Reids Farm Recreation Reserve
A popular free freedom camping spot on the Waikato River, offering scenic views and proximity to Taupō's attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beautiful foggy views
Reids Farm Recreation Reserve
Best Time
Beautiful foggy views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A popular free freedom camping spot on the Waikato River, offering scenic views and proximity to Taupō's attractions.
"Stunning location by the river, three toilets without flush but decent. A tap to wash dishes is available too."
🚗 Rough Car Park
The car park can be rough in places, so drive carefully. :car:
🚽 Toilet Choice
Long-drop toilets are often described as 'gross'; portaloos are a better, though not perfect, alternative. :toilet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Riverside Camping
Along the Waikato River
Enjoy free overnight camping with scenic river views, perfect for waking up to misty mornings.
Proximity to Attractions
Near Taupō City
Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Taupō city and close to the famous Huka Falls.
Daytime Picnic Spot
Waikato River banks
A beautiful spot for a daytime picnic with good facilities, though it can get crowded during holidays.
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Planning Your Visit
Freedom Camping & Facilities
Best Time for Scenery & Solitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rough Car Park
The car park can be rough in places, so drive carefully.
:car:🚽 Toilet Choice
Long-drop toilets are often described as 'gross'; portaloos are a better, though not perfect, alternative.
:toilet:💧 Dishwashing Tap
A tap is available for washing dishes, a useful amenity for campers.
:droplet:🎶 Music Levels
Be aware that people may play loud music, so it might not be ideal for quiet meditation.
:musical_note:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rough Car Park
The car park can be rough in places, so drive carefully.
:car:🚽 Toilet Choice
Long-drop toilets are often described as 'gross'; portaloos are a better, though not perfect, alternative.
:toilet:💧 Dishwashing Tap
A tap is available for washing dishes, a useful amenity for campers.
:droplet:🎶 Music Levels
Be aware that people may play loud music, so it might not be ideal for quiet meditation.
:musical_note:🧼 Keep it Clean
As a free and beautiful spot, visitors are urged to keep the area clean.
:sparkles:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Reids Farm Recreation Reserve is a highly praised free camping spot offering beautiful riverside views and a convenient location near Taupō. Visitors appreciate the ample space and natural setting, though some note the facilities are basic and the car park can be rough. It's a popular choice, often filling up quickly, and can sometimes be noisy due to music.
"Lots of room for free overnight campers. Cars, tents, self contained all allowed.
Lovely views, very cold in winter so beautiful foggy mornings. Long drop toilets are so gross don't even bother. (Flies will literally attack your butt lol) Portaloos much better, not perfect but very good for a free campsite!"
Eden Barr
"Stunning location by the river, three toilets without flush but decent. A tap to wash dishes is available too. You can't camp overnight at this site but it's beautiful during the day time. Not very far from Huka Falls and about a 10 min drive to Taupō city. Must visit if you're around."
Alfred Aquino
"Hipapatua Recreational Reserve is a fantastic spot for freedom camping, offering plenty of space and a beautiful riverside setting. However, it’s very popular, often filling up quickly since it's the only free site nearby. The car park is rough in places, so drive carefully. Despite this, it's a peaceful and scenic retreat!"
Tomo Wato
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reids Farm Recreation Reserve is conveniently located about a 10-minute drive from Taupō city. Follow the signs for Huka Falls, as it's in the same general vicinity.
Information on public transport to Reids Farm is limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle, especially if you plan to camp or explore the surrounding areas.
The car park and access road to Reids Farm can be rough in places. Visitors are advised to drive carefully, especially in larger vehicles or caravans.
Yes, Reids Farm is very close to the popular Huka Falls and within easy driving distance of other Taupō attractions like the Māori Rock Carvings and thermal spas.
While Reids Farm is on the Waikato River, access by kayak or boat is more for enjoying the river itself rather than reaching the campsite directly. Kayaking tours often depart from Taupō to see sights like the Māori Rock Carvings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Reids Farm Recreation Reserve is a free camping and day-use area. It's a popular freedom camping spot, so it's appreciated if visitors help keep it clean.
Reids Farm is generally accessible for day use and overnight camping. However, it's important to note that it is now primarily for day use, with overnight camping restrictions potentially in place.
No booking is required for camping at Reids Farm, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It's a very popular spot and can fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Reids Farm welcomes cars, tents, and self-contained vehicles for camping. However, the rough car park may pose challenges for very large or low-clearance vehicles.
Facilities include long-drop toilets, portaloos, and a tap for washing dishes. There are no flush toilets or showers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Reids Farm offers a beautiful riverside setting and can be peaceful, especially during winter mornings. However, it can also be lively and busy, with music sometimes played loudly, particularly during holidays.
While Reids Farm is located on the Waikato River, swimming conditions can vary. It's advisable to check local conditions and be aware of currents before entering the water.
Visitors can enjoy picnicking, relaxing by the river, and using the area as a base for exploring nearby attractions like Huka Falls. It's also a popular spot for freedom camping.
Yes, Reids Farm offers lovely riverside scenery, especially during foggy mornings in winter, making it a picturesque location for photography.
Reids Farm is very popular and often fills up quickly, especially during holiday seasons and weekends. Weekdays and off-peak times are generally less crowded.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Reids Farm. Visitors should bring their own food and drinks for picnics or meals.
The nearest town with grocery stores is Taupō, which is about a 10-minute drive away.
While there are no designated BBQ facilities, visitors are generally permitted to use portable BBQs, provided they are used safely and responsibly, and all waste is removed.
Yes, there is a tap available for washing dishes, which is a convenient amenity for campers.
Taupō offers a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to more upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Winter mornings offer beautiful foggy views along the river, creating a serene and atmospheric photographic opportunity.
You can capture picturesque riverside landscapes, misty mornings, and the general natural beauty of the Waikato River.
The main draw for photography is the scenic riverbank. The entire area offers pleasant views, especially during the quieter times of day.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. For landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can be useful to capture the expanse of the river and surrounding nature.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Department of Conservation regarding any restrictions on drone operation in recreational reserves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing portable entertainment as facilities are basic. The portaloos are generally better than the long-drops for younger children. Packing plenty of food and snacks is essential, as dining options are limited to Taupō city. The rough car park might require extra caution with younger children.
💰 Budget Travelers
While free, remember to factor in costs for food, fuel, and any paid attractions nearby. The basic facilities mean you'll need to be self-sufficient with cooking and sanitation. It's a great way to experience New Zealand's natural beauty without breaking the bank.
🚗 Road Trippers & Van Lifers
Be aware that it's a day-use area now for overnight stays, and it fills up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day or on weekdays is recommended for securing a spot. Ensure your vehicle is suitable for potentially rougher car park conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Freedom Camping at Reids Farm
While the setting is idyllic, the facilities are basic. The reserve offers long-drop toilets, which some visitors find unpleasant, and a tap for dishwashing. Many campers prefer the available portaloos. Despite these basic amenities, the stunning natural beauty and the ability to camp for free make it a compelling option for travelers exploring the Taupō region.
It's crucial for campers to practice Leave No Trace principles. As a free resource, maintaining its cleanliness is a shared responsibility. Visitors are encouraged to keep the area tidy and pack out all rubbish to preserve this beautiful spot for future use.
Exploring the Waikato River
For those interested in experiencing the river more actively, options like kayaking are available from nearby Taupō. These tours often highlight the region's unique natural and cultural landmarks, such as the impressive Māori Rock Carvings, which are only visible from the water.
The river's presence contributes significantly to the scenic appeal of Reids Farm, making it a tranquil escape. The gentle flow and surrounding natural environment create a peaceful atmosphere, particularly during the quieter hours of the day or in the early morning mist.
Proximity to Taupō's Attractions
Nearby, the iconic Huka Falls are a must-see, offering a dramatic display of the Waikato River's power. Reids Farm serves as an excellent base for visiting these natural wonders, as well as other attractions in the Taupō area.
Travelers can also easily reach other points of interest from Reids Farm, including thermal spas like Wairakei Terraces and the unique Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō, making it a convenient hub for experiencing the diverse offerings of the North Island.
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