15+ Best Campsites In South Africa For Your Next Adventure in 2026
I will be the first to admit I hated camping when I was younger.
I wanted a five-star service minus the bugs and dirt, please.
But since growing up and fostering an appreciation for the great outdoors and music festivals, camping has become a go-to on weekends, holidays, and impromptu adventures away. Nothing beats hiking the nearby wilderness and being bundled up by a campfire, staring at the stars!
Whether you prefer disconnecting on the beach, frolicking in the forest, or losing signal in the mountains, campsites in South Africa have something for everyone.
Here are some of the best places to camp in South Africa!
Psst…Want more South Africa travel inspiration? Check out my other posts!
- The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away
- Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know
- The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
- Backpacking South Africa Alone: The Perfect One-Month Itinerary
- The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit
- 45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide
Table of Contents
- Campsites in South Africa Overview
- Mahai River Campsite, Drakensberg
- Tietiesbaai Beach Camp, West Coast
- Fiddlers Creek Campsite, Orange River
- Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, Garden Route
- Mabibi Beach Camp, Elephant Coast
- Kwass se Baai Campsite, Namaqualand
- Bontebok National Park, Swellendam
- Platbos Forest, Gansbaai
- Monk’s Cowl Campsite, Drakensberg
- Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, Cederberg
- Enjo Nature Farm, Biedouw Valley
- Sanddrif, Cederberg
- Lower Sabie, Kruger National Park
- Kogel Bay, Western Cape
- Wild Spirit Backpackers Lodge, Garden Route
- Beaverlac in the Cederberg
- The Top of Tugela Falls, Drakensberg
- De Hoop Nature Reserve, Western Cape
- Campsites in South Africa: Frequently Asked Questions
Campsites in South Africa Overview
| Campsite | Region | Electricity | 4×4 Required | Swimming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drakensberg | ||||
| Mahai River | Royal Natal, KZN | ✓ Some sites | ✗ No | ✓ River |
| Monk’s Cowl | Northern Berg, KZN | ✓ Some sites | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Tugela Falls | Northern Berg, KZN | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Western Cape | ||||
| Tietiesbaai Beach | West Coast NP | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✓ Beach |
| Bontebok / Elsie’s Kraal | Swellendam | ✓ Some sites | ✗ No | ✓ River/Lake |
| Sanddrif | Cederberg | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ Rock pools |
| Kagga Kamma | Cederberg | ✗ No | ⚠ Some sites | ✓ Pool |
| Enjo Nature Farm | Biedouw Valley | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ River |
| Beaverlac | Porterville, Cederberg | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✓ Rock pools |
| Kogel Bay | Gordon’s Bay | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✓ Beach |
| Platbos Forest | Gansbaai | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| De Hoop Nature Reserve | Potberg | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ Ocean |
| Garden Route | ||||
| Storms River Mouth | Tsitsikamma | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✓ Ocean |
| Wild Spirit | Nature’s Valley | ✗ No | ✗ No | ✗ No |
| Northern Cape | ||||
| Fiddlers Creek | Orange River | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ River |
| Kwass se Baai | Namaqua NP | ✗ No | ⚠ Yes | ✗ No |
| KwaZulu-Natal | ||||
| Mabibi Beach | iSimangaliso, KZN | ✗ No | ⚠ Yes | ✓ Beach |
| Mpumalanga / Kruger | ||||
| Lower Sabie | Kruger NP | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ Pool |
⚠️ = 4×4 required for some or all sites. Always verify facilities and book in advance — details subject to change.
Mahai River Campsite, Drakensberg
In a valley surrounded by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, lies the Mahai River Campsite inside the Royal Natal National Park.
I spent a weekend here a few years ago and absolutely loved it.
You’ll have access to electricity at your campsite and a range of hikes to choose from, suitable for casual strollers and avid trekkers.
The baboons are sneaky here, so be sure to keep your food and belongings locked up when you are not around
Campsite Specs:
- Communal ablution and washing-up facilities.
- 44 electric and 40 non-electric campsites.
Read More: Hiking Tugela Falls: Africa’s Highest Waterfall
Tietiesbaai Beach Camp, West Coast
Tietiesbaai is one of the best West Coast camping sites near Cape Town. Outdoor and adventure lovers flock here to enjoy the incredible natural scenery while spending their days hiking around the coastline, watching incredible sunsets, and visiting the small town of Paternoster.
With no electricity, it’s the excuse you need to unplug from the world and soak up the beauty of the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Campsite Specs:
- Shared ablutions facilities with warm showers.
- No dogs or motorcycles.
- 60 camping sites, no electricity.
Read More: 20+ Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
Fiddlers Creek Campsite, Orange River
Bushwhacked Adventurers’ Fiddler Creek Campsite is one of the most scenic Orange River camping sites. It is a beautiful wilderness escape with the perfect balance between glamping and roughing it.
If you are feeling adventurous and have the time, book a 3- to 4-day river-rafting trip that will take you into Namibia and back.
Camping Specs:
- Electricity and a built-in braai area.
- 14 grassed campsites 200 m from the water.
- Hot showers with flush toilets.
Read More: The Ultimate South Africa Travel Guide
Storms River Mouth Rest Camp, Garden Route
The Storms River Mouth Rest Camp is a Garden Route camping site serving up some of the region’s most breathtaking views.
There are plenty of opportunities to scuba dive, look out for the southern right whale coming inshore to breed, or explore the beginning of the renowned Otter Trail. With all of this epic natural scenery at your fingertips, it’s one of the top campsites in South Africa!
Camping Specs:
- Communal ablution, laundry, and washing-up facilities.
- No electricity.
Read More: Otter Trail Packing List: 40+ Must-Have Items to Survive The Wilderness
Mabibi Beach Camp, Elephant Coast
Looking for secluded camping sites in South Africa? Head to Mabibi Beach Camp, located in the wilderness of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
There’s no electricity or drinking water, and you will need a 4×4 to get there, but you will be rewarded with incredible views of the coastal forest. Make your way down 130 wooden steps to the beach, and you might even spot loggerhead and leatherback turtles nesting!
Another camping option inside iSimangaliso is Cape Vidal. With 45 camping spots, it offers easy access to snorkelling spots, pristine beaches, and hiking trails.
Camping Specs:
- Eight sites, but number 3 is closest to the beach.
- Braai area and hot showers.
Read More: The Ultimate iSimangaliso Wetland Park Travel Guide
Kwass se Baai Campsite, Namaqualand
If you want to camp right next to the ocean and experience the West Coast raw and unfiltered, Kwass se Baai campsite in Namaqua National Park offers all that and more.
Staying here has probably been one of my favourite camping spots to date!
Charge your camera and prepare yourself for epic sunsets and wildlife spotting like the smallest tortoise on Earth, antelope, and the Namaqua speckled padloper.
While it is a basic camping experience, the views are worth roughing it for a few days.
Camping Specs:
- Four camping spots with windbreak walls and a braai area.
- No water or electricity, and environmental toilets.
- 4×4 is required to reach the camp.
Read More: 8+ Stunning, Drool-Worthy Places to See the Namaqualand Flowers
Bontebok National Park, Swellendam
Located along the banks of the Breede River, Elsie’s Kraal offers some of the best camping in South Africa, with stunning views of the Langeberg Mountains. Explore the nearby area by going on game drives, kayaking along the river, or conquering one of the beautiful hiking trails.
I spent New Year’s Eve here and had the best time jumping into the lake with my floatie, cooking up a delicious midnight feast, and dancing underneath the stars.
If you want to get out of the reserve for the day, drive up to Grootvaderbosch Nature Reserve. There are stunning forest hikes here, as well as a longer route that’ll take you all the way up to a rock pool on top of the mountain.
P.S. The camping at Grootvaderbosch is also incredible! You’ll have your own private wooden deck, a private wash-up station, access to a pool, and electrical points to charge your phones and other devices.
Camping Specs:
- Communal picnic and braai sites and ablution facilities.
- Six campsites with electrical outlets
Platbos Forest, Gansbaai
Camp in the southernmost forest in Africa, beneath Milkwood and yellowwood trees – some over 1000 years old!
Platbos Forest is one of the best camping spots in South Africa for getting off the grid and spending your days hiking through the forest, horseback riding, or exploring the nearby beach.
Camping Specs:
- Open-air hot shower, fully equipped kitchen, no electricity, but gas is available for cooking.
- Two already pitched tents are included in the price, and all linen, towels, and bedding are provided.
Monk’s Cowl Campsite, Drakensberg
Named after the peak between Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak in the Northern Drakensberg, Monk’s Cowl rest camp is a gateway to some of the most scenic mountain views in South Africa.
It’s one of the best Drakensberg camping sites and is a haven for avid hikers, with routes varying from a few hours to several days.
Camping Specs:
- 12 electrical and 26 non-electrical campsites
- Braai facilities
- Communal ablution blocks with hot showers and flush toilets.
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, Cederberg
Tucked away in the wilderness of the Cederberg Mountains, Kagga Kamma is renowned for its cultural history and impressive rock formations.
If you’re a camping enthusiast, you need to add Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve to your bucket list! Explore the nearby area by going on a nature drive, stargazing tour, or conquering one of the mountain bike trails.
Camping Specs:
- 5 campsites, 3 of which are accessible only with a 4×4 vehicle.
- Ablution blocks with water facilities are available at 2 of the campsites.
- Communal Swimming Pool
- No electricity
Enjo Nature Farm, Biedouw Valley
Camp amongst the wildflowers at Enjo Nature Farm. The property sits right on the Biedouw River, and it comes with a private wildflower field! With all of this epic natural scenery at your fingertips, it’s one of the most beautiful campsites in South Africa.
I spent 2-nights camping here en route to Namaqualand. But if you don’t want to drive all the way up the west coast to see the wildflower show, just come here.
The Biedouw Valley is bursting with colour, and your campsite at Enjo Nature Farm has plenty to see within walking distance of your tent.
Camping Specs:
- 3 spacious electric campsites.
- Communal Ablution blocks with water facilities available.
- Braai facilities
Sanddrif, Cederberg
Adrenaline junkies will love the activities available at Sanddrif Holiday Resort.
Located in the Cederberg Wilderness Area, which boasts some of the best hiking trails near Cape Town, including the popular Wolfberg Arch trail. Campers can go rock climbing, mountain biking, and relax in the nearby Maalgat Pools.
If you can, I highly recommend camping for 2 nights at Wolfberg Arch (so you have enough time to explore the escarpment), and then camping at Sandriff to explore the Valley of the Red Gods at sunset and on the other day trails.
Camping Specs:
- More than 40 electric camping facilities across two campsites.
- Communal ablution blocks with hot water facilities.
- Braai facilities at every campsite
Lower Sabie, Kruger National Park
Lower Sabie is one of the best places to stay inside Kruger National Park, BUT you need to book at least six months in advance. Located on the banks of the Sabie River, the plentiful water attracts an array of wildlife, making it the perfect place to see game year-round.
Camping Specs:
- 33 electric campsites.
- Communal ablution blocks.
- Cooking facilities.
- Outdoor swimming pool
Read More: Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need To Know
Kogel Bay, Western Cape
Located near Cape Town, Kogel Bay Resort is set amid towering mountains and sandy beaches.
It’s not hard to see why this stretch of sand is one of the best photo spots near Cape Town. With 4 km of largely undeveloped coastline and a secret cave, it is the perfect spot to unplug and recharge.
Camping Specs:
- 242 Campsites located on the beach.
- Communal ablution facilities throughout the campsite.
- Braai pits are scattered throughout the campsite area.
- No electricity
Wild Spirit Backpackers Lodge, Garden Route
Surrounded by the indigenous forests of Tsitsikamma National Park, Wild Spirit is all about conscious travel, eating well, and Green Living. Located in the heart of the famous Garden Route, it’s a wonderful spot to reconnect with nature.
Don’t miss out on exploring the hiking trails from the property!
Camping Specs:
- Off The Grid Campsites.
- Communal ablution facilities.
- Kitchen facilities.
- Communal fire pits.
Read More: An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)
Beaverlac in the Cederberg
Okay, I’m clearly a little bit biased towards the Cederberg…
…But can you blame me?
It’s home to so many incredible camping spots in SA.
Case in point, Beaverlac in Porterville.
Surrounded by the Olifants River Mountains, it offers plenty of stunning day hikes and inviting rock pools for those hot summer days.
Plus, it’s a pet-friendly camping spot and super affordable, with rates starting at R90.00 per person per night.
Camping Specs:
- No electric points
- Well-stocked shop
- No card facilities, cash only
- Bring your own braai grid
- Communal bathrooms
The Top of Tugela Falls, Drakensberg
Honestly? Out of all the campsites in South Africa, this one is my favourite. I’ve camped here many, many times over the years, and there really is nothing like waking up on top of the highest waterfall in Africa.
If you’re lucky, you’ll get to experience a cloud inversion! Plus, the sunrises and sunsets here are spectacular. I cannot recommend it enough!
The only thing you’ll need to keep in mind is that it’s a hike. With chain ladders. I’ve got an entire guide on hiking Tugela Falls, which also breaks down where you can buy your hiking and camping permits.
Camping Specs:
None! It’s free camping in the wild.
De Hoop Nature Reserve, Western Cape
Have you been to De Hoop Nature Reserve? If not, you’re missing out!
It’s home to the iconic Whale Trail slackpacking hike (highly, highly recommend!!) and is one of the most beautiful places in South Africa to pitch a tent.
The campsites are close to everything you need. You’re only a short distance away from hiking trails, a restaurant, a bar, and cycling paths. You can also sign up for a bunch of guided activities or hop in your car and explore the nearby Elim Wine Route.
Camping Specs:
- 10 campsites
- Braai area and picnic bench
- Power points
- Basic kitchen facilities
- Communal toilets
Read More: Whale Trail Hike in South Africa: Everything You Need to Know
Campsites in South Africa: Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Camping in South Africa is generally safe when you choose reputable, well-managed campsites and take sensible precautions. Most of the sites on this list are inside national parks or private nature reserves with controlled access. Usually, the thing you have to worry about the most is baboons. You can avoid them raiding your campsite by keeping your food and tents locked up.
Yes, most campsites require you to book a site in advance. If you’re going camping during popular peak seasons, you should book at least six months in advance. For less popular sites or during off-peak, you can usually find spots available two or three weeks before your trip.
I highly recommend hiring camping and hiking gear from Scuttle. I’ve used them multiple times on my trips, and their gear is affordable and always in good condition.
What are the best campsites in South Africa, in your opinion?
If you like it, then you’d better put a pin on it!
We made the trek to Mabibi Beach Camp this past summer and let me tell you, it was sooo worth the trip. Easily one of the top 3 campsites I’ve ever had the pleasure of staying at – although be warned, both getting there and camping there are a challenge, so it’s definitely not a campsite for the inexperienced.
Hey Radley! Thanks so much for sharing your Mabibi Beach Camp experience with me 🙂
how safe is mabibi?
I never had a problem when I went!
I’m sorry but Bakgatla simply can’t be on this list! Crime, packed campsites, run-down facilities and blasting music coming from the nearby shebeen (the whole night long). Definitely not the best SA has to offer…
Helloo! This post is quite old I know. I’ve just hired someone to help me with updating old content like this. I am fully aware this list needs some spring cleaning.