More freedom camping places are proposed on the Coromandel Peninsula but many prime spots will remain prohibited.

Thames-Coromandel District Council's existing Freedom Camping Bylaw has been criticised as being unreasonably prohibitive and turning away much-needed visitors.

The New Zealand Motor Caravan Association says the bylaw and other associated bylaws are illegal and has sought a judicial review of the council's actions.

Bylaw review project manager Christine Tye says that based on feedback and the council's own review, some changes are needed and a new bylaw is proposed.

It would allow camping in self-contained vehicles on all council-controlled and managed land except where it is specifically prohibited.

In Coromandel-Colville there are 12 areas where it's not allowed and six where it's allowed with restrictions. In Mercury Bay there are 16 where it's not allowed and 13 where it's allowed with restrictions. Most beachfront reserves are unavailable for freedom camping.

Restrictions generally relate to how many parks are available, length of stay (usually one night) and time of departure. Many sites are not available during January and February. Details of the proposed permitted and prohibited sites are available on the council's website. Submissions on the new bylaw close on Friday, August 1, 4pm.