Set beside one of Central Otago’s most unusual landscapes, Blue Lake at St Bathans offers a camping experience that feels more like stepping into a surreal postcard than a traditional campground. The former gold mining pit, now filled with striking turquoise water, creates an unforgettable visual setting that draws campervan and motorhome travellers from across the South Island. Despite the small size of the nearby town, the lake itself delivers big impact and makes this stop stand out on any Otago road trip.

The camping area is positioned close to the lake and is laid out in a simple and open format. Campervans and motorhomes can park with space to enjoy the surrounding scenery and set up basic outdoor living areas. As a council managed site, facilities are practical and focused on essential needs rather than high end comfort. This style of camping suits travellers who are comfortable with straightforward amenities and prefer location and atmosphere over luxury services.

The lake is the main attraction and offers a unique environment for swimming and photography. The vivid blue colour of the water, created by mineral rich mining runoff, contrasts sharply with the dry Central Otago hills and historic mining remains nearby. Walking around the lake provides constantly changing viewpoints and photo opportunities, while the wider St Bathans area offers heritage buildings and quiet back roads that reflect the region’s gold mining past.

For campervan travellers, Blue Lake works well as both an overnight stop and a short stay destination. Its position makes it a natural break point between Alexandra, Naseby and the Maniototo area. Arriving during daylight hours is recommended so visitors can safely position vehicles and fully appreciate the colour of the lake, which is most vibrant under direct sunlight. Bringing food and supplies with you is advised, as the town itself offers very limited services.

Rather than being just another place to park for the night, Blue Lake provides a distinctive travel moment that many visitors remember long after leaving Otago. For South Island campervan travellers who enjoy unique scenery and visually striking locations, this campsite adds character and contrast to any Central Otago journey.