Routeburn Flats Campsite

Overview

A classic first-night stop on the Routeburn Track, Routeburn Flats Campsite sits on wide, grassy river flats with mountain views. It’s walk-in only and feels blissfully simple: pitch your tent, watch the light rake across the valley, and listen for wildlife at dusk.

Getting There

• From Routeburn Shelter (near Glenorchy): about 7.5 km in 1 hr 30 min–2 hr 30 min on a well‑graded track.
• The shelter is road‑accessed; the last stretch to the road end includes partially unsealed driving.

Facilities & Rules

• Non‑flush/pit toilets and an on‑site water tank; treat or boil before drinking.
• A basic covered cooking/picnic shelter with benches/sink and picnic tables is commonly available, but arrive self‑sufficient in case it’s busy.
• Bring your own tent, sleeping gear, stove, and cookware. Campers may not use hut facilities.
• No fires. No vehicle access; tent sites only.
• DOC advises choosing open sites—don’t camp under trees.
• A DOC ranger is based at the nearby hut during the Great Walks season and checks tickets, shares conditions, and helps in emergencies.

Season, Bookings & Fees

• Great Walks season: November 1, 2025–April 30, 2026. Bookings required.
• Per person, per night in season: NZ adult $28; international adult $42; NZ child (5–17) $14; international child (0–17) $21; infants (0–4) free.
• Outside the main season (e.g., Jul 1–Oct 31, 2025 and May 1–Jun 30, 2026): adults $10; children $5; infants free. The DOC Campsite Pass is not valid here.

What It’s Like

Expect a spacious, open glade beside the river with easy tent spots and big-sky sunrise views. It’s popular because it’s the first comfortable stop from the Glenorchy side—close enough for a mellow overnight, far enough to feel properly out there.

Safety & Conditions

• Weather turns quickly year‑round; carry warm layers, rain gear, extra food, headlamp, and a reliable emergency option (PLB recommended).
• Winter/shoulder months (May–late Oct) bring alpine conditions; avalanche risk can extend higher on the track even into early summer.
• Cell coverage is patchy to non‑existent along much of the Routeburn.

Easy Add‑Ons

• From camp, the climb toward Routeburn Falls Hut makes a rewarding side trip (about 2.3 km/1–1.5 hr one way) for bigger views before returning to your tent or continuing the track.

Best Time to Visit

• Go during the Great Walks season for the most reliable conditions, a staffed hut, and fully maintained facilities.
• For photography and quiet, plan to arrive mid‑afternoon and catch first light—several reviewers rave about the early morning views across the flats.