Camping in Picton New Zealand | 6 Best Campgrounds (2024)

Have you been wondering about camping in Picton New Zealand? I’ve got you covered!

I’m a proud Kiwi and have lived in New Zealand for most of my life, 27 years to be exact. Camping trips are one of my favourite summer activities and I go on multiple camping trips every year. One place I love to go camping is Picton, a beautiful coastal town located in the South Island.

I have had the pleasure of camping in this stunning location on multiple occasions and each time I’ve had to decide where to stay.

For new campers, making a decision about where to stay can be tricky. With numerous campgrounds to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is best. Fortunately, I am here to help! I have gathered insider knowledge and experience after spending time camping in Picton, and I want to share it with you.

I have compiled the best campgrounds, each offering something unique. I also have advice on how to prepare for your stay in Picton, including things to pack. With my guidance and insider knowledge, I’m sure you will find the perfect campground and have a wonderful time in this beautiful coastal town!

1. Tasman Holiday Parks Picton

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 78 Waikawa Road, Picton | ✅ Book it!

Tasman Holiday Parks Picton is the perfect camping spot for people wanting to explore the beautiful town of Picton. Located just 10 minutes from the town centre, the park is conveniently located across the road from the Picton Marina.

I love how easy it is to take a short stroll down and experience the incredible sunsets! Picton sunsets are really gorgeous so I’d highly recommend watching the sunset before heading out to dinner.

The park offers a range of accommodation options, from motels and villas to cabins and unpowered/powered sites. I travelled here in a campervan and booked a powered site specifically for campervans which are sealed and have everything you need.

There’s also a solar-heated swimming pool, communal kitchen facilities and a BBQ area, all of which make for an enjoyable stay. So why not check out Tasman Holiday Parks Picton and enjoy the beauty of Picton – you won’t regret it!

Pros for Tasman Holiday Parks Picton:

• Offers a range of accommodation options, from cabins to camping sites
• Close to local attractions and activities
• Onsite facilities include a playground, BBQ area, and large swimming pool
• Pet-friendly accommodation options available
• Free WiFi

Cons for Tasman Holiday Parks Picton:

• Parking can be limited
• Expensive for some
• Some of the cabins offer quite basic amenities

2. Picton’s Waikawa Bay Holiday Park

⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 5 Waimarama Street, Picton | ✅ Book it!

Picton’s Waikawa Bay Holiday Park is the ultimate spot for camping and exploring the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds. It’s a must-visit for anyone eager to experience the beauty of this incredible destination. Only 7 minutes away from the Interislander ferry, this holiday park offers a range of accommodation options and facilities to suit every budget.

From campsites to campervan sites, cabins and self contained units – you’re sure to find something to fit your needs. The park also boasts a swimming pool and is only a 5-minute walk from the beautiful Waikawa Bay beach. Communal facilities include a self-service laundry and a covered outdoor dining area with a BBQ – perfect for a summer evening!

There is also a spacious shared kitchen, equipped with a refrigerator, a microwave and a small oven. Make Picton’s Waikawa Bay Holiday Park your home away from home – you won’t be disappointed!

Pros for Picton’s Waikawa Bay Holiday Park:

• Close to Waikawa Bay with lovely views
• Pet-friendly accommodation by arrangement
• Variety of accommodation options, from powered and unpowered sites to fully equipped cabins
• On-site laundry and kitchen facilities

Cons for Picton’s Waikawa Bay Holiday Park:

• Unreliable wi-fi connection
• Picton centre is 3.7km away
• No shops within short walking distance

“Excellent facility. Clean and staff so friendly and helpful. Will be staying there again for sure!” -Kristen (Read more reviews)

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3. Picton Campervan Park

⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | 📍 LOCATION: 42 Kent Street, Picton | ✅ Book it!

The Picton Campervan Park is the perfect spot for travellers looking to camp in Picton. Situated just a short drive from the ferry and a 10 minute walk to Picton’s town centre, it’s the closest holiday park around.

Plus, there’s even free high-speed wifi here, so you can easily watch videos, post your travel pics or keep in touch with friends and family back home. Picton Campervan Park offers a selection of cabins, campervans and caravan sites. The campervan and caravan sites are set on gravel bays and have their own power hook-up and freshwater supply. 

Unfortunately, tents and rooftop tents are not allowed but the communal kitchen and laundry facilities make it a great spot to stay for a night or two. This is the most convenient park to stay at if you have a late-night or early-morning ferry.

Pros for Picton Campervan Park:

• Great location in the heart of Picton town and close to the ferry
• Close to all the attractions and amenities
• Clean amenities blocks with free hot showers
• Free Wi-Fi available to all guests

• Can be noisy at night due to the location
• You can only stay here with a campervan and caravan, no tents allowed
• No swimming pool or playground
• Smaller campground size means limited parking for large vehicles
• Feels a bit like a parking lot with only gravel bays available

“Spotless restrooms, room, location convenient, nice owner who does all he can to make it great! Picton has lots to see!” – Shauna (Read more reviews)

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4. Parklands Marina Holiday Park

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 10 Beach Road, Picton | ✅ Book it!

Parklands Marina Holiday Park offers the perfect camping experience for travellers wanting to immerse themselves in the quieter side of Picton. Situated in the picturesque Waikawa Bay, the park provides a spacious and open area suitable for all types of travellers, from self-contained units to powered and unpowered sites.

It’s the perfect peaceful getaway situated away from the main road, surrounded by leafy trees and grass areas. The park is kept clean and tidy, with all the facilities you would expect, such as BBQs and a small pool.

To top it off, there’s a jumping pillow and TV room for the kids, and it’s only a 7-minute drive to downtown Picton for exploring. With access to the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, Parklands Marina Holiday Park is the ideal spot for your next camping adventure!

Pros for Parklands Marina Holiday Park:

• Plenty of green spaces creates a relaxing environment
• Short walk to the harbour
• Nearby restaurant with delicious meals and takeaways
• Clean and modern amenities

Cons of Parklands Marina Holiday Park:

• Cabins can get hot in summer
• Further away from Picton
• Wifi can be a bit patchy

“Beautiful location. The cabins were so gorgeous. Decorated with finishing touches. Perfect really.” – Philippa (Read more reviews)

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5. Alexanders Holiday Park

⭐️ RATING: 3.5/5 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 2c Canterbury Street, Picton | ✅ Book it!

Alexanders Holiday Park is a good spot for budget-conscious travellers camping in Picton for the first time. Nestled in the native bush by the Waitohi Stream, it’s a friendly family camp with spacious sites, cabins, powered and unpowered sites.

If you’re looking to cool off, the Waitohi Stream is a safe spot for swimming – even the chance to view glowworms! There are two kitchens with fridges, freezers, and microwaves, a TV lounge, and a children’s playground – everything you could need for your stay.

It’s good to know ahead of time that you will need to hire a towel and bedding separately. If you are arriving late at night you might want to plan ahead and bring your own.

Pros of Alexanders Holiday Park:

• Convenient location to the ferry and town
• Basic but clean on-site amenities
• Peaceful and quiet location
• The park offers competitive rates, so you can enjoy your stay without breaking the bank

Cons of Alexanders Holiday Park:

• Can be noisy due to the train track running above the campground
• Some units could do with a bit of TLC
• No free wifi

“Good accommodation close to the ferry terminal. Clean and comfortable budget room” – Bev (Read more reviews)

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6. Whatamango Bay Campsite Picton

⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars |📍 LOCATION: 1/37 Halifax Street, Picton | ✅ Book it!

If you’re looking for a camping experience close to nature, then Whatamango Bay Campsite Picton is the perfect spot for you! Situated only a 15-minute drive away from the Picton ferry, this DOC campground offers the chance to camp right beside the beach and go fishing.

The facilities are limited, so be sure to come prepared with everything you need, as there are no cooking facilities. However, there are flush toilets available. I would recommend bringing a gas cooker and some pots and pans at a minimum so you’re able to boil the tap water.

Bookings are required so don’t forget to plan your trip ahead of time.

The peace and tranquillity of Whatamango Bay makes it an ideal spot for travellers wanting to explore and enjoy the great outdoors. If you love getting off the grid for a while then this is the perfect spot for you.

Pros of Whatamango Bay Campsite:

• Picturesque surroundings and stunning views of the bay
• Great option for travellers on a budget

Cons of Whatamango Bay Campsite:

• Limited cell phone reception
• Limited amenities such as no showers or electricity
• No nearby stores

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What You Need to Know Before Camping in Picton

If you’re a first-time camper planning a trip to Picton, it’s important to know what to bring! When it comes to tent camping, you’ll need a tent that’s big enough and suitable for the weather conditions.

You’ll also want to make sure you have the right sleeping gear, like blankets and pillows, for the season you’re visiting. I usually visit Picton in the summer months so can get away with lighter layers and less bedding but if you’re planning to visit during the shoulder season or in winter you’ll want to bring an extra blanket or two to stay warm.

Then depending on the campground you’re staying at, basic cooking equipment might be required, if it is make sure you don’t forget a gas stove. Cutlery and plates might also not be provided so I always check the campgrounds website before my trip so I know what I need to bring.

Lastly, you’ll need to pack enough clothing layers for all kinds of weather patterns, insect repellent, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear for outdoor exploration. Doing your research and planning ahead is the best way to make sure you have a successful camping trip in Picton!

FAQs About Camping in Picton

What type of camping is available in Picton?

Facilities do vary between campgrounds but generally, campers will have the choice of staying in a traditional tent campsite, a powered campervan site, or in cabins. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, I guarantee you’ll be able to find a camping option that suits the holiday you’re after.

What amenities are available for campers?

Most campsites offer access to toilets and showers, as well as a communal kitchen with basic cooking facilities. Some sites also have laundromats, barbeque areas, and playgrounds.

Campgrounds in Picton do offer a variety of different amenities so it’s important to check the website ahead of time so you can be prepared with what you pack.

Is Picton worth visiting?

Absolutely! I personally love Picton and think it is such a cute town that a lot of travellers tend to miss.

There are plenty of activities for campers to enjoy in Picton, from swimming and kayaking in the Marlborough Sounds to visiting the wineries and local attractions. One of my favourite things to do in the area is visit Bob’s Bay, it’s a real hidden gem!

There are also plenty of walking and cycling trails in the area so I would recommend spending a day or two in Picton to take it all in.