Area & getting there
Urchin 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
- -39.15418, 175.82307 (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
- Basic Kaimanawa Forest camping reached from the Urchin turnoff, near walking and biking routes.
- No onsite water despite the stream-water icon; bring your own supply.
- No horses. Dogs need DOC permission and fireplaces remain subject to restrictions.
- Camping styles
- tent, campervan, caravan
- Fees
- Non-powered camping: DOC lists free camping; first come, first served.
- Water
- No water at camp. DOC mentions a source 150 m down Tree Trunk Gorge Track; bring your own rather than expecting onsite taps.
Basic Kaimanawa Forest camping reached from the Urchin turnoff, near walking and biking routes.
Take the Urchin turnoff deliberately
Urchin is a separate campground from nearby Kaimanawa Road Campsite. Follow the signed junction from Kaimanawa Road and check that the arrival point matches the campground, not simply a trailhead with a familiar name. It suits campers who want time for local walking or mountain biking without shifting their overnight base. Allow enough daylight to inspect the ground and organise equipment after the drive.
Bring water despite the stream symbol
The page's stream-water listing needs its written qualification: there is no water at the campsite itself, and the mentioned source is down Tree Trunk Gorge Track. Arrive with your own containers filled rather than relying on an immediate refill after dark. Consider how much cooking and washing your planned stay requires, especially if several people are sharing one vehicle or combining the camp with cycling.
Leave room for changing plans
First-come camping means a pitch cannot be reserved ahead. Keep another lawful stop in mind if the small campground is busy or conditions do not suit your setup. Check the actual activity route separately, including the group's ability to return before dark. Dogs require DOC permission and horses are prohibited. Treat any designated fireplace as an optional facility, with a stove-based meal plan that remains workable without it.
Check the official campsite information for current restrictions, facilities and booking arrangements.
