Hot Water Beach Campsite
Located in Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve in the Bay of Plenty region
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Introduction
Relax in the natural hot springs in Te Rātā Bay. Enjoy water sports or explore the tracks in other areas around Lake Tarawera.Access
- Boat
- Foot
Landscape
- Rivers and lakes
Facilities
- Non-powered/tent sites
- Shelter for cooking
- Toilets - non-flush
Seasonal restrictions
Fires are not permitted at any time. See fire rules on conservation land.
Dog access
This is a popular campsite on the Tarawera Trail.
Fees
- Adult (18+ years): $15 per night
- Child (5–17 years): $7.50 per night
- Infant (0–4 years): free
Passes
The DOC Campsite Pass cannot be used at this campsite.
Campsite Pass bookings must be booked online before occupying a site. If you do not book, bookings may be made by campground staff (if present) and will incur a $10 service charge. Sites may not be available if you do not book.
Bookings
Bookings are open for stays up to 30 June 2025.
All bookings are first-come first-served. We do not have waiting lists for bookings for future seasons or facilities that are already booked-out.
Online bookings are required all year.
A $10 service fee applies to phone and in-person booking. This is a limited service – book online first. An in-person booking is dependent on there being space available.
Access by boat (water taxis are available) or walk in via the Tarawera Trail. Find commercial operators for Lake Tarawera Scenic Reserve.
Tracks to this campsite
Location
NZTM2000 coordinates: E1900487, N5761583
Latitude: -38.24410046, Longitude: 176.43375623
Be careful of patches of hot sand at the beach and scalding water areas within the foreshore of the camp.
Lakeshore mooring posts are limited.
This campsite is very popular
This campsite is extremely popular during the summer months. If you are planning a trip at this time, have a back-up option in case Hot Water Beach Campsite is full.
Water
Do not use water from the lake near the beach or stream for drinking or food preparations. The water may contain the naturally occurring chemical arsenic, found in volcanic and geothermal areas.
Water collected from the main part of the lake could contain other contaminants and must be boiled for drinking. It is recommended you bring your own water.
Rockfall risk
Due to the ongoing risk of rockfall, campsites 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 are closed to camping. Danger signs have been placed to warn against entering this hazard area of the camp. The beachfront is the safest way between camp and thermal pools.
The rest of the campground remains open for bookings.
Dogs are not allowed in areas administered by DOC in the Rotorua area.
Water safety
If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.
Contacts
| Booking office contact | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 7 867 9080 |
| kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| DOC Customer Service Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0800 275 362 |
| rotorua@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | DOC offices |