaitiaki of this land over the last three years, working alongside the Northland Council to protect the kiwis, forest and animals here. As a result (alongside Kiwis) you can also see Titiwai/glow worms, Kererū, Tui, Tomtits, we have spotted longtailed bats outside our house on dusk, Ruru, Riroriro, Cave and Tree Wetas, the rare and gorgeous, large, green Puriri Moths, Piwakawakas, Peacocks, and a host of other native and non-native animals, insects and plants. Reset Retreat is fully off-grid – that means our power comes from the sun, our water comes from the rain, our internet comes from Starlink satellites and our heat comes from our fireplace (with a heat transfer system that disperses the heat throughout the house).

Stories from the community

Krista

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

1 night at River Bends

Even though we arrived in the middle of the night in the rain, instructions were clear and we woke up to the surprise of the beauty of the site. Be prepared to open multiple gates, but the end location is well worth the effort.

F

Furkan

November 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to River Bends

We Loved that place, really incredible. Also Tim the landlord is a very nice Person. Recommend IT 100%

L

Lucia

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Bends

great and friendly host, lovely scenery and some cool rocks

P

Phil

October 2025

7 m Class A

1 night at River Bends

I love that it was in a very secluded area with limestone Bluffs and a river flow through property. It was very tranquil. There was no one else around. I had very nice restroom facilities and also had freshwater on the property . If you want to relax, this is a place to go, plus it was absolutely beautiful.

M

Maggie

September 2025

7 m Class B

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Beautiful, scenic and peaceful location! We were the only ones there, and it was a truly special stay.

L

Leah

August 2025

Tent

1 night at River Bends

Beautiful area, easy to find, nice facilities. Thank you for the firewood and matches.

F

Flo

June 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

We really liked staying there. Super nice spot. Very peaceful. Even nice in winter with a little campfire.

A

Alex

June 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Camp in nature close to Hobbiton

Amazing host, hot shower and great amenities. Just wish we arrived earlier to explore their rainforest. Remember to say hi to Maia their gorgeous dog!

Dave

May 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Great place to unwind and take in the great little creek and amazing cliffs overhead. Nice toilet and best of all you can build a fire and just sit back and relax.

S

Shannon

May 2025

7 m Class A

With kids

1 night at River Bends

An incredible place to stop over. It was lucky for us that the space was available but that we had also found this treasure at the end of our trip because if it was at the beginning we may not have left. The drive in appears steep but with a slow approach we easily got our 6berth motorhome down to the site which was beautifully laid out

C

Candice

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Magical spot next to the creek and the amazing cliffs.

B

Brooke

April 2025

5 m Class A

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Epic property and amazing camping spot! Highly recommend! Wish we lived in NZ to come back again. Our 6 person RV made it up and down the hill fine. We also loved the creek for a swim spot 😍 P.s love the new toilet addition

X

Xuguang

March 2025

7 m Class B

Group trip

1 night at River Bends

Stayed at the terraces for one night. This is one of the most scenic campsites that I've been to in my two weeks in New Zealand with the limestone cliffs and ajacent forest and stream. Tim and his dad are kind enough to bring us around for a walk through the enchanting forest. Gravel roads and compost toilets seems to have been newly added. Previous comments seems to have mentioned that the road may be too steep for larger vehicles. But for my visit, the new gravel tracks worked fine for my 7.4m campervan, so no worries on that. Do camp here if u are in Waitomo!

M

Matthew

March 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Super nice spot. My second time there and won't be the last.

S

Selena

March 2025

7 m Class B

1 night at River Bends

Incredible oasis away from the hustle. Unique features to explore, gracious hosts, this place was a joy!

N

Nico

March 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to River Bends

We stayed here for a very peaceful night then climbed the next day. The river bend site is stunning, we saw a lot of native birds over a quiet breakfast. The loo is well built and pleasant to use, and Tim has done an amazing job of keeping it simple but effective. The stream and gorge is great fun to explore. Wasn't hard to find as long as you read the instructions and follow the reflective markers on the posts. Tim is a lovely guy keen for people to enjoy this spot. During our visit he was building toilets for the terraces site just up a small hill from river bends.

T

Thomas

March 2025

7 m Class B

1 night at River Bends

This was a beautifully picturesque and secluded campsite nestled among limestone cliff and rivers. Would definitely recommend. Had a great toilet and running water. It is about a ~25 min scenic drive from Ruakari caves to the campsite.

j

jen

March 2025

8 m Class A

Weekend Trip to Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

Wow!!! We spent 12 days in the South Island camping and this place was the highlight. This may be the best hipcamp I’ve EVER stayed at. If you are looking for a true secluded camping experience, outdoor living, and (as an add bonus) hanging with pigs, chickens, and peacocks this is the place to be. Everything from the kitchen to the bathroom is made from recycled materials. If you have kids there is a great area for them to play and a “secret trail” with tree house for them to explore. This is what camping is about. I would have paid twice this to stay at blue spur farm. I hope the rest of New Zealand catches on to hipcamp.

R

Roshan

February 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to River Bends

An unforgettable day surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, clear skies, and flowing streams. We enjoyed a relaxing time by the water, great conversations, and a delicious BBQ. The perfect mix of fun, nature, and good vibes—already looking forward to the next adventure! A huge thank you to Tim and his parents for their incredible support in making this trip so special. Their generosity, hospitality, and effort in organizing everything made the experience even more enjoyable. We truly appreciate it!

M

Matthew

February 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Bends

Fantastic campsite. Very tranquil. Toilet was wonderful. Will be back.