Picnic Bay Campsite

Located in Pelorus Sound/Te Hoiere and Kenepuru Sound area in the Marlborough region

This is a scenic area with walking, sea kayaking, motor boating, kayaking, fishing and bird watching.
Check road conditions

Recent severe weather has damaged many roads in the Marlborough Sounds. Before you travel to our facilities, check the latest road updates on the Marlborough District Council website.

Fees

  • Adult (18+ years): $10 per night
  • Child (5–17 years): $5 per night
  • Infant (0–4 years): free

Passes

The DOC Campsite Pass can be used at this campsite. 

Bookings

Bookings are open for stays up to 30 June 2026.

If there is no availability showing online for your dates, the campsite is fully booked. No sites are held for campers turning up on the day without a booking.

Advance bookings are required throughout the 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.

Turn off Queen Charlotte Drive at Linkwater into Kenepuru Rd and follow 2 km past Portage.

Narrow, winding road.

Location

NZTM2000: E1687688, N5439092
Latitude: -41.19527845, Longitude: 174.04645666

Camp rules

  • All groups must include a responsible adult 18+.
  • Quiet hours are from 9.30 pm – 6.30 am.
  • Generators allowed from 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm only.
  • Music players must be used with headphones or played at a level not audible to neighbouring campsites.

Water safety

If you plan to enjoy the water, learn how to stay safe when swimming, boating and fishing.