The traditional and quintessential Kiwi camping holiday experience is still a welcome feature in Central Otago.
Whatever type of camping holiday you enjoy – you will be welcomed in Central Otago. In and around urban areas campers enjoy a wide choice of fully serviced camping grounds.
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1. Are you self-contained?
A self-contained vehicle must meet the national Caravan Self Containment Certification standard. You’ll need to be able to live in it for 3 days without getting more water or dumping waste. It must have:
a toilet
fresh water storage
waste water storage, and
a rubbish bin with a lid.
A plumber or gasfitter needs to check if your vehicle meets the requirements. If it passes they will give you a warrant and sticker certification to display on the front of your vehicle and the rear of your vehicle.Still not sure, ask?
If you’re still not sure where you can camp, or require assistance with finding a camping ground, then please contact our i-SITES on 03 262 7999 or via visitorcentre@codc.govt.nz
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2. Designated Sites
There are four designated camping sites around Lake Dunstan and one at Pinders Pond near Roxburgh. These sites have minimal facilities and are available for short term stays only. Rules and length of stay are monitored and enforced.
Bendigo
3 night maximum stay
This site is available for short term stays only. Site rules and length of stay are monitored and enforced.Lowburn
3 night maximum stay
Certified Self Contained Vehicles only
This site is available for short term stays only. Site rules and length of stay are monitored and enforced.Champagne Gully
1 night maximum stay
This site is available for short term stays only. Site rules and length of stay are monitored and enforced.Jacksons Inlet
1 night maximum stay
Certified self contained vehicles only
This site is available for short term stays only. Site rules and length of stay are monitored and enforced.Pinders Pond (Roxburgh)
3 night maximum stay
This site is available for short term stays only. Site rules and length of stay are monitored and enforced. -
3. Responsible Camping Guidelines
Central Otago Responsible Camping Guidelines
Please follow these guidelines to ensure an enjoyable camping experience for all:
- Only camp in an official campground or an area designated for camping - you must follow all site rules.
- Do not camp in any urban areas or townships.
- Do not light fires.
- Use the facilities provided (toilets and rubbish bins).
- Do not wash dishes, clothes or yourself in any river or lake.
- Remove all rubbish and recycling. (Please dispose of at a Transfer Station or a Recycling Centre)
- Respect and enjoy our environment.
- Be considerate of all users.
- Do not block access to any track, road or waterway.For further information on Responsible Camping:
Tiaki New Zealand
camping.org.nz - Responsible and Safe Camping Guidelines

Camping Grounds & Holiday Parks
Generations of families and friends come every year to enjoy their traditional camping holidays in our holiday parks and campgrounds.
OUR REGIONAL VALUES
Make a Difference
Be at the cutting edge, setting directions and accepting challenges.
Respecting Others
Take the time to listen and understand other people’s opinions and cultural differences.
Embracing Diversity
Be open to new ideas, open to exploring the possibilities and appreciate the strengths and talents each person brings.
Adding Value
Always ask ourselves is there a better way – one that achieves a premium status, quality experience or interaction.
Having Integrity
Seek to be open and honest in all our interactions.
Learning from the past
Choose to learn from past experiences with the future generations in mind.
Making a sustainable difference
Make decisions with the community in mind and in harmony with the natural environment so we can help create the kind of place we can be proud of.
Protecting our rich heritage
Protect and celebrate our rich heritage in landscapes, architecture, flora, fauna and cultural heritage.
Meeting our obligations
Do the right thing by our region and check what legal requirements need to be met before you get started.