Image: Pete Brady | DOC
Flat grass area surrounded by trees.
Butchers Flat Campsite

Located in Mount Richmond Forest Park in the Marlborough region

This grassy, flat camping area was once a gold mining area and is great for picnicking or swimming. You'll also find walking and mountain biking opportunities nearby.

Check road conditions

Severe weather has damaged many roads in the Marlborough Sounds. Before you travel to our facilities, check the latest road updates on the Marlborough District Council website.

Picnic, swim or fish in the Wakamarina River and walk or mountain bike on the nearby Doom or Wakamarina Tracks.

There are high, unfenced cliffs at this campsite, so children need to be supervised. Toilets are wheelchair accessible, with assistance.

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $5 per night
  • Infant (0–4 years): free

Passes

The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite. 

Bookings

Bookings for the 2026/27 season open at 12 noon on Friday 15 May 2026.  

  • If no availability shows online for your dates, the campsite is fully booked.
  • No spaces are kept for campers arriving without a booking.
  • Phone and in‑person bookings made at a visitor centre incur a $10 service fee.
  • Same‑day bookings are available online until 8 pm if spaces remain.

Location

NZTM2000 coordinates: E1649697, N5419298
Latitude: -41.37630294, Longitude: 173.59430828

Water safety

If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.

Give eels space when swimming

Eels live in the river in this area so if you are swimming remember you are in their homes.

If they feel threatened, they have been known to bite people. This is very rare, and generally results in a small graze. Eels usually avoid people and are mostly active at night.