Camping In Milford Sound: The Best Campsites & Campervan Parks

If you’re heading out all the way to Milford Sound good chance you’ll want to stay overnight. Though, unless you have big bucks to splash out, you’re more likely to be looking at camping in Milford Sound.

Okay, it’s been a long day driving to Milford Sound, with plenty of epic stops along the way. After all that, there’s no way you want to drive all the way back to Te Anau, let alone Queenstown!

So, what are your options when it comes to camping in Milford Sound?

I visited Milford Sound while road-tripping around the South Island in a campervan, staying at Rainforest Campervan Park and checking out several of the DOC campgrounds along the Milford Road.

If your budget allows, I highly recommend Rainforest Campervan Park in Milford Sound Township. It’s about as close as you can get to staying beside the fiord, with modern facilities and an incredibly convenient location. Just make sure you book ahead, as it can sell out well in advance.

There are also several cheaper DOC campgrounds along the drive, including both paid and free options. So, let’s get into the best places for camping in Milford Sound and which one I’d choose.

If you’re still on the fence about visiting, have a read of my guide on whether Milford Sound is worth it before deciding where to stay.

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Map Of Camping Sites Around Milford Sound

Below you’ll find a map of all the sites you may be keen to check out while camping in Milford Sound:

As you can see, they’re quite spread out along the highway. So take into account how close to the Milford Sound Basin you’d like to be.

One of the best things about staying along the Milford Road is that you can spread out the sightseeing, stopping at places like Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, and Monkey Creek without feeling rushed.

For example, you may have an early morning boat cruise booked.

These campgrounds are split into two separate categories: either private or DOC campsites.

Check out my guide on driving from Queenstown to Milford Sound before deciding where to camp.

Private Campsites In Milford Sound

Now, you’ll find plenty of private campsites around New Zealand, though not too many on the way to Milford Sound, unfortunately.

This is mainly because you do pay, sometimes quite a bit, to park up here in your camper or set up a tent. There’ll be plenty of facilities onsite for cooking, hot showers, and my personal fav, electricity.

However, Milford Sound is actually quite out of the way, and it’s pretty mountainous in parts. This means getting supplies, including electricity, isn’t as easy as you’d think.

For now, there’s only 2 private campsites between Te Anau and Milford Sound.

1. Rainforest Campervan Park #1 For Campervans

⭐️ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: Milford Sound | 🏩 Check Rates and Availability

Okay so I’m not going to lie, I do really love Rainforest Campervan Park. Having stayed here a couple of different times, it is on the pricey side but worth every dollar.

The location is freakin fantastic. You’re just a few minutes from the Milford Sound Basin, right amongst nature, and there’s a lovely walking track to the township along the river if you’re keen to stretch those legs.

It’s a pretty quiet place with only 24 campervans at a time. The sites are also nicely spaced out with lots of greenery, giving you some privacy.

Campervan powered site.
Well.. the shared facilities were one of the best we have used! Waking up to waterfalls.. it was spectacular! Multiple cooking and cleaning areas, folks cleanup after themselves which is awesome and the meal places were in abundance and very comfortable. Showers area were very clean, could use a hairdryer. Laundry facilities were great.

-SHERMS (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

Pros:

• Awesome Modern Kitchen Facilities
• Clean Bathrooms
• Quiet Location (24 Powered Sites)
• Free Wifi
• Perfect Location

Cons:

• Expensive $120.00 per night
• Campervans only, no tents or rooftop tents
• Need To Book Far In Advance

Even though it’s expensive, I’d stay here again in a heartbeat. Waking up already in Milford Sound before the tour buses arrive was honestly worth paying extra for, especially since we had an early cruise booked.

Since you’re staying right in the township, it’s easy to see Bowen Falls or explore some of the other best waterfalls in Milford Sound before the day-trippers arrive. The Milford Sound Swing is also a must!

Looking for a bit of luxury? They also offer full board chalet packages starting from $600.00 per night. You can find out more here.

2. Eglinton Valley Camp

⭐️ Rating: 4.6 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 6178 Te Anau Milford Highway, Fiordland National Park | 🏩 Check Rates and Availability

Next up, well really your only other option for a private campsite, is Eglinton Valley Camp.

If you do decide this is the place for you, you’ll be about 1 hour each direction to Milford Sound and Te Anau. It makes for a perfect stop if you aren’t keen on a super long drive.

You’ll be smack bang in the middle of Fiordland National Park, surrounded by forests and hiking tracks. Upper Eglinton sits right in the heart of Eglinton Valley, one of the most underrated sections of the Milford Road.

It really is a special part of the country here, and cause there’s not much else around, it’s a dark sky area, perfect for stargazing at its best.

We had booked a room for two nights but we could’ve stayed so much longer! The area is off the grid and so nice. So many hiking options available and only an hours drive to Milford Sound.

-CELINA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

In terms of accommodation, you have self contained cabins and tent/campervan sites.

In the self contained cabins, you’ll have power, heating, and a comfortable bed for the night. The tent/campervan sites are all unpowered, so you’ll need to be able to get through the night without any heating.

Pros:

• Self Contained Cabins
• Dark Sky Area For Star Gazing
• Affordable Private Camp Option
• Small Store At Reception
• Cute Bush Bath Experience Available To Book

Cons:

• Camp/Tent Sites Have No Power
• No Wifi
• No Pets Due To Being In A National Park
• Sand Flies

Just remember to bring enough food/drink with you as there’s no restaurant onsite and the closest grocery store is an hour away in Te Anau.

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DOC Campsites On The Te Anau / Milford Highway

Now, if you are keen on nature and happy with a no frills experience, then staying at a DOC (Department of Conservation) Campsite may be perfect.

Many of these camp sites are set in the most beautiful settings, surrounded by the incredible sights of Fiordland National Park.

However, because you’ll be staying in a National Park, there’s no pets are allowed, even on a leash.

Lastly, one more thing to be aware of is that the sandflies here on the Milford Sound Highway can be relentless and drive you absolutely crazy. This is pretty standard in this part of the country since there’s no such thing as perfection.

If this has completely put you off the idea, then you may be better off staying at Rainforest Campervan Park, where I had no sandfly issues, or back in Te Anau.

3. Cascade Creek Campsite

⭐️ Rating: 4.2 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 75km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

Our first DOC Campsite is the largest one available on the road to Milford Sound, and is quite popular in the camper community in New Zealand. There’s 120 sites here, which, yes, sounds like a lot, but it does sell out in summer.

Also, since it’s the closest DOC site to Milford Sound township, it is an affordable way to stay as close as possible without breaking the bank.

This campsite is perfect for campervans, caravans, and even large motorhomes with its large flat spaces. There’s also some lovely tent sites backing onto the bush, just prepare for the sandflies cause they’re quite full on here.

A very expansive DOC campsite. Great if you’ve got a campervan or motorhome as theres plenty of park up area. If you’re looking for a tent site, you’ll need to search around a little more, but there are good sites available.

-ANDREW (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

It’s $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child each night (under 4’s are free). If you also have a DOC Campsite Pass, this is accepted here. You’ll def want to book in advance in summer.

In terms of facilities, you’ll have non flush toilets, water from a nearby river which needs to be treated, a cooking shelter, picnic tables, and some sites also have fire pits.

If I wasn’t staying in Milford Sound itself, this is probably the DOC campground I’d choose. It’s close enough that you don’t have an early start, but a fraction of the price.

On the drive between Cascade Creek and Milford Sound you’ll pass Monkey Creek, one of my favourite quick roadside stops.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Close To Milford Sound
• Level & Large Sites
• Plenty Of Nearby Walks (Key Summit Track, Lake Marian Hike, and Gertrude Valley).

Cons:

• No Water Taps
• Non Flush Toilet & Lots Of Flies
• Can Get Super Busy

4. Upper Eglinton Campsite

⭐️ Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 68km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

Next up, we have the Upper Eglinton Campsite. Though quick heads up before you get too invested it’s really only suitable for tents as the spaces available are too small for campers.

Now, we’ve got that out of the way, this spot for sure has some of the best views to offer when camping in Milford Sound.

This would be my pick if you care more about scenery than facilities. Waking up surrounded by mountains here would be pretty special.

Small campsite. There’s a really friendly Weka that lives here, so make sure to keep their home clean!

-Joaquin (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

Now there is the standard DOC fee of $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child each night (under 4’s are free). They’ll also accept the DOC Campsite Pass.

Pros:

• Limited Sites- Doesn’t Get Crowded
• Plenty Of Walks Around (Earl Mountain tracks & Mistake Creek track)
• Affordable Option
• Picnic Tables & Fire Pits

Cons:

• Sand Flies!!
• No Water Taps
• Non Flush Toilets

5. Kiosk Creek

⭐️ Rating: 4.2 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 63km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

Now, this spot is a bit of a small gem with damn epic views and a good number of sites. Also you’ll be able to get your camper in so no need to whip that tent out!

There’s only 10 sites available so it’s very much a first in first served situation. Though for those who get a spot will be rewarded with beautiful valley views.

Also if you enjoy a spot of fly fishing the Eglinton River just across the campsite and has a few great place to fish from.

Very nice views, convenient location if you are planning to visit Milford sound the next day – but paying $18pp for a paddock and a drop toilet w/o a tap to fill a saucepan to boil is a bit rough.

-DYLAN (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

Okay okay, obviously that review doesnt realise thats essentially the standard price for DOC campsites in NZ so take what they say with a grain of salt.

Once again its the standard DOC fee of $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child each night with under 4’s being free. They also accept the DOC Campsite Pass.

Now we all know long drop toilet situations aren’t the greatest, and yup, unfortunately you’ll find thats what you have here.

However, just 1 minute up the road is Knobs Flat with their public flush toilets!

Pros:

• Quieter Campsite
• Affordable
• Great Birdlife
• Flush Toilet Nearby

Cons:

• Sand Flies!! Yes, this is a common theme, they’re everywhere!
• No Water Taps
• Non Flush Toilets Onsite

6. Henry Creek Campsite

⭐️ Rating: 4.2 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 23km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

So Henry Creek Campsite is actually the closest one to Te Anau. Though it’s not missing out on that Milford Sound magic, thankfully. This is actually many people’s favorite spots!

Its located right on the edge of the beautiful Lake Te Anau, which is a must see for sunrise and sunset. If you’re brave you can go for a wee swim, though I’m telling you now it’ll be cold, especially if you’re visiting in winter!

This is an excellent choice if you’re traveling by campervan as the sites are large and theres a bunch depending on what you’re wanting.

E.g. something tucked away under the trees or something more open.

My favourite camp-site of the whole trip. Not saying I did a lot but I found this to be beautiful, comfortable, close to the lake. Definitely my first choice next time.

-ROGER (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

Since it’s located on a pebbly lakeshore it isn’t the most comfortable ground for pitching a tent. You’ll be hard stretched to find a soft surface without rocks digging into you.

This is def one of those campgrounds you’ll want to book in advance as it does sell out, especially in the high season.

It’s the same price as all the other DOC campsites of $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child with under 4’s being free. DOC Campsite Passes are also accepted here.

I wouldn’t stay here if I had an early Milford Sound cruise, but it’s a great option if you’re breaking up the drive or exploring more of Fiordland.

Pros:

• Lakeside Views
• Great For Campervans
• Swimming Spot
• Affordable

Cons:

• Can Get Busy
• Crowds = Messy Long Drop Toilets
• No Tap Water
• Sand Flies

7. Deer Flat Campsite

⭐️ Rating: 4.2 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 62km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

Deer Flats is another gorgeous DOC campsite located off the Milford Sound Highway. It’s a popular choice with those who know, but with only 15 spots it never gets too crazy.

If you get there early enough some of the sites have picnic tables which is always a lovely addition when you’re camping.

It’s another spot where you can try out your fly fishing skills, otherwise you can always watch the other campers try their luck.

One of my favorite DOC camps I’ve found. Only a few camp spots & I managed to get the one with a bbq table, next to the river & swim hole, & close to the loo (very clean not smelly long drop). Sooooooo peaceful edge of the earth kind of camping.

-THERESA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

Now there’s the standard $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child with under 4’s being free for the DOC fee. Otherwise if you hold a DOC Campsite pass they are also accepted.

It’s worth noting if you’re visiting after heavy rain… and it does rain a lot in Milford Sound. This is one of the places which is known to flood, which lets be honest isn’t fun when camping.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Swimming Hole Nearby
• Fly Fishing
• Cell Reception With OneNZ

Cons:

• No Tap Water – Can Collect & Treat From River
• Non Flush Toilets
• No Pets Due To Being In A National Park
• Sand Flies
• Has Known Mice Issues

8. Walker Creek Campsite

⭐️ Rating: 4.2 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 47km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

For another small but mighty campsite in Milford Sound we have Walker Creek. With only 5 unpowered spots available, you definitely won’t find this place getting too crowded.

However it’s worth noting that if you have quite a large camper you may be best to give it a miss. There’s quite a tight turning area which is much better suited for vans

Magnificent place. Flowers, river and mountains. Great!

-PIOTR (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

You’ll find the trees provide a lot of shelter here, but in return you do miss out on a lot of the views you’ll find elsewhere.

Though if you happen to be visiting in Lupin season, December – Janurary, Walker Creek gets absolutely covered in them! Its a beautiful sight of purple and pinks.

Now in terms of price it’s $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child (under 4’s free). DOC Campsite Passes are also accepted here.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Beautiful During Lupin Season
• Small Campsite
• Sheltered

Cons:

• Minimal Views
• Non Flush Toilets
• No Tap Water
• Sand Flies

9. Totara Campsite

⭐️ Rating: 4.1 out of 5 Stars | 📍 Location: 50km From Te Anau | 🏩 Check Rates and Book |⛺️ Sleeping Situation: Unpowered Sites | 🐶 Pet Friendly: No

This is the 2nd largest campground on the way to Milford Sound with 20 sites available.

About 10 of these sites are suitable for campervans and the other 10 are best off for tents. Some of the spots are nicely sheltered as well, perfect if the weather isn’t the best.

It’s a popular option, especially due to the fact this is one which is known to be in cell phone reception. Something which is a bit of a rarity out these ways.

The campsite is beautiful, quiet between river and forrest. Slightly overpriced, very basic. Good stop in the way to Milford Sound, takes about 1:15 depending in how busy it gets at the tunnel

-CHRISTINA (SEE MORE REVIEWS)

Now there does seem to be an ongoing mouse issue at some of the DOC campsites in Milford Sound, and this one is no exception. Just something to be aware of.

It’s the same price as all the other DOC campsites of $18.00 per adult, and $9.00 per child with under 4’s being free. DOC Campsite Passes are also accepted here.

Pros:

• Cell Phone Reception
• Fly Fishing
• Affordable
• 2nd Largest Campsite In Area

Cons:

• Non Flush Toilets
• No Tap Water, But There Is The Creek
• Mouse Issues

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Tips For Staying In A Campsite In Milford Sound

Okay even if you’ve camped elsewhere in New Zealand before, down here in Milford Sound has its own lil quirks to be prepared for.

No Dogs: Basically since the entire highway to Milford Sound is within Fiordland National Park, you wont be able to bring dogs with you. Even if they’re on leash, they simply can’t come into the area.

Prepare For Sandflies: In case I didn’t make it obvious enough THE SANDFLIES ARE HELL! No but seriously, I’ve never experienced anything like this before. Bring that inscellent repellent, or maybe 2.

Check If You’ll Have Running Water: Basically if you’re staying at a DOC site this is unlikley but you’ll be allgoods if it’s a private campsite. Make sure to pack plenty of water if this is the case!

Bring Plenty Of Food: Things out this way in the country are limited! Like not even a cafe, which for a touristy spot is pretty damn crazy! Pack enough snacks and meals to keep you fueled.

Make Sure To Have Enough Petrol: On the topic of fuel, or petrol here in NZ, you’ll need it. Basically no matter what just full up in Te Anau, you don’t want any extra stress!

Book In Advance During The High Season: November through to February is what we’d consider the high season here. Places get booked up well in advance, oh and private campsites MONTHS in advance!

Things To Do Around Milford Sound

Of course, you aren’t heading ALL the way out here just to camp. Let’s look at some of the things to do around Milford Sound:

Milford Sound Cruises: Seriously, you can’t travel all the way here without doing a Milford Sound cruise. You’ll get a better look at the landscapes, crazy waterfalls, and the resident wildlife.

Scenic Flights: Seriously, if I could, I would, but your girls on a budget. This will allow you to check out some epic aerial views of the area and mountains. Generally, these flights head off from Queenstown or Te Anau and are sooooo worth it.

Visit The Lord Of The Rings Locations: Fans of the movies can also check out several Lord of the Rings filming locations around Fiordland and Milford Sound. Some are quick roadside stops, making them easy to visit while driving between your campground and the fiord.

Check Out The Waterfalls: Milford Sound is famous for its waterfalls, especially after heavy rain when hundreds begin pouring down the cliffs. Make sure you check out my guide to the best waterfalls in Milford Sound, including the mighty Bowen Falls right beside the township.

Hiking: Now, Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park are home to some of the best walks in the entire country! The Milford Track is one of the most famous and takes about 4 days to complete.

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory: For a different perspective, visit the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory. Here you’ll go 10 meters below the surface to see the local black coral and marine life.

Find The Milford Sound Swing: For one of the best photo spots in the area, head down to the Milford Sound Swing. It has an incredible view across the water toward Mitre Peak, though it can be easy to miss if you don’t know where to look.

Wrap Up: Best Camping In Milford Sound

Okay, hopefully by now you’ve figured out exactly the best camping in Milford Sound option for you. Though if you’re still not sure take it back to budget…

Do you want a pricey private campsite with all the facilities or something basic but affordable?

Basically no matter where you stay the views will be amazing, and the sandflies will be driving you insane. It’s just up to you whether you’re keen on hot water and flushing toilets.