Image: DOC
Teetotal Campsite.
Teetotal Campsite

Located in Nelson Lakes National Park and St Arnaud area in the Nelson/Tasman region

Use this campsite as a base to explore nearby Nelson Lakes National Park.

This is an easily accessible campsite just west of the village of St Arnaud and close to the Nelson Lakes National Park.

It offers excellent mountain biking through summer and is connected to St Arnaud by a 1.2 km dual walking and mountain biking track.

Facilities

Nearest dump station is Kerr Bay Campsite in St Arnaud.

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
  • Infant (0 - 4 years): free

During summer: Pay at the Rotoiti/Nelson Lakes Visitor Centre in St Arnaud from 8 am – 4:30 pm, or pay the camp host who is onsite mornings and evenings. Credit/bank card payment is available in both cases.

During winter: Pay at the Rotoiti/Nelson lakes Visitor Centre or use the self-registration kiosk.

Passes

The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite. 

Turn off SH63 1 km west of St Arnaud.

Access: gravel

Location

Latitude: -41.7928, Longitude: 172.8337
  • Take repellent for sandflies.
  • Dogs are allowed in Teetotal Campsite, just outside Nelson Lakes National Park, but are not allowed in the national park.
  • Be aware of wasps in the summer months.

  • There is a firing range around 1.5 km northwest of the campsite. You are unlikely to hear any gunshots from the campsite, but you may see or hear the firing range if you go walking or biking in Teetotal recreation area. The firing range is fenced and signposted. If a red flag is flying at the range, expect to hear gunshots.

High fire risk

There is a year-round fire ban in this area. Never light a campfire here.

The vegetation surrounding Teetotal Campsite is highly flammable. A campfire in this area could easily get out of control and spread to St Arnaud Village and the National Park.

Mountain biking

Teetotal mountain bike tracks range from easy to expert.

Walking and tramping

Walking and tramping in nearby Nelson Lakes National Park covers short walks, day walks and overnight/multi-night tramps.

Water activities

Swimming, boating and kayaking are possible in Lake Rotoiti. There is a boat launch at West Bay and Kerr Bay.

Winter activities

Ice skating is possible on Duck Pond, right at the Teetotal Campsite.

The Rainbow Ski Area is 45 minute drive.