Area & getting there
Butchers Flat Campsite
DOC campsite reference point, not a verified entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -41.37630, 173.59431 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- WGS84 coordinates retained at the official service's returned precision; decimal resolution is not survey accuracy. Source positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- DOC Maps campsite reference point (WGS84), exact official-page asset ID (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Wakamarina Valley camping with river outings and serious unfenced-cliff hazards.
- High unfenced cliffs require close supervision of children.
- Check road and track conditions separately. Dogs need a DOC permit; no fires.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan
- Fees
- NZ$10 per adult (18+) per night, non-powered. Recheck the total for your dates.
- Water
- Untreated tap water; DOC says to boil before use. Carry a reserve.
Wakamarina Valley camping with river outings and serious unfenced-cliff hazards.
Separate campsite and track access
Butchers Flat is in the Wakamarina Valley within Mount Richmond Forest Park. Confirm the current approach with DOC and consult Marlborough road updates rather than assuming every trackhead route remains usable by vehicle. When planning a walking or cycling day, identify where the driving ends and the activity begins. Leave time to unload, check equipment and read signs without having to hurry straight onto a track after arrival.
Choose a safe base first
The grassy former mining area is near the Wakamarina River, and DOC warns of high unfenced cliffs. Make supervision arrangements explicit before children explore. Select the tent and cooking position around safe movement, not simply the preferred outlook. For a mixed-ability party, decide on an outing everybody can comfortably complete, or establish separate plans with clear return times. Nearby walking and cycling opportunities do not by themselves establish an easy family circuit.
Prepare for independent camping
An advance camping booking is required. Arrange a dog's permit separately if relevant, and keep both permissions available with the trip notes. Bring food that can be prepared with your own equipment and set aside enough water for the first meal and morning departure. After an active day, organise wet footwear away from bedding and leave a clear path through camp. A simple evening routine helps keep attention on the surrounding terrain rather than misplaced kit.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
