South Africa Camping and Camp Sites

The smell of the bush, the sound of animals calling, light as it casts its yellow glow over the savannah, the crisp morning air, and the warm rays of the African sun. There are few better ways to get really close to the South African outdoors than by pitching a tent or setting up a caravan in the heart of this raw beauty.

In addition to the many catered and self-catered places to stay in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and the other major city centres; South Africa has more than 700 camping and caravanning sites that are in or near popular nature reserves, wildlife parks, famous landscapes, tourist attractions, tour routes, and the gorgeous coastline that stretches for thousands of kilometres.

There are basic camp sites, where visitors come to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors without the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of these have electricity and ablutions available, while others are more rustic, little more than a clearing in the verdant vegetation. On the other side of the spectrum, there are luxurious tented camps, where tents stand on raised platforms and boast king-sized beds, inviting linen, mosquito nets, and electricity. Affectionately dubbed "glamping", this is a real treat for those that want to enjoy the camping experience with a touch of the glamour and convenience that comes with modern living.

Whether a peaceful weekend away in a little tent for two, a family vacation in a caravan, or a romantic honeymoon in an opulent tented camp, the South African camping experience is a truly special one.

Did you know? Camping equipment can be rented in South Africa in most major towns and cities. Everything you'll need from a tent and camping chairs to cutlery and crockery.

Popular camping accommodation

View Camping Sites by Province

Western Cape

 Pictured: Lebanon Citrus Resort in Clanwilliam
The extraordinary beauty of the Western Cape has long been celebrated, making this one of the world's top destinations. From the Cape Winelands to the endless beaches of the West Coast, these gorgeous surrounds are best enjoyed from one of ...

Garden Route

 Pictured: Peace of Eden in Knysna
The Garden Route is a place of beauty and variety. Its landscapes range from the towering mountains of the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma to the forests around Storms River and Knysna; from the sparkling rivers and dams, to the vast beaches. Pit...

Eastern Cape

 Pictured: Areena Riverside Resort in Cintsa
One of South Africa's most beautiful provinces, the Eastern Cape is a camper's delight. There are long stretches of white beach, lapped by ocean waters, and a number of national parks and game reserves. Watersports enthusiasts and those who...

KwaZulu Natal

 Pictured: Tepee Moon in Drakensberg
The balmy conditions, coastline, midlands and mountains of KwaZulu Natal combine to create an idyllic camping and caravanning destination. After a day spent discovering breathtaking surrounds, there is no better way to enjoy a starry night ...

Gauteng

 Pictured: Bushwillow Tented Camp in Muldersdrift
Gauteng may be known for commercial and retail hubs, but there are a number of comfortable, sometimes luxurious, sites just outside the city centres, which are ideal retreats for avid campers or those with caravans. Traditional campsites an...

Mpumalanga

 Pictured: Sabie River Camp in Sabie
Mpumalanga offers a diverse collection of camping and caravanning sites throughout the scenic province. These are ideal for family getaways, romantic retreats, or summer vacations with friends. The drama of the Blyde River Canyon, Hoedsprui...

Limpopo

 Pictured: AfriCamps at Hoedspruit in Hoedspruit
Home to the Kruger National Park, Limpopo boasts an array of stunning sites ranging from rustic camps with only the very basics to eco retreats with every convenience. With many game reserves and parks, Limpopo is an exciting camping destin...

North West Province

 Pictured: Pilanesberg Tented Safari Camp in Pilanesberg
Enjoy endless sunflower fields that meet the clear blue of the South African sky when staying at one of the camping or caravan sites in the North West Province. Irresistible tented safari camps meet with unique eco camps to make for a speci...

Free State

 Pictured: Dome Inn Lodge in Parys
Any outdoor venture in the Free State is bound to be one of utter beauty and undeniable drama. Set up camp at the foot of a mountain or on the banks of the Vaal River to drink in the splendour, and be assured of an unforgettable time in the...

Northern Cape

 Pictured: Karoo Gariep Nature Reserve Tented Camp in Hanover
From private, mobile tented camps to rustic little spots under Northern Cape stars, this province celebrates fynbos, wild flowers, white beaches, and seaside fishing villages. Camping here means sampling the magic of this part of South Afri...

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View all camping sites by province, indicated with red markers on the map below.
Blue markers show some popular camping sites around the country.

Accommodation for camping enthusiasts, including camp sites and/or caravan parks

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