Beach at Papatowai

Image: Benhi Dixon | Creative Commons

Papatowai Campsite

Located in Catlins coastal area in the Otago region

Introduction

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.

Campsite overview

Access

  • Campervan
  • Car
  • Caravan

Landscape

  • Coastal

Category

  • Category
Standard

Bookings

  • Bookings

Bookings not required - first come, first served

Facilities

  • Non-powered/tent sites
  • Shelter for cooking
  • Shop
  • Toilets - non-flush
  • Water from tap - not treated, boil before use
  • Wheelchair accessible
116 non-powered/tent sites

Seasonal restrictions

Fires are not permitted at any time.

Dog access

Dogs on a leash only

About this campsite

Getting there

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

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $8 per night
  • Child (5 - 17 years): $4 per night
  • Infant (0 - 4 years): free

Pay cash on arrival at the self-registration stand at the campsite.

Passes

The DOC/NZMCA Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite.

Backcountry Hut Passes cannot be used at this campsite.

Bookings

From November 2020, bookings will be required for this site. Bookings will open on 2 November 2020 at 9:30 am, for trips from 2 November 2020.

You'll need an account on our booking system for campsites, huts and lodges to make a booking.

Know before you go

  • Bar on the river – not ideal at low tide.
  • Limited mobile phone coverage. 

Contacts

Murihiku / Invercargill Office
Phone:   +64 3 211 2400
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   invercargill@doc.govt.nz
Address:   7th Floor
CUE on Don
33 Don Street
Invercargill 9810
Postal Address:   PO Box 743
Invercargill 9840
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