West Bay Campsite
West Bay Campsite comprises two seasonal camping zones (Jetty and Buller) located lakeside in Nelson Lakes National Park adjacent to Lake Rotoiti, approximately 3 km from St Arnaud village and 90 minutes from Nelson or Blenheim. Sites nestle within kanuka/manuka forest with a nearby boat launching ramp for water recreation. The campsite offers basic facilities without electrical hookups and operates under a pack-in, pack-out waste policy with no onsite rubbish collection. It provides an accessible base for lake activities, swimming, boating, and access to Nelson Lakes hiking trails. (via official site)
- boating
- water activities
- lake access
Rates & prices
Prices as published on West Bay Campsite’s official website (NZD).
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (18+) | NZD 20 per night |
| Children (5-17) | NZD 10 per night |
| Infants (0-4) | free |
| Phone or in-person booking service fee | NZD 10 |
Key facts
At-a-glance details for West Bay Campsite, from its official website.
Booking & season
Pitches & accommodation
Facilities & services
Location & access
Rules & policies
Opening hours & schedules
Reception, gate and facility hours for West Bay Campsite.
Facilities & details
Amenities and on-site features reported for West Bay Campsite.
Know before you go
Practical things to prepare for a trip to West Bay Campsite.
- Reserve ahead — this campground requires a booking.
- Dogs aren't allowed — arrange a sitter if you're travelling with a pet.
Location
Where West Bay Campsite sits on the map and how to get there.
Nearby cities & towns
Towns and cities closest to West Bay Campsite — browse campsites near each.
What’s nearby
Shops, drinking water, fuel and attractions within reach of the site.
🏞️ Attractions
waterfall in New Zealand
Pourangahau / Mount Robert is a 1,421-metre (4,662 ft) mountain in the Tasman District of New Zealand's South Island. It is within the Nelson Lakes National Park. For many years, Mount Robert formed part of landowner and politician John Kerr of Nelson's Lake Station, but was returned to the crown in the years following his death in 1898. The partially unsealed Mt Robert Road, just west of the town
🛒 Amenities & services
🛒 Groceries
- Saint Arnaud General Store
⛽ Fuel
- NPD
🍽️ Food & drink
- Elaine’s Cafe
- The Rainbow Cafe
- Lone Star Rib Shack
🚰 Drinking water
- Drinking water
🚻 Toilets & showers
- Public toilets
- Showers
🎾 Sports
- Lake Rotoiti School Pool
- Tennis
- Rainbow Ski Area
Weather
Current conditions and the forecast to help you plan your trip.
Best time to visit
Typical monthly temperature and rainfall at West Bay Campsite.
Good to know
Quick answers to common questions about West Bay Campsite.
When is West Bay Campsite open?
The Jetty zone is open 27 November to 30 April; the Buller zone is open 11 December to 30 March annually.
Can I make a same-day booking?
Yes, same-day bookings are available online until 8 pm if spaces remain. Book early for Christmas and Easter periods.
What time must I vacate my site on departure?
Sites must be vacated by 10 am on departure day.
Are domestic pets allowed?
No, domestic pets are not allowed at West Bay Campsite.
Are campfires permitted?
No, campfires and open fires are prohibited. Jet skis are also not permitted on the lake.
Do I need to book ahead for West Bay Campsite?
Yes, a reservation is required. You can check availability on the official website.
Can I bring an RV or caravan to West Bay Campsite?
Yes, caravans and RVs are welcome.
Can I pitch a tent at West Bay Campsite?
Yes, tent camping is allowed.
Is there drinking water at West Bay Campsite?
Yes, drinking water is available.
Are there toilets at West Bay Campsite?
Yes, toilets are available on site.
Are showers available at West Bay Campsite?
Yes, showers are available.
Are dogs allowed at West Bay Campsite?
No, dogs are not allowed.
Is West Bay Campsite wheelchair accessible?
Partially — wheelchair access is limited.
Who runs West Bay Campsite?
West Bay Campsite is operated by Department of Conservation.
What are the check-in and check-out times at West Bay Campsite?
At West Bay Campsite, check-out is by 10:00.
Documents & downloads
Price lists, brochures and info files from the official website for West Bay Campsite.
Reviews
Ratings, nightly prices and photos from people who’ve camped here.
No reviews yet — be the first!
Other campgrounds nearby
More places to camp close to West Bay Campsite.
- West Bay Campground (Buller) · Department of Conservation
- Teetotal Campsite · Department of Conservation
- Kerr Bay Campsite · Department of Conservation
- Angelus Hut Campsite
- Camp spot
- Hope Saddle Lookout