Rakaia Gorge Campground

⚠️Updated Notice (Water Issue Resolved)

Great news — we’re open again!

The recent water supply issue has now been fully resolved. We appreciate the quick response from the Selwyn District Council. Our campground is back to normal operations, and we’re looking forward to welcoming visitors again.

Thank you for your patience while this was sorted.

Welcome to Rakaia Gorge Campground — your riverside escape in the heart of Canterbury.

Our campground sits in one of Canterbury’s most dramatic landscapes, set beside the ever‑changing waters of the Rakaia River. The river’s colour and levels can shift quickly — as mountain rain feeds the flow — adding to the unique character of the gorge. With sweeping mountain views, it’s a peaceful base for anyone craving time in nature.

Whether you’re here to wander the walking tracks, cast a line or simply unwind under a sky full of stars, you’ll find space, serenity, and classic Kiwi camping charm.

We’re a relaxed, first‑come, first‑served campground — no bookings are taken or required. Because we don’t take reservations, we’re unable to confirm availability in advance.

📞 Want to know how busy we are before you head out?
Give our friendly caretakers a call a day or two before you arrive: +64 21 251 1817. They’re happy to give you an update — just keep in mind that we still don’t reserve spots.

Rates and Information

$15 per person per night (Cash is still welcome but we now have EFTPOS -$2 transaction fee).
Children under 10 stay free.
Checkout time: 11am. Last check-in 9.30pm.
Sorry we don't' accept bookings. Please call the caretakers on the day or the day before to check availability.

Camp Phone: 021 251 1817

Facilities

Very clean campsite and facilities.
Free gas heated hot showers.
Sorry no powered at the campground.
Covered area to prepare meals and do dishes, ideal for bike riders. You need to bring your own cooker.
Dogs are welcome but must be on leads at all times. Sorry cats are not allowed.

Experience Nature

Wake up to the sound of the river and the calls of bellbirds.
Spend your days fishing, jet boating, or exploring nearby hiking trails.
Enjoy your evenings under a sky full of stars.

Start your day with the sweet symphony of bellbirds greeting the dawn.

Come camp under the stars

What you can do nearby?

Nearby Hiking Trails

Rakaia Gorge Walkway: 9.8 km circular trail with stunning river and mountain views (3 hours 15 minutes).
Lower Gorge Lookout via Rakaia Gorge Walk: 1.9-mile out-and-back trail to a scenic lookout (1 hour).
Rakaia Gorge Lookout from Campground: Easy 1.2-mile out-and-back trail starting from the campground (33 minutes).

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended break, Rakaia Gorge Campground is the ideal spot to relax and reconnect with nature.

Rakaia Gorge WalkwayThis walkway offers several geological and historic features as it traverses the edge of the Rakaia Gorge.

Rakaia Gorge Lookout

Just a short stroll up the road to the lookout or take the river walk straight across from the camp that meanders along the river then up to the lookout.

Discovery Jet

Discovery Jet offers an adrenalin-pumping experience you'll never forget. You'll need to hang on tight as our driver skillfully weaves the jet boat through the intricate network of braided river channels, skimming along stony banks and through gushing opalescent blue waters rich with salmon and trout.www.discoveryjet.co.nz/