Is freedom camping allowed in New Zealand?

On most public land, yes, but each council sets its own rules and many sites are for certified self-contained vehicles only (with a fixed toilet). Fines are up to NZ$1,000. Check the council’s map or the sign at the site before you stay.

What is a DOC campsite?

The Department of Conservation runs over 300 campsites around New Zealand. Basic sites are free, standard and scenic sites charge a small fee per person a night, and the popular ones need booking in summer.

Can I camp for free in Australia?

Many rest areas, showgrounds and state forests allow free camping for a night or two. Rules differ by state and council, and some sites have a donation box. Leave no trace and use the toilets provided.

What is dispersed camping in the USA?

Camping outside a campground on national forest or Bureau of Land Management land, usually free for up to 14 days. There are no facilities, so bring water and pack out everything.

Free camping near me

Free and cheap places to camp near you, from DOC campsites and freedom camping spots in New Zealand to free camps in Australia. Check the rules on site: many free spots are for self-contained vehicles only.

Nearest to Columbus

Campground
Summer Camp Job
10 miDirections
Campground
Camp Mary-Orton
11 miDirections
Campground
Shagbark Grove Group Picnic Area
12 miDirections
Campground
Camp Ken-Jockety & Elam Environmental Center
13 miDirections
Campground
Jackson Lake Campground and Park
Toilets · Showers · Fire pits
15 miDirections
Campground
Camp Lazarus Boy Scout Reservation
19 miDirections
Campground
Alum Creek State Park Campground
19 miDirections
Campground
Equestrian Camp and Day Use
Equestrian Camp sites are primitive but restrooms are nearby. Bridle trails nearby. Reservations are required and may be made up to six months ahead. Tie lines, fire pits, picnic tables.
Toilets
23 miDirections
Campground · Paid
Campsite
24 miDirections
Campground
Campsite
25 miDirections
Campground
Junior Open Fair Camping Area
25 miDirections
Campground
Deer Creek State Park Campground
26 miDirections
Campground
Horseman's Camp
27 miDirections
Campground
Group Camping Area
27 miDirections
Campground
Lazy River at Granville
29 miDirections
Campground
Lazy River at Granville
29 miDirections
Campground
Recreation Unlimited
29 miDirections
Campground
Campsite
30 miDirections
Campground
Camp Marengo
31 miDirections
Campground
Geneva Hills
31 miDirections
Campground · Paid
Camp Akita
37 miDirections

From OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL), New Zealand's Department of Conservation (CC BY 4.0), Australia's National Public Toilet Map (CC BY 3.0 AU) and Roadtrip's own research. Check opening times and rules on site.

Good to know

Is freedom camping allowed in New Zealand?: On most public land, yes, but each council sets its own rules and many sites are for certified self-contained vehicles only (with a fixed toilet). Fines are up to NZ$1,000. Check the council’s map or the sign at the site before you stay.
What is a DOC campsite?: The Department of Conservation runs over 300 campsites around New Zealand. Basic sites are free, standard and scenic sites charge a small fee per person a night, and the popular ones need booking in summer.
Can I camp for free in Australia?: Many rest areas, showgrounds and state forests allow free camping for a night or two. Rules differ by state and council, and some sites have a donation box. Leave no trace and use the toilets provided.
What is dispersed camping in the USA?: Camping outside a campground on national forest or Bureau of Land Management land, usually free for up to 14 days. There are no facilities, so bring water and pack out everything.