Let’s go camping!
There are numerous advantages to choosing a camping holiday, the most obvious one being that it allows you to get back to basics in the great outdoors, an environment which, nowadays, people seem to see less and less of. But it’s such a wonderful thing to climb into a tent and sleeping bag and drift off to sleep surrounded by the sounds of nature. Here in the Eastern Cape, there is an abundance of camping options where you can not only experience being lulled to sleep by the sounds of nature but also by the sounds of the ocean. And if you are not a seasoned camper, rest assured that camping these days is far from primitive with full amenities provided, should you wish to use them.
Another huge advantage is the lower cost of camping – if you are on a family holiday, you need to save where you can in order to splash out in other areas and camping really does suit most budgets. The majority of campsites have activities for the children, so you never have to worry about them getting bored but besides that, it’s a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with family away from televisions and computers etc. So what are you waiting for? When you’re planning that next family getaway and want something completely different, look no further than our guide to campsites in and around East London, we guarantee you’ll find the perfect place.
Areena Riverside Resort is a wonderful place for the camping enthusiast with 110 generously sized caravan or tent sites. Situated on the banks of the Kwelera tidal river, 23km east of East London’s city centre, most of the sites at the resort are very well grassed and shady with each one featuring an electrical outlet and braai. If you plan on taking your own boat, there are several jetties located there and if you want to take break from cooking, the Areena Quays restaurant serves everything from tasty light meals and snacks to juicy steaks and seafood! There are plenty of activities for both young and old at Areena with a large swimming pool, tennis courts, table tennis and pool tables and for the very young there is a playground and a few trampolines. The roads around the caravan park are perfect for riding bikes and trikes so don’t forget to bring them along! Laundry facilities and water taps and well maintained ablution blocks are located within easy reach of each site. Telephone 043 734 3055.
Lined by the beautiful Indian Ocean and with the gentle Kwelera River running alongside it, Yellow Sands offers the perfect holiday resort. Situated 27km from Gonubie, there are over 150 sites available throughout the resort, all of which are equipped with water and electrical points and site types available include ones with breathtaking sea views, shelter, shade and large open stand for the extra-large vans or tents. All sites are located within walking distance of both the beach and clean ablution blocks. Laundry facilities are also available (including ironing areas). The shallow lagoon formed by the river is safe for the young ones to swim in and there is also a beautiful beach which has limited access to the public and is therefore more private and safer all round. The resort is one of the top rated surf spots in the area and the river is safe for not only boating but also water skiing, wake boarding and tubing. If you are new to the camping experience, Yellow Sands also offers assistance with the setting up of your tent etc. There is no charge for this but tips are welcome. Telephone 043 734 3043
Situated just 3km’s from Kidd’s Beach, Palm Springs is a tranquil resort boasting shady, level caravan and camping sites with three clean and spacious ablution facilities, scullery and laundry. Occupying an idyllic spot on the banks of the Umlele River, the resort is a haven for anglers as well as a safe area for children to swim. Bring along your canoe for the river or take a stroll to the beach which is within walking distance. A playground and games room (including pool table, table tennis and DSTV) will ensure that the kids remain happy and occupied. Telephone 043 781 1901.
Located approximately 20km outside of Stutterheim, Wriggleswade Dam offers shaded caravan and camping sites with clean ablution blocks, electricity and hot/cold showers. If you’re a keen angler, this dam is a wonderful fishing spot and home to some very big Bass. Other activities available either at the dam or close by include swimming, water skiing, canoeing and sailing.
Renowned for its lovely 8km stretch of safe beach, beautiful shells, good surf and excellent rock and surf fishing, Cefani Mouth Holiday Resort is the perfect place for the whole family. Located between East London and the Wild Coast approximately 30km from the city centre, this relatively small and secluded resort offers 27 caravan and camping sites with a shallow lagoon that is ideal for swimming, canoeing and water skiing. There is also a tennis court, trampoline and volleyball court available. Telephone 043 738 5027.
Enjoy the independence and freedom of a caravan or camping holiday in an area of unspoilt beauty at Gonubie Caravan Park. All sites have electrical outlets and water points close by and the majority offer full or partial shade. All are level and large enough to accommodate most caravans, motorhomes and tents. There are five spotlessly clean ablution blocks with both showers and baths, and there is also a laundry facility and scullery available. The park boasts its very own protected beach with a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the lagoon and surrounding beaches and if the kids tire of playing in the river and ocean, there is a playground where they can meet and get to know lots of other children. Telephone 043 740 0571.
On the edge of the Inchara Lagoon at Morgan Bay Hotel, there are camping sites within walking distance of the beautiful beach. Just a 45-minute drive from East London, all of the sites at Morgan Bay have electricity and braai facilties and are in close proximity of the well maintained ablutions. Laundry facilities are also available. Telephone 043 841 1062.
Trennery’s Hotel, situated on the rugged Wild Coast 35km from East London, is the perfect destination for family holidays. The tranquil camp site is set in idyllic Transkei surroundings with plenty of adventurous activities to keep everybody entertained including mountain biking, horse riding and donkey rides on the beach, bird watching and lagoon cruises. Deep sea fishing trips can also be arranged. Telephone 047 498 0025/95.
Experience the sounds of beautiful birds, butterflies, magical sunsets and glorious sunrises at the Gulu Private Resort. An enchanting and tranquil resort, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers as well as those who prefer the beach. Just 15 minutes drive from East London and 10 minutes from the airport, Gulu Private Resort offers tented camping for the adventurer where you can wake up to the sounds of nature and the roaring ocean. Telephone 043 736 7005.
The Kei Mouth Municipal Caravan Park and Campsite recently underwent upgrading and is looking better than ever! 86km from East London, the park is centrally located in the village and close to the shops, golf club and beach and there is also a tennis court and children’s playground. All sites have electrical points and newly built braais and there are clean ablution blocks within easy reach. Telephone 043 841 1004.
Rendezvous Caravan Park is set on the edge of the beautiful Chintsa Bay, just a stone’s throw from the beach. 38km from East London, each camp site at the park is positioned among beautiful trees to offer privacy and all have braais, electricity, bathroom and outside scullery. An intimate, welcoming and safe environment, Rendezvous features facilties that include laundry, swimming pool (fenced and kiddies pool), recreation room, trampoline and playground for the children. Telephone 043 734 3317.
Arendsnes in Chintsa East is well situated in a park-like environment within walking distance of the sea. Situated 41km from East London, there are three ablution blocks with hot water at Arendsnes, all of which are easily accessible for campers. Electrical plug points are available at all sites as well as centrally located taps (please note that some electricity points may require a lead). All sites are grassed and ground sheets are not needed (netted ground sheets are permitted) and they are well protected against the wind with many shaded areas. Activities available to campers include a supertube and pool, beautiful beach, the Strandloper Trail, bird watching and a game reserve. Telephone 043 738 5064.
A friendly park catering for all ages, Nahoon Municipal Caravan Park is situated close to the well-known Nahoon Beach and river. There are many activities to enjoy in and around the area including golf, bowls, tennis, hockey, badminton and squash and of course all the outdoor activities which East London is famous for such as surfing, beach walking/running, cycling, swimming, paddling etc. Telephone 043 705 9748.
Located in a tranquil environment overlooking the Nahoon Valley, Elizweni Resort boasts lovely campsites providing an escape from busy city life. Amenities include a fully equipped kitchen for self-catering and there is also a multi-purpose centre for games and dinners etc. Activities offered in and around the area include hiking, mountain biking, paintball and kayaking. Telephone 043 745 9010.
Located at Cove Rock, just 5 minutes from the East London airport, is Nature’s Rest (formerly known as Lagoon Valley), a charming resort that will do exactly as the name suggests – take you right back to nature so you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Telephone 043 736 9753.
Nestled in lush indigenous dune forest at Quenera Mouth, east of the Gonubie River, is the PSA Holiday Resort and Caravan Park (18km east of the city centre). With 110 sites in an environment of tranquility, the resort is a very relaxed venue offering some of the best saltwater fishing, safe swimming and is a paradise for bird and nature lovers. All sites have electricity and ablutions with hot and cold water and there are braai facilities, a play area for the kids, recreation room, swimming pool and TV room. Laundry and scullery facilities are also available. Telephone 082 880 8949.
Santa Paloma Guest Farm offers camping in the lush coastal forest of East London, an area which is home to game and more than 200 different bird species. Tranquility will overcome you when you view the 360 degree spectacular valley views and green hilltops. This is farm-style living and warm hospitality at its best, where friends leave as family. Activities offered at Santa Paloma include horseback trail riding, fishing, game drives, hiking and there is also pool tables, dartboards and table tennis available. Telephone 043 745 2845.
Roeberts Holiday Resort is situated on the banks of the Igoda River, 17km west of East London. Offering tent and caravan sites with electricity facilities, laundry and ablution blocks, activities available include fishing, birdwatching, surfing, swimming or simply relaxing on one of the beautiful golden beaches. Back at the resort there is a swimming pool, games room, volleyball and pub available. Telephone 043 736 7035.
An unspoilt paradise 25 minutes from East London, Glen Muir Holiday Resort is situated in a tranquil environment with 27 camp and caravan sites right on the beach and surrounded by lawn and shady trees. Activities on offer include fishing, hiking, shell collecting, snorkelling, birdwatching and not forgetting the children, there’s a great kids playground too. Telephone 043 734 3032.
Buccaneers Lodge and Backpackers is spread out over 8 hectares of wild coast forest right next to the stunning Chintsa beach and offers camping spots in the midst of it all. Situated 38km from the centre of East London, Buccaneers takes all the effort out of camping, providing double and twin safari tents complete with beds and bedding, all within easy reach of bathrooms and kitchen. There’s even an outdoor bath if you’re feeling brave! Telephone 043 734 3012.
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