Rakaia Gorge Camping Ground sits beside the Rakaia River beneath the dramatic cliffs of the gorge, on the Inland Scenic Route in Canterbury's Mid Canterbury region.

Operated by the Rakaia Gorge Society Incorporated — formed in 1997 originally as a fishing and jet-boating camp — the grounds are leased from the Ashburton District Council and have grown to include 58 permanent sites alongside casual visitor accommodation.

The campground is a first-come, first-served, basic facility site with no bookings accepted. It operates a full open season from October through to Anzac Day in April, with limited winter access available via an honesty-box arrangement.

The surrounding area offers several walking tracks, including the 9. 8 km Rakaia Gorge Walkway, as well as fishing in the ever-changing glacial river. Reviewers on Rankers rate it 4.

6 from 115 reviews, reflecting its popularity as a peaceful, scenic base in the Canterbury high country.