Fiordland National Park Cascade Creek Campground
Cascade Creek hides 30 kilometers up the Cascade Creek Road in dense beech forest that feels like camping inside a green cathedral. The 15 sites sit among massive silver beech trees with Cascade Creek providing the soundtrack — a welcome change from tourist-packed Milford Sound campsites. What sets this place apart is the relative lack of sandflies thanks to elevation and forest cover, making it one of Fiordland’s most bearable car camping spots.
The gravel access road is rough but manageable for most vehicles — just take your time on the creek crossings after heavy rain. Open October through April, weather permitting. No bookings required but weekend spots fill with trampers heading to Routeburn or Hollyford tracks. Bring everything — the nearest supplies are back in Te Anau, 45 minutes away.
Sandfly refuge in beech cathedral
Place Details
| Type | Established Campground |
|---|---|
| Street address | Town Centre, Fiordland Community, Southland 9600, New Zealand Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 1200 ft |
| Nearest town | Te Anau, South Island |
| Miles from pavement | 18.6 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 15 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | $8.00 / night |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 28 nights |
| Best season | October-April |
| Land manager | Other |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Drinking water, Fire ring, Shade, Toilets |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |