Four relaxing campgrounds in Selwyn

Life is better when we get to spend time with family and friends away from the bustle of a busy life. Break out the deck of cards, or the guitar, blow up the lilo and enjoy the peace and quiet camping brings.

With summer here, we’ve compiled a quick list of campgrounds to check out in Selwyn. There are plenty more that can be found here.

LAKE PEARSON (MOANA RUA) CAMPSITE

State Highway 73, Craigieburn 

No dogs permitted

This Department of Conservation managed campsite is the perfect place for birdwatching with the rare Southern Crested Grebe/Kamana making its home on these shores.

Nestled underneath mature willow trees, this campground offers plenty of shade and a relaxing secluded spot to escape to. There are basic public toilets, 20 non powered tent sites - however there is not potable water available.

And with modest prices, adults from $10 per night, children from $5 per night, there’s no reason as to why this shouldn’t be one of your top camping spots this summer!

We highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for a quieter camping experience, and for those keen birdwatchers among us!

LAKESIDE DOMAIN 

Timber Yard Road, Lakeside

dog-friendly, off-leash permitted

This is a designated freedom campground that the whole family can join in on, even the dog! Welcome off leash if they are under effective control, it means you don’t have to find a boarding kennel this time of year to be able to enjoy some time away.

Set on the banks of the Te Waihora/Lake Ellesmere shore, this campground looks out over the estuary to the Port Hills and Southern Alps. Start every day here with beautiful views.

Lakeside Domain offers boating, fishing, picnic areas, bird watching, mountain-biking, and many walking trails surrounding the area. Make sure to check the weather forecast as this area can be exposed to wind. 

COES FORD RESERVE 

Pannetts Road, Springston

dog-friendly, off-leash permitted

Another beautiful, designated freedom campground where you can pitch a tent or park the family campervan is Coes Ford Reserve, which is set either side of the Selwyn River.

This is a fantastic location to go swimming and throw some sticks in the water for the dog. And when you’ve used up all your energy, why not take some time to unwind and fish, or sit down to have a picnic.

So, what more can you ask for from a fishing and camping trip? Rally up your friends and fishing rods and be sure to bring some fresh fish back home.

WHITECLIFFS DOMAIN 

Hartleys Road, Whitecliffs

dog-friendly, off-leash permitted

A popular camping spot for many generations that meanders along the upper Selwyn River.  The reserve offers activities such as fishing, swimming, picnicking, casual recreation, and bird watching.

Set on a strip of river terrace with mature trees, there are plenty of great shady spots to relax under.  When the temperatures reach peak in Selwyn, this might be the perfect place to camp!

This campground is clean, peaceful, and secluded. Given that most of us like to camp to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, this is a perfect spot to retreat to.