Picnic Bay Campsite

Located in Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere and Kenepuru Sound area in the Marlborough region

This is a scenic area with walking, sea kayaking, motor boating, kayaking, fishing and bird watching.

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.

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.

Turn off Queen Charlotte Drive at Linkwater into Kenepuru Rd and follow 2 km past Portage.

Narrow, winding road.

Location

NZTM2000: E1687688, N5439092
Latitude: -41.19527845, Longitude: 174.04645666

Camp rules

  • All groups must include a responsible adult 18+.
  • Quiet hours are from 9.30 pm – 6.30 am.
  • Generators allowed from 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm only.
  • Music players must be used with headphones or played at a level not audible to neighbouring campsites.

Water safety

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