Lake Ōkāreka Campsite
Located in Lake Ōkāreka Scenic Reserve in the Bay of Plenty region
Introduction
This lakeside campsite is only 15 min from Rotorua. You can swim or fish in the lake.Access
- Boat
- Campervan
- Car
Facilities
- Non-powered/tent sites
- Shelter for cooking
- Toilets - non-flush
- Water from stream
- Wheelchair accessible with assistance
Activities
- Fishing
- Swimming
Seasonal restrictions
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Dog access
Image gallery
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Morning at Lake Okareka Campsite Image: Elizabeth Marenzi | DOC
![Morning mist over Lake Okareka.]( "Morning mist over Lake Okareka.")
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Cooking shelter Image: Elizabeth Marenzi | DOC
![Cooking shelter at Lake Okareka Campsite]( "Cooking shelter at Lake Okareka Campsite")
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One of the toilet blocks at Lake Okareka Campsite Image: Elizabeth Marenzi | DOC
![One of the toilet blocks at Lake Okareka Campsite.]( "One of the toilet blocks at Lake Okareka Campsite.")
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Sunset at Lake Okareka Image: Elizabeth Marenzi | DOC
![Sunset at Lake Okareka.]( "Sunset at Lake Okareka.")
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Lake Okareka picnic table Image: Nicole Portner Photography ©
![Lake Okareka picnic table.]( "Lake Okareka picnic table.")
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Lake Okareka jetty Image: Nicole Portner Photography ©
![Lake Okareka jetty.]( "Lake Okareka jetty.")
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Lake Okareka Image: Nicole Portner Photography ©
![Lake Okareka.]( "Lake Okareka.")
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Campers by the lake Image: | DOC
![Campers by Lake Okareka.]( "Campers by Lake Okareka.")
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
- Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
- Infant (0–4 years): free
Bookings are not required at this campground. Sites are allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.
Head east out of Rotorua on SH30 towards Whakatane for approx 1.7 km. Take a right turn onto Tarawera Rd at the large roundabout, then left onto Ōkāreka Loop Rd. When you reach the settlement of Ōkāreka turn left onto Millar Rd. The turn-off to the Ōkāreka campsite is on the right where the seal ends (access to the campsite is sealed).
Location
Latitude: -38.16203748, Longitude: 176.36073025
- Water from the lake must must be boiled before drinking.
- There is limited room at the campsite.
- Site not suitable for vehicles over 6 metres in length.
- Fires are not permitted at any time.
Dogs are not allowed in areas administered by DOC in the Rotorua area.
Water safety
If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.
Kayaking and swimming
The lakeside campground is a popular swimming spot. Bring the kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake surrounds.
Fishing
Fish along the shores of Lake Ōkāreka. Note: Fishing on this lake requires a licence from Fish and Game Eastern Region.
Walking
Walk the Lake Ōkāreka Scenic Reserve community track.
- This easy 2 km track (1 hr one way) links Boyes Beach Campsite and amenity area to the lakeside DOC campsite and amenity area. It was built and is maintained by the local community.
- It takes you through native forest, wetlands and a sandy beach. The relatively flat terrain and accessibility, including two small sections of boardwalk, makes this ideal for young families.
- Note that Boyes Beach amenity area and campground is managed by Rotorua Lakes Council. Camping in tents is not permitted at Boyes Beach.
Check, Clean, Dry
Clean all gear when moving between waterways to prevent the spread of didymo and other freshwater pests.
Contacts
| Rotorua Office | |
| Phone: | 07 349 7400 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | rotorua@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
99 Sala Street Rotorua 3010 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 1146 Rotorua 3040 |
| Full office details | |
| Rotorua i-SITE Visitor Information Centre | |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | rotoruavisitor@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
1167 Fenton St Rotorua |
| Postal Address: |
Private Bag 3007 Rotorua |
| Full office details | |