Best Camp Spots in Taupō

Camping around Taupō is about more than finding a place to park the van or pitch a tent — it’s about the experiences that come with it. Imagine waking to the sight of mist rolling across the lake, soaking in steaming hot pools after a day of adventure or cooking dinner under a sky full of stars. Taupō’s campgrounds are as varied as the travellers who visit — from resort-style parks packed with pools and family fun, to quiet bays where the loudest sound is the lap of the water, to free riverside reserves alive with the buzz of fellow campers.

No matter your style — whether you’re a family needing facilities, a couple chasing lakefront sunsets or a backpacker looking for a budget-friendly stopover — you’ll find a spot here that feels just right. These are some of the places we think are worth rolling into when you make Taupō part of your journey.

Taupō DeBretts Spa Resort

One of the most popular stays in Taupō, DeBretts combines camping with relaxation. There are powered and non-powered sites, modern facilities and full access to the famous hot pools right next door. Families love it here for the slides and playgrounds, while couples can sneak away into the private spa pools or book a treatment.

• Address: 76 Napier–Taupō Road, Taupō 3330
• Features: Powered & non-powered sites, cabins, mineral hot pools, playground, hydro-slides, spa & wellness centre, café, BBQs, laundry, Wi-Fi.
• Local Tip: Book ahead in peak summer — it’s one of the busiest spots in town.

Motutere Bay Top 10 Holiday Park

Though technically outside Taupō township, this TOP 10 park sits right on the lakefront and offers some of the best views you’ll find. It’s quieter than the in-town options and has direct access to swimming, kayaking, and lakeside walks.

⚠️ Reality check: Because it sits right on State Highway 1, it can get noisy at times and crossing the road to the office takes care. Still, the lakefront setting more than makes up for it and it remains a lovely campground with one of the best spots for sunrise and sunset.

• Address: 2819 State Highway 1, Motutere, Taupō 3382
• Features: Lakefront powered & non-powered sites, cabins, boat ramp, kayak hire, kitchen, BBQs, laundry, dump station, Wi-Fi.
• Local Tip: Request a lakefront site — sunrise and sunset here are unbeatable.

Lake Taupō Holiday Resort

This holiday park is known for its resort-style facilities — think a thermally heated lagoon pool with a swim-up bar, plus plenty of entertainment for kids. It can be noisy at times, especially in school holidays but the facilities really do make up for it.

• Address: 41 Centennial Drive, Taupō 3378
• Features: Powered & non-powered sites, lagoon-style heated pool, swim-up bar, playgrounds, tennis courts, on-site café, shop, BBQs, Wi-Fi.
• Local Tip: If you’re after peace and quiet, this may not be your first choice — but families will love it.

Hipapatua Recreational Reserve (Reid’s Farm)

For those chasing freedom camping, Hipapatua Recreational Reserve (Reid’s Farm) is a Taupō favourite. Set right on the Waikato River, it’s free to stay (maximum of 3 nights), and you’ll be surrounded by fellow travellers in campervans and tents. It’s nothing flash and offers basic facilities and the ground can get boggy after rain, so take care where you park — but it’s free and a solid spot to lay your head after a day of exploring.

Also part of the wider Hipapatua Reserve is a separate area with great swimming holes, good daytime parking (but no overnight stays), plus clean toilets and dishwashing facilities, just 20 metres walk from the grounds. On hot weekends, this area gets very busy with both locals and visitors, adding to the lively riverside vibe.

• Address: Huka Falls Road, Rangatira Park, Taupō 3384
• Features: Free camping, toilets, picnic areas, river swimming, shady grass areas.
• Local Tip: Arrive early to claim a good spot — it fills fast in summer.

Taupō TOP 10 Holiday Park

A reliable favourite, Taupō TOP 10 is just a short walk from town yet still feels tucked away and peaceful. I’ve stayed here myself and found it a pleasant and well-run park — clean facilities, friendly staff and plenty of space to relax. It’s a good all-rounder if you want to be close to Taupō’s attractions without giving up comfort.

• Address: 41 Centennial Drive, Taupō 3330
• Features: Powered & non-powered sites, cabins, swimming pool, spa pools, BBQs, kitchen, laundry, dump station, Wi-Fi.
• Local Tip: Handy if you want to be close to town while still enjoying the comforts of a holiday park.

Camping around Taupō isn’t just about where you park up — it’s about the memories you make once you’re there. From watching the sun rise over the lake to swapping stories with fellow travellers, every spot offers its own kind of magic. Whether you choose the comfort of a holiday park or the simplicity of freedom camping, Taupō will leave you with moments that linger long after you’ve packed up and moved on.