The best campgrounds in New Zealand with swimming

In New Zealand, camping spots with swimming access aren’t hard to find—you’ll pick from 16 options where a cool dip is never far from your tent or caravan. Picture rivers winding past your site and swimming holes hidden under native bush. Sites like Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika (8 reviews) and Sommerfeldt Farm (5 reviews) get high marks from campers—expect easy access to water, wildlife-watching, and hiking trails. You’ll find everything from hot showers to spots where you can bring your dog or light a campfire. Average price hovers around $25 a night, but you can snag a site for as low as $20. If you want practical advice, make sure to pack for changeable weather and check if your favourite site allows pets or has a shower on site. Don’t forget: New Zealand’s swimming spots can be brisk, but nothing beats a post-hike plunge.

98% (21)

Top-rated campgrounds

In New Zealand, camping spots with swimming access aren’t hard to find—you’ll pick from 16 options where a cool dip is never far from your tent or caravan. Picture rivers winding past your site and swimming holes hidden under native bush. Sites like Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika (8 reviews) and Sommerfeldt Farm (5 reviews) get high marks from campers—expect easy access to water, wildlife-watching, and hiking trails. You’ll find everything from hot showers to spots where you can bring your dog or light a campfire. Average price hovers around $25 a night, but you can snag a site for as low as $20. If you want practical advice, make sure to pack for changeable weather and check if your favourite site allows pets or has a shower on site. Don’t forget: New Zealand’s swimming spots can be brisk, but nothing beats a post-hike plunge.

98% (21)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Beach Front Paradise

100%

(1)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Waiotahe, BOP

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

2. Manaia Valley Farm

100%

(2)

1 site · Tent, RV · Whangarei

Hi Hipcampers! Manaia Valley Farm is nestled below the stunning Mt Manaia, Whangarei Heads. Our 20 acres is just 600m from Ocean Beach, perfect for surfing and swimming. If you prefer a gentle float in calm waters, Taurikura beach is just a 5 min drive away. There are heaps of fantastic hikes in the vicinity if that's your thing. We have space for campervans/caravans/tenters. And we have a flush toilet, and hot outdoor shower available. Come enjoy some of the most stunning sunsets Northland has to offer!

3. 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!

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. Sommerfeldt Farm

100%

(5)

1 site · Tent, RV · Pukekohe

We are a small farm in a beautiful rural village on the outskirts of Auckland. As well as being a lovely village we are close to beaches, forests & bush walks. We are close enough to Auckland for Daytrips if you want to experience the Big Smoke and far enough away to be away from the hub Bub of city life. We are approx halfway between Auckland city and Hamilton City so a great stop off point if travelling North or South

6. Pats Place - Te Ngaere Bay

100%

(2)

1 site · Tent · Kaeo

Available is a sheltered flat grass section near a stunning beach. It is sheltered from the wind yet only a 60m stroll to the beach. Take your morning coffee or evening wine to the beach (like I do). Lot's of fun nature hikes in the area, eg Mahineapua Track, Whangaroa Harbour. Nearby is Matauri Bay reknowned for it's great surf, or Kauri Cliffs Golf Resort.

7. 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.

8. 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

9. Lekker Stay Camping Sites

1 site · Tent, RV · Parua Bay

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.

10. 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!

11. Akerama lifestyle

1 site · Lodging · Hikurangi

The property is a natural waypoint to a multitude of destinations while being close to the main highway but quiet and secluded. As a lifestyle block it has many different animals, garden and orchards. There are 3 caravans for stays with a caravan kitchen available and a shower and toilet block. We have a creek running through the property behind the caravans and a bush block of mainly Totara trees sheltering the area from the south side. The animals we currently have on site are sheep (South Suffolk), pigs (Kunikuni), chooks, ducks, Guinea pigs, cattle and a dog.

12. Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

1 site · Lodging · Karikari Peninsula, NZ

The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.

13. Down to earth NZ

1 site · Lodging · Kerikeri

You will enjoy the nature surrounding you, our friendly calves coming for cuddles, the melody of birds, having a swim in the pond, ,enjoying star filled clear dark sky, misty autumn valley views, wild flower meadow, permaculture gardens and food forest. Yoga space Deep tissue massage service Spring fed drinking water. Compost toilets Permaculture gardens Wildflower circle Swimming Lake Ancient forests Streams and Pocket gardens Cows and chickens Serene and private. Meditative spaces Hammocks The 10 acres property is located in the historical Waimate North area. Several well known restaurants and vineyards are within a few minutes drive. Local tourist attractions: Airport 7min with pickup Ngawha hot springs 25 min Kerikeri markets 10min Puketi forest 20 min Diving Bay of Islands attractions 25min (Bars, restaurants and tours) Bike riding And mountain bike park. East coast beaches 25min West coast 45min

Camper favorites in New Zealand

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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

Lekker Stay Camping Sites

1 site · Tent, RV · Parua Bay

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.

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!

Akerama lifestyle

1 site · Lodging · Hikurangi

The property is a natural waypoint to a multitude of destinations while being close to the main highway but quiet and secluded. As a lifestyle block it has many different animals, garden and orchards. There are 3 caravans for stays with a caravan kitchen available and a shower and toilet block. We have a creek running through the property behind the caravans and a bush block of mainly Totara trees sheltering the area from the south side. The animals we currently have on site are sheep (South Suffolk), pigs (Kunikuni), chooks, ducks, Guinea pigs, cattle and a dog.

Pohutukawa Cabin @ Karikari Lodge.

1 site · Lodging · Karikari Peninsula, NZ

The Pohutukawa Cabin is part of our Guest House space. The Cabin is private and self contained there are no shared facilities. The Pohutukawa Cabin is to the rear of Karikari Lodge and overlooks the beautiful and treasured Karikari Bay. You have free use of the SUP (Stand up paddle boards) and Bodyboards.

Down to earth NZ

1 site · Lodging · Kerikeri

You will enjoy the nature surrounding you, our friendly calves coming for cuddles, the melody of birds, having a swim in the pond, ,enjoying star filled clear dark sky, misty autumn valley views, wild flower meadow, permaculture gardens and food forest. Yoga space Deep tissue massage service Spring fed drinking water. Compost toilets Permaculture gardens Wildflower circle Swimming Lake Ancient forests Streams and Pocket gardens Cows and chickens Serene and private. Meditative spaces Hammocks The 10 acres property is located in the historical Waimate North area. Several well known restaurants and vineyards are within a few minutes drive. Local tourist attractions: Airport 7min with pickup Ngawha hot springs 25 min Kerikeri markets 10min Puketi forest 20 min Diving Bay of Islands attractions 25min (Bars, restaurants and tours) Bike riding And mountain bike park. East coast beaches 25min West coast 45min

Stories from the community

R

Rose

June 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sommerfeldt Farm

Awesome stay! The farm is beautiful and it was delightful to be greeted by horses and a pig upon our arrival. The location is so quiet and peaceful and close to a lovely walk through Henry's Reserve. Great first camping trip for our dog.

K

Karina

April 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Sommerfeldt Farm

Ideal stop over as we left Auckland airport late due to delayed flight. Easy to find. Quiet over night so peaceful sleep. We were up and gone early but saw the sunrise over the paddocks and sheep.

D

Daniel

April 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Manaia Valley Farm

Awesome place to stay, close to the beach & the hosts are great!

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.

B

Braam

January 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Beach Front Paradise

Camp site was easy to find. To have running water at the camp was a real bonus. Lovely tranquil setting. Had a good relaxing time. And close to the beach with an awesome view. Best hosts ever. Will definitely visit again.

Take in the views from the covered kitchen area.

S

Savannah

December 2024

5 m Class B

Group trip

1 night at Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

What a great spot! No fuss with checking in, details for entry are available upon confirmation, easy access to an awesome spot. Toilet, shower, kitchen area & water. Seating area, campfire pit, etc. && the sweetest dogs stopped by for a visit, plenty of other farm animals: peacocks, chickens, cows, pigs, etc We wish we could have stayed longer. Thank you for the campsite!

B

Bryce

December 2024

4 m Class B

1 night at Blue Spur Farmstay Hokitika

Was definitely the most unique stay of our 2 weeks+ trip. Absolutely loved the kitchen area which was made entirely of recycled materials. Exploring the farm was itself an attraction, we were even approached by three very friendly and talkative pigs, as well as two very excitable dogs. The spot was also easily accessible. Definitely recommend to anyone visiting Hokitika wanting a nice little country getaway.