The Ultimate Guide to Camping at Lake Tekapo

Camping at Lake Tekapo is truly a bucket-list experience. It's your chance to step away from the chaos of daily life and into a world where nature takes centre stage. The gem of the South Island, Lake Tekapo's postcard-perfect landscapes make it a must-visit destination for campers from all over the world. But with so many options available, planning your trip can feel a bit daunting. Where should you pitch up? What should you pack? And most importantly, how can you make the most of everything this incredible location has to offer?

In this guide, we’ll give you tips to help you make the most of camping at Lake Tekapo and share what makes Lake's Edge Holiday Park the ultimate base for your adventure.

Why Camp at Lake Tekapo?

Imagine waking up with a view over a mirror-glazed turquoise lake, framed by majestic mountains. Then at night, watch the sky transform into a canvas of stars - the largest "dark sky reserve" of its kind in the world. Whether you’re an early riser who loves to catch the sunrise over the mountains or someone who enjoys quiet evenings by the water, Lake Tekapo delivers at every turn.

Sitting amongst the Southern Alps, the lake sets the scene for the perfect camping trip. During the day, you can hike or bike the many trails, consisting of everything from easy walks to more challenging treks. For water lovers, the lake offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply cooling off after a long hot day. And when you’re ready to unwind, the nearby Tekapo Springs offers hot pools with a view, adding a touch of luxury to your camping trip.

When night falls, the sky comes alive, making it a paradise for stargazers. Lay back and watch the Milky Way stretch across the sky. It's a sight few get to experience, and fewer will forget.

Lake Tekapo is one of those rare places where you can genuinely escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Switch off, sit back and reconnect with yourself, your loved ones and the great outdoors.

Top Camping Spots in Lake Tekapo

Nothing quite beats the feeling of opening your tent to stunning scenic views. And Lake Tekapo camping is the best possible example of this. It’s important to note that freedom camping or “wild camping” is prohibited in Lake Tekapo, so if you’re hoping to wake up with a view across the crystal clear waters, you’ll need to book a spot at an official campsite.

If you’d like to freedom camp, your nearest options are Lake Opuha and Lake Pukaki. However, as these are a 25-45-minute drive away and you can only camp in a self contained vehicle, most visitors opt to stay at a Lake Tekapo campground instead, allowing them to make the most of the local stargazing (more on that shortly).

And when it comes to Lake Tekapo camping, nowhere quite compares to Lake's Edge Holiday Park. Nestled right on the shores of Lake Tekapo, our park offers everything you need for a relaxing and hassle-free stay. Offering powered and unpowered sites, you’ll enjoy the added comfort of modern facilities, a safe environment, and the camaraderie of fellow campers. It’s the perfect base for exploring everything the area has to offer, just a short walk from key attractions like the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Whether you’re drawn to the comfort of Lake's Edge Holiday Park or the simplicity of freedom camping, Lake Tekapo promises an unforgettable camping experience. But for those who want the best of both worlds - nature and convenience - Lake's Edge Holiday Park is the ideal place to set up camp.

Learn more in Top 10 Things to Do Near Lakes Edge Holiday Park.

Camping Tips for Lake Tekapo

Camping at Lake Tekapo is an amazing experience, but being prepared is the key to making sure your trip is safe and enjoyable. Here are some handy tips to help you get the most out of your adventure in this stunning part of New Zealand.

#1 Prepare for all seasons

New Zealand is well known for experiencing four seasons in one day, and Lake Tekapo is no exception. The weather here can often be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for whatever the sky throws at you.

Even in summer, nights can get pretty chilly, and surprise rain showers can happen at any time. With that in mind, make sure you have a quality sleeping bag that can handle cold temperatures, a waterproof tent, and plenty of layers to stay warm. And don’t forget a good pair of waterproof boots - nothing puts more of a damper on your morning hike like wet feet!

#2 Stay up stargazing

One of the best parts of camping at Lake Tekapo is the chance to stargaze under some of the clearest skies on the planet. Being part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve means you’ll have front-row seats to one of the most spectacular natural stargazing spots you’ll ever experience.

Bring along a telescope or binoculars if you’d like to get an up-close look at the stars, planets, and maybe even a galaxy or two. Or, consider joining a local stargazing tour - they’ve got all the gear and expert guides to help you get the most out of your experience. The best stargazing happens during a new moon when the sky is darkest. Winter often brings clearer skies, but remember to bundle up, it gets cold out there!

#3 Be aware of wildlife

While you’re camping, you’ll likely come across some of Lake Tekapo’s local wildlife. Most animals are harmless, but it’s important to give them space and avoid attracting them to your campsite.

Keep your food stored securely, ideally in sealed containers, to avoid attracting birds or small mammals. And no matter how cute they might be, never feed the wildlife - it can throw off their natural diet and behaviour. When you’re out hiking, maintain a respectful distance from any animals you encounter.

#4 Leave no trace

Keeping Lake Tekapo as beautiful as it is today is a responsibility we all share. When you camp at Lake Tekapo, you’re not just a visitor, you become a guardian of this incredible landscape. By making the Tiaki Promise, you help ensure that Lake Tekapo remains as beautiful and unspoiled as it is today.

The Tiaki Promise

While travelling in New Zealand, I will:

● care for land, sea and nature, treading lightly and leaving no trace

● travel safely, showing care and consideration for all

● respect culture, travelling with an open heart and mind

Whether you’re stargazing under a blanket of stars or hiking the rugged trails, a little preparation and respect for the environment go a long way toward ensuring that you enjoy all that this incredible region has to offer while preserving it for others.

In terms of camping, make sure you "take only photos, leave only footprints". Clean your campsite up thoroughly before you leave, disposing of any rubbish and being careful not to damage any vegetation. If you're exploring the landscape, stick to the designated trails to reduce your footprint.

By leaving the environment as you found it, you help to preserve the natural beauty of Lake Tekapo.

We’re waiting for you - come and camp at Lake Tekapo!

From seasoned campers to those just beginning to dabble, Lake Tekapo is definitely a destination that should be on your radar. We may be a little biased, but we think it’s one of the best camping spots in New Zealand. It’s the kind of place that sticks with you long after you've returned to regular life. And with its unbeatable location, Lake's Edge Holiday Park is the ideal place to soak up everything the region has to offer.

So, why wait? Start planning your Lake Tekapo camping trip and Lake's Edge be the base for your adventure.