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Where exactly can you go camping in New Zealand?

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For all you nature-lovers, New Zealand is a dream. It doesn't matter if you're a hiker, a mountain biker, a rock climber, even a birdwatcher, this island country is incredibly rich with scenery sure to fulfill every last wild wish you have.

You've got places like Fiordland National Park where you can knock out pretty much all those activities in just a couple days if you'd like. But what if you actually want to spend a couple days in one of New Zealand's stunning parks while you're on locum tenens assignment? In other words, what if you want to go camping?

It goes without saying that New Zealand is very eco-conscious. It's a forward-thinking country positively bent on preservation and conservation. In fact, they try to follow that famous Chief Seattle mantra we've all probably heard before, "Take only memories, leave nothing but footprints." And they expect those who venture out into the pristine wilderness to follow those exact same words, too. That said there are select locations where you can camp. Here are the ins and outs.

Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites

There are more than 200 DOC campsites throughout the Land of the Long White Cloud – everywhere from forested mountains to sandy coves. And these conservation areas where you're able to camp are divided into six categories: serviced, scenic, standard, basic, backcountry, Great Walk. Learn more about the individual types of campsites here.

Holiday parks

These kinds of camping areas might appeal more to families or for those who simply want a quick weekend getaway without too much planning. As with the DOC campsites above, some holiday parks have sites for both tents and campervans. What's different about these campgrounds is that you can also sometimes find simple cabins, motel units and even backpackers' lodges. There might even be tours and activities nearby, too. Find out more here.

Lastly, there are designated areas and "Freedom Camping" spots where services and amenities are limited. Oftentimes these types of campsites are reserved solely for overnight camping, not for days at a time. Here's a map detailing all the regions where you can camp in New Zealand.