Responsible Camping Map

Where you can freedom camp responsibly in the Queenstown Lakes District.

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Responsible Camping Map

QLDC's Freedom Camping Bylaw comes into effect as of 1 December 2025. Below is an interactive map showing designated freedom camping sites, areas that are prohibited for camping, and public facilities and paid campgrounds across the district.

Responsible camping sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Spaces cannot be prebooked. After securing a space, campers must check in using the QR code provided at the location. This helps keep others informed when the site reaches capacity. For real-time availability, you can also view the QLDC Responsible Camping Dashboard.

The Queenstown Lakes District is an extremely popular destination for freedom camping, and free sites can fill up quickly - please have a backup plan in case sites are full. If designated freedom camping sites are full, check out other camping options which range from fully serviced holiday parks to Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites.

Freedom camping on other reserves managed by Department of Conservation may be restricted or prohibited. Freedom camping is not permitted anywhere on LINZ land in the Queenstown Lakes region.

Responsible Camping Site Availability

A dashboard that shows freedom camping site availability to allow campers to plan ahead will be available to view here from 1 December 2025.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We have compiled a list of answers for frequently asked questions related to Responsible Camping.