Freedom Camping Otago

In Otago, adventure awaits around every corner! From towering peaks to tranquil lakeshores, here, the rugged beauty of New Zealand’s South Island unfolds in all its glory. There are also some great freedom camping spots here, offering the perfect solution for those craving an authentic outdoor experience without spending a fortune in the process.

At Travellers Autobarn, you can consider us your personal travel guide to the world of freedom camping in Otago, and below, we’ll be revealing the best spots to park your campervan amidst the stunning landscapes. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking thrills or a nature-lover yearning for peace and quiet, these Otago freedom camping spots cater to all tastes and preferences.

Are you ready? Let’s start exploring!

Otago Freedom Camping Spots

1. St Bathans Campsite
2. Lindis Pass Historic Hotel Campsite
3. Bendigo Camping Area
4. Jacksons Inlet
5. Lowburn Camping Area
6. Champagne Gully

Before we start looking at these freedom camping spots, it’s important to note that these sites are remote, and some have extremely limited amenities. With this in mind, it’s best to visit them by campervan. Contact Travellers Autobarn today about hiring a campervan, and we’ll pair you with one that perfectly matches your needs.

St Bathans Campsite

St Bathans, Otago

Operating on a first-come-first-served basis, St Bathans Campsite has nine non-powered sites that are suitable for campervans, camper trailers, and 4WDs. You’ll also find some basic facilities here, including non-flush toilets and non-drinking water, but you may be more comfortable staying here in a self-contained vehicle if you’re new to freedom camping.

This spot is dog friendly, and the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities for you and your furry friend to explore, including walking trails that lead straight to the Blue Lake Recreational Reserve. You’re also a short walk away from St Bathans town, where you’ll find restaurants and bars – ideal if you feel like treating yourself to a meal while surrounded by rugged mountains and rolling hills.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Non-Flush Toilets
• Non-Drinking Water

Lindis Pass Historic Hotel Campsite

Lindis Valley, Otago

The Lindis Pass Historic Hotel Campsite is one of the most unique and interesting places you can freedom camp in Otago, and here you’ll find the actual remains of the hotel to explore. There are 16 non-powered sites here, and you don’t need to book, but we do recommend getting here early – thanks to its uniqueness, this is quite a popular spot.

You’ll find some good amenities here, including non-flush toilets, stream water, and a sheltered cooking area. Its location along the Lindis River also offers some incredible views, as well as a place for swimming, fishing, or simply unwinding in the breeze, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Non-Flush Toilets
• Sheltered Cooking Area
• Stream Water

Bendigo Camping Area

Bendigo, Central Otago District

At Bendigo Camping Area, you’ll find yourself spending the night along the lakeshore, which offers some incredible sunset views as well as a place to spot wildlife, swim, fish, and enjoy water sports. Put simply, this freedom camping spot has something for everyone to enjoy, including several walking tracks.

This site is suitable for self-contained and non-self-contained vehicles, as well as tents, so it’s a great choice if you feel like breaking free from your campervan for an evening and getting back to basics. There are also toilet facilities here, but you are permitted from lighting fires, so make sure you wrap up warm as temperatures can dip quite low, even during the summer months. You’re only allowed to camp here for up to three nights in each calendar month, too, so make sure you follow these rules to allow others the opportunity to enjoy freedom camping here.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets

Jacksons Inlet Camping Area

Jacksons Inlet, Central Otago District

Another lakeside freedom camping spot, Jackson Inlet Camping Area offers a picturesque place for adventurers in self-contained vehicles to spend the day exploring walking trails and spotting wildlife, and a night underneath starry skies. Naturally, its lakeside location offers the opportunity for water sports, swimming, and fishing, too.

In terms of amenities, things are pretty basic, but you do have access to toilets. However, fires are not allowed as you are on Crown property, and you’re also only limited to a one-night stay per calendar month. With this in mind, we recommend getting here as early as possible, not only to secure a space but to make the most of the area before you have to move on the next day.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets

Lowburn Camping Area

Lowburn, Central Otago District

Located along the shores of Lowburn Harbour, Lowburn Camping Area provides some of the most beautiful views in the Central Otago District, as well as some excellent opportunities to explore the local flora. This spot is also well-known for its wildlife and is particularly popular for birdwatching.

As with Bendigo Camping Area, you’re allowed to camp at Lowburn Camping Area for up to three nights per calendar month, and there are toilets here for your convenience. However, this site is only suitable for self-contained vehicles, and tent camping isn’t allowed, so keep this in mind before pulling up here.

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets

Champagne Gully Camping Area

Champagne Gully, Central Otago District

Suitable for both self-contained vehicles and non-self-contained vehicles, as well as tent camping, Champagne Gully allows a one-night stay along the shores of the Clutha River. This presents the perfect opportunity to take a chill-out day on your road trip and enjoy fishing, swimming, or relaxing by the river and letting the sounds of nature wash over you.

Like most freedom camping sites in the Central Otago District, you aren’t allowed to start fires here, but there are on-site toilets that are free to use. There are also recycling bins here – but you are encouraged to take your rubbish with you when you leave – as well as a picnic table that provides an idyllic setting to watch the sun go down while you enjoy an evening drink!

FEATURED AMENITIES

• Toilets
• Rubbish Bins
• Picnic Tables

Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil shores of its lakes or the rugged beauty of its backcountry, Otago has something for everyone seeking adventure off the beaten path. However, to explore the wilderness in all its glory and to keep things as easy as possible, it’s essential that you hire a campervan for your Otago road trip.

Speak with the team of campervan experts at Travellers Autobarn, and we’ll listen to your needs to make sure you’re paired with the perfect campervan. Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure, a romantic getaway for two, or a family trip, we have something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch today, and you’ll be one step closer to your freedom camping adventure!

Freedom Camping in New Zealand – Important Information

There’s no doubt that freedom camping is one of the best ways to see everything New Zealand offers. However, there are some important things to note before you head out on your adventures:

1. Freedom camping sites are usually only suitable for self contained vehicles, and the hire price of these can be between 10%-40% more expensive than non self contained vehicles. So, this is something you’ll need to factor into your budget.
2. While freedom camping sites offer beautiful views in remote locations, their amenities are normally very limited. Also, even during the summer, night temperatures can fall as low as 0°C.
3. Most freedom camping sites don’t have a booking system, and, as such, spaces are offered on a first-come-first-served basis. This means finding a spot can be quite difficult.
4. Camping areas that are certified DOC (Department of Conservation) allow you to extend your stay for up to 30 nights as long as you hold a DOC Campsite Pass. These are massively useful for frequent freedom campers and cost as little as $95 per person.