Camping guide · Where to camp

Camping in Rotorua: Lakeside and Geothermal Holiday Parks

The shore of Lake Rotorua under a cloudy sky — Photo: “Lake Rotorua in Rotorua 03” by Krzysztof Golik, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Overview

Rotorua gives campers two choices: stay in town, close to the geothermal sights and restaurants, or stay by the lakes, close to the Redwoods trails. The two parks we've profiled show the difference well.

In the city: Tasman Holiday Parks – Rotorua

Tasman Holiday Parks – Rotorua is on Pukuatua Street, a one-minute walk from Kuirau Park. Kuirau is a free public geothermal park with mud pools, steam vents and a foot bath.

About a 12-minute walk to the city centre, and about 20 minutes on foot to Eat Street on Tutanekai Street.
Heated mineral pool, hot tubs, and indoor and outdoor playgrounds.
Pets are welcome on sites, on a lead. Cabins aren't pet-friendly.

By the lake: Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10

Rotorua Blue Lake TOP 10 is on Tarawera Road beside Lake Tikitapu (the Blue Lake), about 10 minutes' drive from the city.

Close to Whakarewarewa Forest (the Redwoods).
Safari glamping tents as well as sites, cabins and motels.
Playground, jumping pillow, spa and a dump station.
Pet-friendly, with terms and conditions.

Which should you choose?

If you want…	Choose
To walk to town, Kuirau Park and restaurants	Tasman Rotorua
A lakeside setting away from the city	Blue Lake TOP 10
Mountain biking in the Redwoods	Blue Lake TOP 10 is closer, but both are within a 10-minute drive
A hot soak on site	Both: Blue Lake has a spa, Tasman a heated mineral pool and hot tubs

Things to do from camp

Ride or walk in the Redwoods. See our Whakarewarewa Forest guide.
Visit Kuirau Park's mud pools for free.
See our Rotorua city guide for more attractions.

Pets, fires and bookings

Both parks allow pets on sites, with conditions. Confirm with the park before you book.
No open fires at Tasman Rotorua, which provides BBQs instead.
Book ahead for school holidays and long weekends.