Area & getting there
Cowshed Bay Campsite
DOC's published campsite location point, not a surveyed entrance or individual pitch.
Official location information: Department of Conservation (new tab)Location source & precision
- Reference coordinates
- -41.20147, 174.02783 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- Coordinates retained at DOC's published precision; positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- Cowshed Bay Campsite: published DOC Location coordinates (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Cowshed Bay Campsite is listed in DOC's Standard directory for Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere and Kenepuru Sound area, Marlborough. DOC lists access by boat, campervan, car, foot.
- Book the campsite through the official booking link before arrival; a booking for a hut bed is not a camping reservation.
- DOC lists an untreated water source. Treat or boil drinking water, and carry a reserve in case the supply is unavailable.
- Recheck the official DOC alerts, route conditions and opening restrictions immediately before travel. The DOC directory showed 2 alerts when checked. Read the current notices; this is not a live access report.
- Camping category
- Standard
- Access
- Boat, Campervan, Car, Foot
- Fees
- DOC lists an adult non-powered camping rate of NZ$15 per night. Confirm the applicable age band, dates, eligibility, booking fees and current tariff before paying.
- Water
- DOC lists an untreated water source. Treat or boil drinking water, and carry a reserve in case the supply is unavailable.
Cowshed Bay Campsite is listed in DOC's Standard directory for Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere and Kenepuru Sound area, Marlborough. DOC lists access by boat, campervan, car, foot.
Location and camping category
This listing is for Cowshed Bay Campsite, in Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere and Kenepuru Sound area. DOC places it in the Standard category. Compare this individual site with nearby options rather than assuming every campsite in the surrounding reserve has the same facilities or booking rules.
Arriving and choosing a camping setup
DOC lists access by boat, campervan, car, foot. Confirmed camping setup indicators are tent, campervan. Check access-road and site limitations for the actual vehicle or tent you intend to use. Boat access requires a separate transport plan: check landing arrangements, weather, tide constraints and the return journey with the relevant operator. For walking access, plan the full approach and return with an overnight pack, including route conditions, daylight and a weather contingency.
Facilities, water and pets
The checked DOC facility list includes non-powered/tent sites; shelter for cooking; shower - cold; toilets - flush; water from tap - not treated, boil before use; wheelchair accessible with assistance. A facility not listed is unconfirmed, rather than proof that it is absent.
DOC lists an untreated water source. Treat or boil drinking water, and carry a reserve in case the supply is unavailable. DOC states dogs are not permitted. Assistance-dog and other-pet arrangements require confirmation with DOC.
Fees and booking
DOC lists an adult non-powered camping rate of NZ$15 per night. Confirm the applicable age band, dates, eligibility, booking fees and current tariff before paying. Book the campsite through the official booking link before arrival; a booking for a hut bed is not a camping reservation. Camping passes, hut bookings and transport fares are separate questions; confirm exactly what your reservation or pass covers for Cowshed Bay Campsite.
Before travelling
Recheck the official DOC alerts, route conditions and opening restrictions immediately before travel. The DOC directory showed 2 alerts when checked. Read the current notices; this is not a live access report. DOC also lists boating, fishing, mountain biking, walking and tramping in the activity information; this does not confirm equipment hire, a guided service or safe conditions on your travel dates. The map reference uses the coordinates published in DOC's Location section. It is a destination reference, not a surveyed pitch or verified vehicle entrance.
Read the official Cowshed Bay Campsite page for current fees, detailed directions, restrictions and booking links. Information checked 2026-10-08; this guide is not a live availability or safety report.
Common questions
Do I need to book Cowshed Bay Campsite?
Book the campsite through the official booking link before arrival; a booking for a hut bed is not a camping reservation.
Can I bring a dog?
DOC states dogs are not permitted. Assistance-dog and other-pet arrangements require confirmation with DOC.
Is the drinking water treated?
DOC lists an untreated water source. Treat or boil drinking water, and carry a reserve in case the supply is unavailable.
