Reconnect with nature: top campsites for your summer adventure
As summer envelopes South Africa in its warm embrace, the call of the great outdoors grows louder. Adventure beckons from every mountainside and riverside, where the night sky unfurls a captivating tapestry of stars.
Camping, in its essence, offers a unique way to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature, whether you’re journeying solo, with family or a group of friends.
Moments spent under the vast sky not only reinvigorate relationships but also bring substantial mental and physical well-being, demonstrating that the healing power of nature is profound.
The therapeutic benefits are well documented; researchers have correlated outdoor activities with a decline in depressive thoughts.
The warm summer nights spent sleeping beneath the stars can help align circadian rhythms, setting the stage for healthy sleep patterns. If you’re seeking solace in nature, here are some affordable campsites that promise unforgettable experiences.
Klipspringerkloof Bush Camp
Tucked away on the edge of the Dinokeng Nature Reserve, Klipspringerkloof Bush Camp offers a stunning blend of comfort and immersion in nature.
Choose from ten private camping stands, each with its own bathroom, or opt for a self-catering stone chalet that boasts breathtaking views of the kloof.
Camping stands accommodate up to four adults or two adults and three kids.
Each site features a 16-amp electricity point, a water point, and a bushveld boma with braai facilities. A private lockable bathroom with a gas geyser adds to the convenience.
Campers can bring off-road caravans, trailers or motorhomes but be mindful of the single-vehicle rule per stand.
Guests also have access to a communal pool area surrounded by lush lawns, making it an ideal paradise for relaxation. Rates start from R610 a night.
Sabie River Camp
Only a few hours’ drive from Gauteng and a short journey from the iconic Kruger National Park, Sabie River Camp is in the heart of Mpumalanga’s natural beauty.
This tranquil, malaria-free haven is perfect for the whole family and offers a plethora of outdoor activities including hiking, fly fishing, and mountain biking. Experience stunning waterfalls and pristine mountain streams.
Engage in thrilling adventures such as white-water rafting, rock climbing, and abseiling. Explore the vibrant local arts and crafts scene for those looking to take a piece of South Africa home.
Rates start from From R450 a night for 2 adults.
Tweede Tol: Limietberg Nature Reserve
For those seeking breathtaking hikes and serene landscapes, Limietberg Nature Reserve in the Du Toitskloof Mountains is a must-visit.
Spanning a remarkable 102,000 hectares, this World Heritage Site is not only a visual delight but acts as a vital water catchment system for surrounding rivers.
Challenge yourself with hikes that reveal stunning kettle valleys and offer glimpses of endemic wildlife.
Don’t miss historical landmarks like ancient rock art and the remnants of a disused manganese mine.
Visit Tweede Tol for picnicking and braaing but arrive early as the limit for day visitors is strictly 120. For booking information, contact 087 087 8250.
Drakensberg Gardens Camping
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Southern Drakensberg, the Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort features a camping site that is equally captivating.
This site offers a total of ten camping spots with both electrified and non-electrified sites, ensuring every camper's need is satisfied.
Facilities include braai areas and communal ablution blocks.
Ratio of activities for all ages, from kiddies’ pony rides to thrilling abseiling and zip lines.
The resort also presents a variety of dining options for guests seeking culinary delights amidst nature. Rates start from R260 a night.
Piesangkloof 4x4 Trails & Bush Camp
At the foothills of the majestic Magaliesberg, near Hartbeespoort, lies Piesangkloof 4x4 Trails & Bush Camp.
Here, nature remains unspoiled, creating a sanctuary for those eager to escape into the wild. This bush camp is the ideal destination for thrill-seekers who want to test their 4x4 skills while soaking in jaw-dropping views that span the mountainous terrain.
Visitors can indulge in self-catering braai facilities at the base of the mountains or enjoy a barbecue atop the cliffs while surrounded by stunning scenery.
For those keen on a back-to-basics adventure, the camp’s private eco-friendly spaces boast unique amenities such as veld toilets and donkey showers.
Campers can stay in Bush Wendy Houses, or pitch tents, caravans and motorhomes amid the tranquil wilderness, all while enjoying the sights of local wildlife and a refreshing splash pool for the hot days ahead.
Rates start from R120 a night a person camping.
Lalanathi Caravan and Camping Park
Looking to camp at the beach? The Lalanathi Caravan and Camping Park on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast invites guests to a peaceful retreat marked by scenic views and ample amenities.
The site boasts roomy, private campsites perfect for families or individuals looking to unwind in nature.
Laughter mingles with the sound of waves nearby as guests engage in a myriad of activities from fishing and swimming to leisurely strolls along the beach.
For those wishing for a more comfortable stay, the park also offers cabins for rent, alongside entertainment options for children and teenagers alike, such as a pool, play area and a communal lounge with a big-screen TV and a pool table.
Lalanathi is an oasis for families looking to reconnect over the joys of camping in a beautiful coastal hinterland. Rates start from R130 a night out of season.
Wilderness Ebb-and-Flow Rest Camp
For those yearning for a diverse outdoor experience, the Wilderness Ebb-and-Flow Rest Camp nestled in the Garden Route National Park is a must-visit.
This enchanting area features lakes, rivers, and estuaries, flanked by verdant forests and stunning mountains — an unparalleled backdrop for your nature escapade.
Visitors can embark on exhilarating adventures like canoeing or abseiling, or simply unwind by taking a peaceful stroll along forest trails.
Wildlife enthusiasts may catch glimpses of the vibrant Knysna loerie and various species of kingfishers that inhabit the area.
The park’s offerings span a range of experiences, making it accessible for all ages, from canoeing peacefully on calm waters to pitching your tent under a starlit sky along the river’s edge.
To delve into nature, guests may find themselves fishing at Island Lake or playing volleyball in the recreation areas.
The park connects with the Goukamma Nature Reserve, giving adventurers opportunities to explore its five lakes and the winding Serpentine River, ensuring a full day of fun. Rates start from R418 a night.