About the Camp

Rakaia Gorge Campground 1977

Rakaia Gorge Campground 2021

Rakaia Gorge Society Incorporated

Formed on the 9th of October 1997 by 16 members essentially as a fishing and jet boater's camping ground to provide safe, comfortable camping facilities for members and the public wishing to stay within the camping grounds. The Camp has grown over the years to 58 permanent sites but still accommodates a large turnover of casual visitors each year. The grounds are leased from the Ashburton District Council and the staff keep the ground and facilities in immaculate condition.

All permanent site holders are members of the society and contribute to the camp by paying yearly fees, maintaining the immaculate standard of the camp, standing on the committee, and most importantly providing the atmosphere, one of the camps' most attractive features.

The society opened an Ablution block in 2006 which overlooks the river and offers a kitchen shelter, laundry, toilets and hot showers for it's members and casual visitors.

The camp has no power and poor mobile coverage (recent rumours are that this may improve soon). However being disconnected often turns out to be an attraction, with members and visitors enjoying the good old days of talking to your neighbours, playing card games, enjoying the outdoors, and viewing some of the most magnificent night skies.

The society operates an Open Season from October to April where the full campground is open. A closed Season where the main camp is closed off but the public toilets remain open. Campers can use the front camp sites along the driveway for a cheaper rate. The camp operates an honesty box for the winter period and the society would like to thank those Kiwi campers who are honest and pay. (There is no freedom camping allowed on the grounds).