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): $10 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $5 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 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026

Bookings open at 9.30 am on Tuesday 20 May 2025.

All bookings are first-come first-served. We do not have waiting lists for bookings for future seasons or facilities that are already booked-out.

Bookings for stays up to 30 June 2025

Bookings are currently open.

Bookings are required all year.

Book Papatowai Campsite online.

A $10 service fee applies to phone and in-person booking. This is a limited service – book online first. An in-person booking is dependent on there being space available.

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.