Last updated July 2026
Cowshed Bay is a Department of Conservation campsite on the shores of Kenepuru Sound in the Marlborough Sounds, offering a quiet coastal setting for camping and water-based activities. The site provides access to the Queen Charlotte Track and sheltered swimming opportunities in a scenic bay near Portage. Road access is currently closed due to damage, so visitors reach the campsite by boat only. Bookings are required during peak season, and the site features basic facilities including toilets and a cold shower.
Practical Information
| Location | Portage Bay, Kenepuru Sound, Marlborough |
| Access | Boat only (road access closed); also via Queen Charlotte Track |
| Camping | DOC scenic campsite, 20 non-powered tent sites, bookings required |
| Facilities | Toilets (seaward and inland sides), cold shower, no power |
| Cost | Adult $15 per night, child (5-17) $5, infant free |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Swimming | Sheltered bay, calm conditions typical; follow water safety advice |
| Activities | Swimming, boating, kayaking, walking or biking Queen Charlotte Track |
About Cowshed Bay
Cowshed Bay lies in Kenepuru Sound, part of the Marlborough Sounds network. The campsite sits at the water’s edge with sites among native bush, providing a peaceful base for exploring the area. It is one of the road-accessible DOC sites in the region under normal conditions, though current road closures mean boat access is required.
The small bay features a stony and gravel foreshore with sheltered waters suitable for swimming and kayaking. Views across the Sound and proximity to the Queen Charlotte Track make it popular with trampers and cyclists seeking an overnight stop.
Portage Resort is a short distance away for meals and supplies when accessible. The site supports low-impact camping with quiet hours enforced from 9:30 pm to 6:30 am.
Access and Current Conditions
Road access via Kenepuru Road from Linkwater is closed due to damage from severe weather. Visitors must arrive by boat to Torea or Portage Bays, then walk or cycle a short distance to the campsite. Always check the latest road and access updates on the Marlborough District Council website before travel. The Queen Charlotte Track provides an alternative approach from Torea Saddle or Portage.
Booking and Facilities
Bookings are essential from 1 December to 28 February and on public holiday weekends; book online via the DOC website well in advance as spaces fill quickly. Outside peak periods, availability is still limited and same-day bookings may be possible if spaces remain. Facilities include multiple toilets and a cold shower. No powered sites or cooking shelter are listed in current details. Generators are permitted only during specific evening hours.
Swimming and Water Activities
The sheltered waters of Cowshed Bay offer calm conditions for swimming and kayaking in most weather. The foreshore is stony rather than sandy. Visitors should check tides and weather, follow DOC water safety guidelines, and be aware of variable conditions in the Sounds.
Queen Charlotte Track Connection
The Queen Charlotte Track passes near the campsite, with access points at Torea Saddle (short downhill track) or from Portage (road walk). This makes Cowshed Bay a convenient overnight stop for multi-day walkers and mountain bikers. A DOC campsite pass or Te Araroa Trail pass may apply for eligible users.
What Visitors Often Say
Campers appreciate the peaceful, scenic location right by the water and the easy connection to the Queen Charlotte Track for walking or biking. Many note the basic but functional facilities and the need to plan ahead for bookings and boat access.
Reviewers highlight the sheltered swimming and relaxed atmosphere, especially outside peak season. Some mention the winding roads (when open) and the importance of checking current access conditions before travel.
Where to Learn More
DOC — Cowshed Bay Campsite: official details on bookings, fees, facilities, access and current conditions.
Marlborough District Council alerts: latest road and access updates for the Marlborough Sounds.
DOC — Queen Charlotte Track: track information, maps and connections to Cowshed Bay campsite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to book Cowshed Bay campsite?
Yes, bookings are required especially from 1 December to 28 February and on public holiday weekends. Book online in advance as the site fills quickly.
Can you swim at Cowshed Bay?
Yes, the sheltered bay offers generally calm conditions for swimming. Check tides, weather and follow water safety advice; the foreshore is stony.
Are dogs allowed at Cowshed Bay campsite?
No, dogs are not permitted at this DOC campsite.
How do you get to Cowshed Bay?
Currently by boat only due to road closures from weather damage. Check Marlborough District Council alerts for updates. The Queen Charlotte Track also provides access.
What facilities are at Cowshed Bay campsite?
Toilets on both sides of the camp and a cold shower on the inland side. Sites are unpowered with no cooking shelter listed.
How many sites are there?
There are 20 non-powered tent sites available.
Is there a shop or restaurant nearby?
Portage Resort is nearby when accessible for meals and supplies. Bring all essentials as there are no shops on the Kenepuru Road route.
What is the cost to stay?
Adult $15 per night, child (5-17 years) $5, infants free. A DOC Campsite Pass can be used.
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