Image: Benhi Dixon | Creative Commons
Beach at Papatowai.
Papatowai Campsite

Located in Catlins coastal area in the Otago region

This is a standard campsite in the Coastal Otago area on the Catlins coast is nestled in the bush. It has easy access to the beautiful beach and estuary at Papatowai, and there are short walks nearby.

Fees

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

Pay online at the time of booking.

Passes

The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite. 

Campsite Pass bookings must be booked online before occupying a site. If you do not book, bookings may be made by campground staff (if present) and will incur a $10 service charge. Sites may not be available if you do not book. 

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.

Bookings are required all year.

Book Papatowai Campsite online.

Your booking will be for the number of people in your party – there are no designated sites. Find space for your party on arrival.

Turn off SH1 at Balclutha. Drive south past Owaka until you reach the Papatowai township. Sealed access.

Location

Grid reference: E1329443-N4837591
Latitude: -46.56074723, Longitude: 169.4699424
  • Bar on the river – not ideal for boats at low tide.
  • Limited mobile phone coverage.