The practice, particularly around Otematata, is on the increase and the Waitaki District Council is taking a tougher line, which could result in a fine of up to $400.
Recreation manager Erik van der Spek said the problem was particularly bad at Waitangi weekend.
''One person was caught [by the camps' manager], and complained when they were stopped. They went off and tried it at another camp,'' he said.
The problem had been ''a small issue'' at all the council-operated Waitaki lakes camps in past years, but had become worse.
''There seem to be an expectation or belief among town people, whether they are residents, holidaymakers or people renting, that it is acceptable,'' he said.
It was obvious which was household rubbish. Campers tended to deposit rubbish each day, not use black plastic rubbish bags or dump a week's worth of food scraps or dirty nappies.
''People have left mattresses, broken chairs, large bags of nappies and household waste in the camping grounds, with campers expressing their concern.''
''We have received some information of recent offenders and we will be taking necessary action,'' Mr van der Spek said.
They council was also looking at extending surveillance to cover some of the problem locations.
He urged anyone with any information that could help resolve the problem to contact the council on (03) 433-0300 or email service@waitaki.govt.nz.
