Round Bush Campsite
Lake Ohau, Canterbury, New Zealand
Round Bush Campsite is a free, lakeside campsite on the shores of Lake Ohau in New Zealand's South Island, offering a quiet escape surrounded by native…
What it's like here
Round Bush Campsite is a free, lakeside campsite on the shores of Lake Ohau in New Zealand's South Island, offering a quiet escape surrounded by native beech forest. The setting is genuinely peaceful—the kind of place where you hear water and birdsong rather than traffic or crowds. The lake itself is clear and inviting, and the views across to the surrounding mountains are substantial enough to justify a longer stay or simply an afternoon by the water.
What makes it distinctive is the combination of being completely free and accessible without booking, yet genuinely scenic. It's not a remote backcountry hut; you can drive here and find a spot to pitch a tent or park a campervan. The beech forest backdrop and the colour of the water give it a wild alpine character that feels removed from the busier tourist lakes elsewhere in the region, even though it sits within reach of major attractions like Mount Cook.
Swimming is possible, and the campsite works well as a base for a day or weekend exploring the surrounding area. You can spend a morning photographing the light on the water, an afternoon swimming or paddling, and an evening watching the light change across the mountains. The experience is genuinely relaxing—no pressure, no schedule, no fees. Basic facilities include toilets, though there is no drinking water or powered sites, so come prepared.
It suits solo travellers, couples, families and groups of friends equally well. The atmosphere is so quiet that it's as comfortable for someone seeking solitude as it is for a small gathering. If you're exploring the South Island and want a free night with a view, or a day spent beside clear water in a beech forest, this is the kind of place that justifies a detour.
Best visited during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is most reliable. The campsite operates on a first-come, first-served basis year-round, though conditions and accessibility can vary seasonally.
Highlights
- Free camping on Lake Ohau with no booking required, first-come first-served
- Native beech forest backdrop and clear alpine lake views
- Swimming possible in the lake
- Basic toilet facilities provided
- Quieter and less crowded than other lakes in the region
Good to know
The campsite is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance booking needed. Basic facilities include toilets, but there is no drinking water or powered sites. Summer months (December to February) offer the most reliable weather for camping and water activities. The site is accessible by car.
You might also like
Questions people ask
Is Round Bush Campsite free?
Yes, it is completely free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no booking required.
What facilities are available?
There are basic toilet facilities, but no drinking water, shops, or powered campervan sites.
When is the best time to visit?
The summer months from December to February offer the best weather for camping and lake activities, though the campsite is open year-round.
Attributes & facilities
Facilities
Experience
Other
Last verified: August 24, 2026