Best Taupo Campsites

This selection covers diverse camping options across the Lake Taupo region, from the thermal waters of DeBretts Spa Resort to remote DOC sites in Pureora Forest Park. It includes freedom camping spots at Five Mile Bay and Whakaipō Bay for self-contained vehicles, alongside family-oriented holiday parks with swimming pools and boat ramps. Locations range from free riverside sites at Hipapatua to established grounds at Motutere Bay positioned directly on the lake's eastern edge.

Hipapatua/Reid's Farm Campsite

Riverside site on the Waikato River near Huka Falls. Allows tents and dogs with no overnight fees.

Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort

Thermal resort featuring natural hot springs, hydro-slides, and a day spa. Includes a sanitary dump station and full holiday park facilities.

Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park

Centrally located park with a swimming pool, wireless internet, and full amenities for tents and caravans.

Motutere Bay Holiday Park

Lakefront camping on the eastern shore with an on-site boat ramp, power supply, and full utility hookups.

Whakaipō Bay Recreation Reserve

Scenic reserve at the start of the W2K mountain bike trail. Offers free lakeside camping for self-contained vehicles with public toilets available.

Five Mile Bay Freedom Campsite

Lakeside freedom camping area on the shores of Lake Taupo, designated for self-contained vehicles only.

Aratiatia Freedom Camping

Freedom camping site located near the Aratiatia Rapids and the Waikato River dam release viewpoint. Includes wheelchair-accessible toilets.

Great Lake Taupo Holiday Park

Large holiday park featuring sheltered sites and a sanitary dump station, situated between Taupo town and Acacia Bay.

Caravan Site

Holiday park located near the Motuoapa Marina at the southern end of the lake, accommodating both tents and caravans.

Whakamaru reserve

Riverside reserve on Lake Whakamaru offering toilets, showers, and proximity to the Waikato River Trails.

Free camping (even for tents)

Free camping area near Mangakino that permits tents and provides basic shower and drinking water facilities.

Waikoko Campsite

Basic DOC campsite featuring latrines, a shelter, and designated areas where open fires are permitted.

Hinemaiaia Reserve Carpark (DOC)

DOC-managed carpark area suitable for self-contained vehicles, located near the Hinemaiaia River.

Kakaho Campsite

DOC site in Pureora Forest Park with stream access, latrines, and nearby forest walking tracks. Wheelchair accessible.