About the campsite:

Set on the shores of one of the South Island’s most beautiful alpine lakes, The Camp at Lake Hāwea is a quintessential Kiwi camping destination where spectacular mountain scenery, spacious grassy grounds and a relaxed outdoor atmosphere come together. Formerly known as Lake Hāwea Holiday Park, this much-loved campground has been welcoming campers, travellers and adventurers since 1971. Its appeal lies in the simple pleasures of outdoor living: waking up beside the lake, spending the day exploring the surrounding landscapes and gathering with fellow travellers as the sun sets behind the mountains.

The campground occupies an expansive lakeside setting, with established trees, open lawns and a mix of sunny and sheltered areas. The scenery is a real highlight, with the deep blue waters of Lake Hāwea stretching towards the rugged mountains of the Southern Alps. Whether you settle into a lakeside spot, find a shady patch beneath the trees or enjoy the open grassy areas, there is a wonderful sense of space and connection with the surrounding landscape.

A fantastic spot for campervans and tents

For campervan and motorhome travellers, The Camp offers powered sites with a choice of stunning lake views or more private positions set a little further back from the shoreline. Tent campers have the freedom to choose their own unpowered camping spot, whether they prefer to be near the water, tucked into the woodland, under the shade or out in the sunshine. The flexible layout gives the campground a relaxed, informal feel, with room to settle in and make yourself at home.

The setting is particularly appealing for travellers who enjoy spending time outside rather than simply using a campsite as somewhere to sleep. Spread out on the grass with a book, enjoy breakfast overlooking the water or take a leisurely stroll around the grounds. With the lake and mountains providing a constantly changing backdrop, even a quiet day at the campground feels like part of the holiday.

Lakeside relaxation and the outdoor fireplace

One of the standout features of The Camp is its large outdoor fireplace on the lakefront. Positioned beside the water, it creates a natural gathering place where guests can sit back, enjoy the views and share stories after a day exploring Central Otago. On a clear evening, the surrounding mountains, changing light and still waters make a beautiful setting for an outdoor get-together.

The fireplace is available for guest use, but you need to supply your own firewood or forage for suitable fallen wood where permitted. Always check with the campground team before lighting the fire, as management approval is required. The fireplace cannot be used during fire-ban periods, and children must be supervised at all times. Campers cannot simply light their own fires elsewhere around the grounds, so this designated lakeside fireplace is a particularly special feature when conditions allow.

Even without a fire, the lakefront is a lovely place to spend time. Pull up a chair, settle into one of the outdoor beanbags when available, or enjoy a picnic at the tables while taking in the expansive views. It is an easy place to lose track of time, whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends or as a family.

Lake activities right on your doorstep

With Lake Hāwea immediately alongside the campground, there is plenty to enjoy without needing to drive anywhere. Take a refreshing dip in the clear alpine water during the warmer months, spend time fishing, or bring a kayak or paddleboard to explore the shoreline. Boating is another popular option, with a boat ramp just outside the campground. A fee applies to use the ramp, so check the current arrangements before launching.

The lake offers a wonderful contrast to the busier tourist centres nearby. Its expansive waters, rugged mountain backdrop and peaceful bays create a sense of space that makes it easy to slow down. Whether you’re an active outdoor enthusiast or simply want somewhere scenic to relax between road-trip stops, the lakeside location is a major drawcard.

More than just a campground

Although the camping grounds are a highlight, The Camp offers a variety of accommodation options for travellers seeking something different. Traditional cabins provide a simple, private sleeping space with access to communal facilities, while the distinctive Lakeside Cabin sits right at the water’s edge and is particularly popular with couples.

For a more comfortable outdoor experience, the campground also has glamping accommodation, including Safari, Denver and Bell tents. These combine the atmosphere of camping with additional comforts, and several enjoy beautiful lake and mountain views. Self-contained cottages and holiday homes provide further options for families, couples and groups wanting more space and independence.

This variety makes The Camp a versatile destination for mixed groups, where some travellers can stay in a campervan or tent while others enjoy a roof over their heads. Accommodation availability, facilities and seasonal operating dates vary, so it’s worth checking the official website when planning your stay.

Facilities for a comfortable stay

The Camp embraces a simple, environmentally conscious approach while providing the essentials needed for a comfortable camping holiday. Shared kitchens include stovetops, ovens, microwaves, fridges and freezers, making it easy to prepare meals. Outdoor BBQs with gas supplied are also available near the kitchen areas.

Bathroom facilities include toilets, changing areas and showers. The campground has a laundry with coin-operated washing machines and dryers, plus Wi-Fi for guests. Complimentary internet access is limited, and connectivity can be affected by the surrounding trees, mountains and weather, so don’t expect city-level speeds.

Campervan and motorhome travellers can also make use of the dump station, while recycling facilities help guests dispose of waste responsibly. Gas bottle swaps are available through the office, and the team can provide local information, practical assistance and advice on activities in the area.

Food, coffee and a friendly summer atmosphere

During the warmer months, The Camp Food Truck & Bar adds another reason to linger. Depending on the season and operating schedule, visitors can enjoy barista-made coffee, casual food, wood-fired pizzas and local craft beer. Live music and social gatherings bring an extra sense of community to the lakefront, creating the sort of relaxed atmosphere that makes a camping holiday memorable.

The food truck is seasonal, with opening days and hours subject to change, so check the official website or ask at reception during your visit. If you prefer to cook for yourself, the shared kitchens and BBQ areas make it easy to enjoy a meal back at your site.

A great base for exploring Wānaka and Central Otago

The Camp is ideally positioned for discovering the wider Lake Hāwea and Wānaka region. The township of Wānaka is around 15 minutes away by car, offering cafés, restaurants, shops, supermarkets and access to a wide range of outdoor adventures.

Closer to the campground, you can explore local walking and cycling routes, spend time by the water or head out for a day of fishing and boating. The surrounding mountains provide opportunities for hiking and scenic exploration, while the Crown Range route towards Queenstown offers a spectacular drive for those continuing their South Island road trip. Alternatively, travel north along the Haast Pass road to discover waterfalls, rainforest and the wild landscapes leading towards the West Coast.

The campground team can also offer local tips and information about fishing spots, walking tracks and nearby activities, helping you make the most of your stay.

A camping experience with sustainability at its heart

The Camp has earned Qualmark Gold Sustainable Tourism Business accreditation, reflecting its commitment to responsible tourism and caring for the environment. Recycling and waste management are encouraged throughout the grounds, and the campground’s emphasis on simple outdoor experiences allows the natural surroundings to take centre stage.

For travellers who value a relaxed, nature-focused stay, this combination of lakeside scenery, practical facilities and environmental awareness is part of what makes The Camp special.

Why stay at The Camp?

Whether you’re touring the South Island in a campervan, pitching a tent for a few nights or looking for a scenic base close to Wānaka, The Camp offers a memorable lakeside experience. Its spacious grounds, direct access to Lake Hāwea, mountain views and welcoming outdoor atmosphere make it an excellent place to pause along your journey.

Add in the chance to enjoy a lakeside fire when conditions permit, swim in the clear water, share a meal outdoors or simply sit back and watch the light change across the mountains, and it’s easy to understand the enduring appeal of this classic Kiwi camping destination.

Location: 1208 Haast Pass–Makarora Road, Lake Hāwea, Otago.

Accommodation: Powered and unpowered camping sites, cabins, lakeside cabin, glamping tents, cottages and holiday homes.

Facilities: Shared kitchens, bathrooms and showers, laundry, Wi-Fi, outdoor BBQs, dump station, recycling, gas bottle exchange and a designated lakeside fireplace.

Best for: Campervan and motorhome travellers, tent campers, couples, families, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone wanting a scenic lakeside base near Wānaka.

Good to know: Firewood is not supplied. Bring your own or collect suitable fallen wood where permitted, and always check with the site managers before using the outdoor fireplace. Fires are prohibited during fire-ban periods.