Where can I camp?

It’s an incredible scenic destination to stay and play in, and we want to keep it this way by protecting our unique natural resources through sustainable camping practices.

Self-contained camping

Certified self-contained vehicles are allowed to park overnight on any council-owned or council-managed land other than on our reserves and Ferry Road, where camping is not permitted.

If you are unsure of whether you can park your self-contained vehicle in an area of the Taupo district, keep an eye out for signs that show where it is not permitted. You will also need to display your current self-containment warrant to show you meet the New Zealand standard.

Non-self-contained camping

This map shows you where you can camp on council land if you are not in a self-contained vehicle. There are four areas to choose from: at Hipapatua Recreational Reserve/Reid's Farm, Whakamaru Domain, Mangakino Recreation Reserve and Whakamaru Recreation Reserve. Each of these locations has a specific area for camping in New Zealand.

The maximum stay at a single site is three nights and four days, before it’s time to move on and make space for another traveler. Look out for signs around the region that help you determine whether you can park your vehicle up for the night.

DOC manage a diverse range of campsites within unique forest settings deep in the Kaimanawa Forest Park to the flanks of Mt Ruapehu in the stunning alpine setting of Tongariro National Park. Find a DOC campsite to explore and enjoy the best of the Kiwi outdoors.

We encourage responsible camping fun at all our commercial holiday parks and campgrounds, designated freedom camping areas or Department of Conservation (DOC) camping areas. 

Four Basic Rules for Freedom Camping in Taupo

1. Camping on private property is not allowed.
2. Campervans must have their own toilets and fresh water; unless these are provided by the campsite.
3. On-board toilets may only be emptied at dump stations (see locations below).
4. Help us keep Great Lake Taupo clean by disposing of your rubbish and waste responsibly.

Rubbish and Waste

Where can I dispose of my recycling and rubbish?

You can dispose of rubbish and recycling at any of the landfill and transfer stations in the Taupo region.

Taupo: 132 Broadlands Road, Taupo
Kinloch: 780 Whangamata Rd, Kinloch
Mangakino: 10 Depot Rd, Mangakino
Omori: 224 Te Puke Rd, Omori
Turangi: 62 Tukehu St, Turangi
Whareroa: 453 Whareroa Rd, Whareroa

Find out the charges and opening hours of the landfill and transfer stations here.

Where can I dispose of my toilet waste?

Motorhome grey waste can be disposed of for free, 24 hours a day at the following dump stations.

• Riverside Park, Taupo
• Two Mile Bay Boat Ramp, Taupo
• Mata Place, Kinloch Marina

Most commercial campgrounds and holiday parks have dump stations available for guests to use.

More information on responsible camping

• Talk to the friendly staff at the Taupo visitor information centres
• Book into one of Taupo region's campsites or holiday parks
• View the Rankers map of freedom camping sites around the region
• Check out the Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites
• Download the free CamperMate app