About Lake Gunn Campsite
Lake Gunn Campsite sits in the heart of Fiordland National Park along the Milford Road, just 53 km from Te Anau. This DOC-managed site offers 55 tent sites amid beech forest beside the serene Lake Gunn, perfect for campers seeking tranquility before tackling Milford Sound. Accessible by sealed road, it features flush toilets, water supply, and cooking shelters, but no power or showers. Book via DOC to secure a spot during peak summer. Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve this UNESCO World Heritage gem.
Safety Considerations
The Eglinton Valley's microclimate brings rapid weather shifts; check MetService forecasts daily as rain can swell the nearby Eglinton River. Sandflies swarm relentlessly from dusk till dawn, so prioritize repellent. Kea birds raid unattended gear; store food in airtight containers hung high. Fire bans are common; use only the designated BBQ areas and extinguish fully per DOC rules. Hypothermia risks spike with wet conditions, even in summer. Solo campers, note limited cell coverage; inform others of your plans. Women traveling alone should camp in groups and use well-lit areas near shelters.
Essential Gear
Pack a robust 4-season tent like the MSR Hubba Hubba for wind; Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad; and synthetic sleeping bag rated to 0C. Include a portable stove such as Jetboil for cooking without fires. REI recommends headnets and DEET-based repellents for sandflies. Navigation essentials: GPS or Maps.me app, plus topo map of Fiordland. First aid kit with blister treatment, tweezers for ticks, and PLB for emergencies.
Emergency Tips
Injury or lost? Activate PLB or use satellite messenger; nearest ranger at Te Anau (45 min drive). Flooding: Move to high ground immediately. Ill from giardia: Boil all water. Dial 111 for rescue; provide GPS coordinates.