White Horse Hill Campsite

White Horse Hill is one of the most spectacular campsite locations in New Zealand, if not the world. Sitting at 760 metres in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, you camp beneath the towering Southern Alps with views of glaciers, alpine valleys, and New Zealand’s highest peak right from your tent.

The DOC campground has around 100 unpowered sites with flush toilets, hot showers, camp kitchen, drinking water, and gas BBQs. Sites suit tents and smaller campervans, with some tent-only areas. No pets allowed. A camping self-containment (CSC) certificate is required for campervans. The Hooker Valley Track, one of New Zealand’s most popular day walks, starts right from the campground.

Weather changes fast at this altitude. Even in summer, nights are cold and nor’west winds can blow hard without warning. Pack warm layers, a sturdy tent, and be prepared for rain any time of year. Kea (alpine parrots) are regular camp visitors and will investigate anything left unattended. At $15 per adult and $7.50 per child per night, White Horse Hill books out quickly, so reserve your spot well in advance.