Area & getting there
Kakapo 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
- -38.95398, 176.17428 (latitude, longitude)
- Precision
- Coordinates retained at DOC's published precision; positional accuracy is not specified.
- Source
- Kakapo Campsite: published DOC Location coordinates (new tab)
Department of Conservation - Location source checked
Read the full guideArrival, planning and local advice
- Kakapo Campsite is listed in DOC's Basic directory for Kaimanawa Forest Park, Central North Island. DOC lists access by campervan, car, caravan.
- DOC lists first-come camping without a required reservation. Plan a backup because a place is not guaranteed.
- 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.
- Camping category
- Basic
- Access
- Campervan, Car, Caravan
- Fees
- DOC lists non-powered camping as free; confirm current conditions and any separate booking charges.
- Water
- DOC lists an untreated water source. Treat or boil drinking water, and carry a reserve in case the supply is unavailable.
Kakapo Campsite is listed in DOC's Basic directory for Kaimanawa Forest Park, Central North Island. DOC lists access by campervan, car, caravan.
Location and camping category
This listing is for Kakapo Campsite, in Kaimanawa Forest Park. DOC places it in the Basic 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 campervan, car, caravan. Confirmed camping setup indicators are tent, campervan, caravan. Check access-road and site limitations for the actual vehicle or tent you intend to use.
Facilities, water and pets
The checked DOC facility list includes fire pit/place for campfires (except in fire bans); non-powered/tent sites; toilets - non-flush; water from stream. 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 lists conditions for bringing dogs. Check the exact permit, control and access rules before travelling with a dog.
Fees and booking
DOC lists non-powered camping as free; confirm current conditions and any separate booking charges. DOC lists first-come camping without a required reservation. Plan a backup because a place is not guaranteed. Camping passes, hut bookings and transport fares are separate questions; confirm exactly what your reservation or pass covers for Kakapo Campsite.
Before travelling
Recheck the official DOC alerts, route conditions and opening restrictions immediately before travel. DOC also lists fishing, hunting, rafting, 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 Kakapo 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 Kakapo Campsite?
DOC lists first-come camping without a required reservation. Plan a backup because a place is not guaranteed.
Can I bring a dog?
DOC lists conditions for bringing dogs. Check the exact permit, control and access rules before travelling with a dog.
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.
