The best river, stream, or creek caravan sites in New Zealand

·

Ask a Kiwi what defines New Zealand (Aotearoa), and you'll get markedly different answers depending on where they hail from—even if they only grew up hours apart. That may be because New Zealand crams diverse landscapes and experiences into its 268,021 square kilometres. You can sleep at Māori maraes, park your campervan at the foot of active volcanoes, unroll your sleeping bag metres from the sea or deep in the rainforest, or pitch a tent at the foot of snow-capped mountains. Kiwis love road trips thanks to an extensive network of frontcountry, backcountry, and even urban camping areas. Freedom camping in New Zealand is also widespread, with free camping sites sometimes even equipped with flush toilets and hot showers. Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites and holiday parks can be found in even the most remote corners of the country, while local hosts are among the most welcoming you’ll find anywhere in the world.

96% (100) 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Zealand

River Bends

1. River Bends

98%
(92)
Te Kuiti · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Off-grid with access to nature

2. Off-grid with access to nature

96%
(13)
Tauranga · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our place is a private location on the busy SH 29. It's a spot for a few guests that are preferably self-contained (we are living off grid). We do have water on the land and 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 busy State Highway 29, it's easily accessible, and we have gravel and dirt roads through the property. Please note that road sounds are unavoidable. The property is next to a rain forest and 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). You're welcome to stay here if you're travelling in a self-contained or non-self-contained vehicle. We are also happy to host you in a tent. You're welcome to use a composting toilet and warm shower. The price is for 1 vehicle/ tent and 2 people. We also offer Stand-up Paddles to hire and you can book walking tours on the property as well. We do not allow fires on our property. We speak German and English. We also have a very friendly dog and she will want to say "hi" to you. Latest check-in: 9 pm
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$43
 / night
Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

3. Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

100%
(11)
Arrowtown · 171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay just a minutes’ walk from Arrowtown’s charming main street, where heritage buildings, boutique eateries, and leafy lanes create one of New Zealand’s most atmospheric small towns. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown offers powered and unpowered sites in a peaceful, tree-lined setting with mountain views. Our spacious, level sites make accessing your vehicle easy, and you’ll find free Wi-Fi across the park, laundry, and BBQ/kitchen facilities all on-site. Kids will love the outdoor playground, and active travellers can enjoy the tennis court or hop onto nearby walking and cycling trails. A wide selection of cabins is also available for those wanting more than camping. Located just a short stroll from Arrowtown’s historic river, boutique shops and cafés, and only a short drive to Queenstown and local skifields, the park offers the perfect mix of relaxed village charm and access to big-weekend adventure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$36
 / night
Tapapa Station

4. Tapapa Station

Tirau · 1 site · Tent, RV
Small lifestyle block conveniently located on the outskirts of Tirau. Camping is available for self-contained caravans, tents, horse trucks and motorhomes. Access to water is available. Unfortunately, can’t accommodate dogs but guests are welcome to bring their horses for an additional $10 per horse. Please bring standards and tapes as you will be camping in the same paddock as your equine friends. Horse friendly hay can be purchased onsite. The famous Blue Springs are close by and there are lovely hiking, walking and biking treks in the area. A 35 minute drive will take you to Cambridge and Rotorua. Matamata is a 20 minute commute and the beautiful Kaimai ranges are not too far away either- lots to see and do around here. Please note: check in time can be flexible so just enquire to finalise if you would like to check in before 4pm.
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Terako Downs POP

5. Terako Downs POP

100%
(1)
Waiau · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Creatives at heart, Debbie and Frits both love the arts. They love listening to music, collecting vintage pieces (both clothing and artefacts that you can view in their museum!) & hosting dinner parties and events. Their idea for opening Terako Downs was born from their love of sharing. Coming out of owning a business in Dunedin, they felt it a shame not to share their artefacts and the beauty of the property. And they also wanted to be able to pay for the lawn mowing guy.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Bay of Islands Holiday Park

6. Bay of Islands Holiday Park

100%
(1)
Haruru · 124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bay of Islands Holiday Park, is a 3.1 hectare Holiday Park providing a wide array of accommodation and camping facilities. Centrally located between Paihia and Kerikeri the park is well positioned for exploring all the Bay of islands has to offer. Featuring plenty of trees for shade and the Waitangi river running along one boundary creating a relaxing family fun atmosphere.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
NZ$51
 / night
Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

7. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

86%
(11)
Arahura Valley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
NZ$79
 / night
Hideaway Ranch

8. Hideaway Ranch

100%
(3)
Maungaturoto, NZ · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Campfires
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

9. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
Waiotahe, BOP · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Nature's Haven

10. Nature's Haven

Tuakau · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$37
 / night
Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

11. Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

100%
(4)
Taupō · 336 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Just minutes from Taupō’s lakefront and town centre, Lake Taupō Holiday Resort blends the freedom of camping with the comfort of a family-friendly resort. Powered and unpowered sites are set across spacious grounds. For those wanting a touch of luxury, the Ensuite Powered Sites offer your own private bathroom alongside power and water — perfect for an extra-comfortable stay. What truly sets this park apart is its resort-style atmosphere. The lagoon-style thermal pools create a central hub for relaxing or socializing, complete with a swim-up bar and café, warm water year-round and plenty of space for families to splash and unwind. Around the park, you’ll find modern communal kitchens and bathrooms, convenient laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and multiple BBQ areas for relaxed evening dinners. Families will love the sense of play built into the resort. Jumping pillows, go-karts, playgrounds and wide-open spaces make it easy for kids to burn off energy, while adult travellers can enjoy the tennis courts or simply soak in the thermal pools after a day exploring Taupō’s lakeside walks, geothermal attractions and scenic lookouts.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from 
NZ$116
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

12. Dominic E.’s Land

100%
(4)
Waipapa, NZ · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Dream Weavers Farm

13. Dream Weavers Farm

100%
(1)
Kawakawa · 4 sites
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.
Pets
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Lekker Stay Camping Sites

14. Lekker Stay Camping Sites

100%
(1)
Parua Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come stay off-grid… but not too much! Perfect for self-contained campervans, with a power point and Wi-Fi access. There is even a bathroom available with a shower and toilet. Just a 2-minute drive from shops and close to popular beaches and fishing spots. Enjoy views of Mount Manaia for lovely, peaceful sundowners, and wake up to the sounds of chickens, a wide variety of birds, and maybe even a few bunnies hopping around.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$61
 / night

Ask a Kiwi what defines New Zealand (Aotearoa), and you'll get markedly different answers depending on where they hail from—even if they only grew up hours apart. That may be because New Zealand crams diverse landscapes and experiences into its 268,021 square kilometres. You can sleep at Māori maraes, park your campervan at the foot of active volcanoes, unroll your sleeping bag metres from the sea or deep in the rainforest, or pitch a tent at the foot of snow-capped mountains. Kiwis love road trips thanks to an extensive network of frontcountry, backcountry, and even urban camping areas. Freedom camping in New Zealand is also widespread, with free camping sites sometimes even equipped with flush toilets and hot showers. Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites and holiday parks can be found in even the most remote corners of the country, while local hosts are among the most welcoming you’ll find anywhere in the world.

96% (100) 19 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in New Zealand

River Bends

1. River Bends

98%
(92)
Te Kuiti · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Off-grid with access to nature

2. Off-grid with access to nature

96%
(13)
Tauranga · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Our place is a private location on the busy SH 29. It's a spot for a few guests that are preferably self-contained (we are living off grid). We do have water on the land and 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 busy State Highway 29, it's easily accessible, and we have gravel and dirt roads through the property. Please note that road sounds are unavoidable. The property is next to a rain forest and 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). You're welcome to stay here if you're travelling in a self-contained or non-self-contained vehicle. We are also happy to host you in a tent. You're welcome to use a composting toilet and warm shower. The price is for 1 vehicle/ tent and 2 people. We also offer Stand-up Paddles to hire and you can book walking tours on the property as well. We do not allow fires on our property. We speak German and English. We also have a very friendly dog and she will want to say "hi" to you. Latest check-in: 9 pm
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
NZ$43
 / night
Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

3. Hampshire Holidays Parks Arrowtown

100%
(11)
Arrowtown · 171 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stay just a minutes’ walk from Arrowtown’s charming main street, where heritage buildings, boutique eateries, and leafy lanes create one of New Zealand’s most atmospheric small towns. Hampshire Holiday Parks – Arrowtown offers powered and unpowered sites in a peaceful, tree-lined setting with mountain views. Our spacious, level sites make accessing your vehicle easy, and you’ll find free Wi-Fi across the park, laundry, and BBQ/kitchen facilities all on-site. Kids will love the outdoor playground, and active travellers can enjoy the tennis court or hop onto nearby walking and cycling trails. A wide selection of cabins is also available for those wanting more than camping. Located just a short stroll from Arrowtown’s historic river, boutique shops and cafés, and only a short drive to Queenstown and local skifields, the park offers the perfect mix of relaxed village charm and access to big-weekend adventure.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$36
 / night
Tapapa Station

4. Tapapa Station

Tirau · 1 site · Tent, RV
Small lifestyle block conveniently located on the outskirts of Tirau. Camping is available for self-contained caravans, tents, horse trucks and motorhomes. Access to water is available. Unfortunately, can’t accommodate dogs but guests are welcome to bring their horses for an additional $10 per horse. Please bring standards and tapes as you will be camping in the same paddock as your equine friends. Horse friendly hay can be purchased onsite. The famous Blue Springs are close by and there are lovely hiking, walking and biking treks in the area. A 35 minute drive will take you to Cambridge and Rotorua. Matamata is a 20 minute commute and the beautiful Kaimai ranges are not too far away either- lots to see and do around here. Please note: check in time can be flexible so just enquire to finalise if you would like to check in before 4pm.
Water hookup
Potable water
from 
NZ$49
 / night
Terako Downs POP

5. Terako Downs POP

100%
(1)
Waiau · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Creatives at heart, Debbie and Frits both love the arts. They love listening to music, collecting vintage pieces (both clothing and artefacts that you can view in their museum!) & hosting dinner parties and events. Their idea for opening Terako Downs was born from their love of sharing. Coming out of owning a business in Dunedin, they felt it a shame not to share their artefacts and the beauty of the property. And they also wanted to be able to pay for the lawn mowing guy.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Bay of Islands Holiday Park

6. Bay of Islands Holiday Park

100%
(1)
Haruru · 124 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Bay of Islands Holiday Park, is a 3.1 hectare Holiday Park providing a wide array of accommodation and camping facilities. Centrally located between Paihia and Kerikeri the park is well positioned for exploring all the Bay of islands has to offer. Featuring plenty of trees for shade and the Waitangi river running along one boundary creating a relaxing family fun atmosphere.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
NZ$51
 / night
Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

7. Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

86%
(11)
Arahura Valley · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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!
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
NZ$79
 / night
Hideaway Ranch

8. Hideaway Ranch

100%
(3)
Maungaturoto, NZ · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
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
Campfires
from 
NZ$25
 / night
Beach Front Paradise

9. Beach Front Paradise

100%
(1)
Waiotahe, BOP · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Beautiful beach front, with lots to do or a great spot to relax in nature. White Island and Whale island located off shore is definitely a site to sea on the golden hour sunset. Motu trail bike track directly infront of property so if you love to bike this is perfect for you. Surfing and swimming is very popular, or long walks along the beach! Fishing is a must! So bring your gear along. An untouched slice of paradise that you can’t bet, fresh sea breeze and fresh air! Please message before booking and if you have any questions just txt or email. Thanks 0277220509 Price -$25 for two people (1 vehicle) per night -Extra people $10per person, $5 per child
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Nature's Haven

10. Nature's Haven

Tuakau · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Potable water
from 
NZ$37
 / night
Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

11. Lake Taupo Holiday Resort

100%
(4)
Taupō · 336 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Just minutes from Taupō’s lakefront and town centre, Lake Taupō Holiday Resort blends the freedom of camping with the comfort of a family-friendly resort. Powered and unpowered sites are set across spacious grounds. For those wanting a touch of luxury, the Ensuite Powered Sites offer your own private bathroom alongside power and water — perfect for an extra-comfortable stay. What truly sets this park apart is its resort-style atmosphere. The lagoon-style thermal pools create a central hub for relaxing or socializing, complete with a swim-up bar and café, warm water year-round and plenty of space for families to splash and unwind. Around the park, you’ll find modern communal kitchens and bathrooms, convenient laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and multiple BBQ areas for relaxed evening dinners. Families will love the sense of play built into the resort. Jumping pillows, go-karts, playgrounds and wide-open spaces make it easy for kids to burn off energy, while adult travellers can enjoy the tennis courts or simply soak in the thermal pools after a day exploring Taupō’s lakeside walks, geothermal attractions and scenic lookouts.
Toilets
Showers
Full hookups
from 
NZ$116
 / night
Dominic E.’s Land

12. Dominic E.’s Land

100%
(4)
Waipapa, NZ · 1 site · Tent, RV
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
Dream Weavers Farm

13. Dream Weavers Farm

100%
(1)
Kawakawa · 4 sites
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.
Pets
from 
NZ$31
 / night
Lekker Stay Camping Sites

14. Lekker Stay Camping Sites

100%
(1)
Parua Bay · 1 site · Tent, RV
Come stay off-grid… but not too much! Perfect for self-contained campervans, with a power point and Wi-Fi access. There is even a bathroom available with a shower and toilet. Just a 2-minute drive from shops and close to popular beaches and fishing spots. Enjoy views of Mount Manaia for lovely, peaceful sundowners, and wake up to the sounds of chickens, a wide variety of birds, and maybe even a few bunnies hopping around.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
NZ$61
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Value Prop
Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek caravan sites in New Zealand guide

Where to go

Northland (North Island)

This stretch of land north of Auckland is the birthplace of both Māoridom and modern New Zealand. Campsites in the Bay of Islands offer modern amenities and services, while seaside sites in the relatively unpopulated Far North region do justice to the phrase "winterless north."

Waikato (North Island)

Just south of Auckland, Waikato may be known for its cows, but this is also where you'll find some of the most dynamic camping in the region, including riverbanks and caves lit up at night with glowworms, surf beaches, and the bays and inlets of the Coromandel.

Bay of Plenty & Hawke's Bay (North Island)

Kiwifruits, wineries, and seafood are just part of what makes these two regions so plentiful. In addition to beachfront camping sites, you'll also find farm stays and further inland, camping among the misty mountain peaks of Te Urewera or beside the steaming geysers at Rotorua.

Ruapehu (North Island)

Within the volcanic heart of the North Island, the Ruapehu region also marks the start Whanganui River, with its headwaters in Tongariro National Park. Lava flows have defined this landscape, yet you can also park your motorhome among lush green rainforest.

Tasman/Nelson & Marlborough (South Island)

After a ferry ride from Wellington, you'll arrive to the northern end of the South Island, where these Tasman and Marlborough are known for their gold-hued beaches (especially in the aptly named Golden Bay and Abel Tasman National Park), plus kayaking, wineries, endless coastline, and native bush.

West Coast (South Island)

New Zealand's West Coast is known for being both wild and wet. It lives up to both descriptions, but it isn't all rain and gloom. Here, you'll find glaciers that nearly touch the sea, native rainforest, windswept beaches, and some of the country's most remote campsites.

Canterbury (South Island)

From the turquoise lakes of Mackenzie Country and the snow-capped peaks of Arthur's Pass to the braided rivers that cross the plains, Canterbury is as big as it is diverse. Want to camp beachside, riverside, oceanside, mountainside, lakeside, or even cityside in Christchurch? Find it all in Canterbury.

Otago (South Island)

Otago's urban centre of Queenstown is known for hustle and bustle, but it's easy to find yourself totally immersed in wilderness after just a short drive. With massive lakes, rushing rivers, and high mountain peaks, there's no shortage of adventure or camping grounds in the country's adrenaline capital.

Fiordland & Stewart Island (South Island)

Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's most remote regions—yet it's also one of the most visited. The postcard-perfect Milford Sound is what lures many here, but for those who have time to camp for a few nights, it offers unparalleled wilderness opportunities starting from Te Anau.

Popular New Zealand holidays