Here are some awesome spots to pitch your tent in the Cape.

Whether you’re looking for back-to-basics beauty, a fun family getaway, or a romantic retreat, we’ve got you covered with our picks of campsites in the Cape.

1. Gamkaberg Nature Reserve

Where: Oudtshoorn
What: Its name derived from the Khoi word Gami, meaning “lion”, this nature reserve encompasses the serene and silent landscape of the Little Karoo. Cape Mountain Zebra, aardvarks and all manner of game wander the region. One of the campsites – Ou Kraal – is only accessible via hiking trail or 4×4, making it all the more of an escape into nature.
Distance from CT:5 hours
Facilities:

Ou Kraal Campsite:

• four herder’s huts that each sleep 2 people (in single beds, with mattresses)
• basic ablution facilities (just an Enviro-loo waterless toilet and basin)
• no electricity
• braai grid (wood provided on request)
• water tank with rainwater

Gamkaberg Campsite:

• two campsites, each able to sleep 4 people<
• electricity available
• ablution facilities with a solar-heated shower
• braai facilities

Stables:

• two rooms, each able to sleep 4 people (in bunk beds)
• electricity available
• ablution facilities with toilets and a solar-heated shower
• braai facilities

Activities:

• hiking and walking trails (both day and overnight trails)
• 4×4 trails
• picnic area
• rock-climbing

Pet friendly? No
Contact 021 483 0190, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Location Oudtshoorn (via N1, R60, R62)

2. Matjiesvlei Guest Farm

Where: Calitzdorp
What: In a region where arid Karoo and lush farmland meet, you’ll find this tranquil farm on the banks of the Gamka river. Only accessible by 4×4 (a massive plus, in our view), this place of mesmerising natural beauty is a fisherman’s ideal getaway.
Distance from CT: 4.5 hours
Facilities:

• ablution blocks with flush toilets and heated water

Activities:

• fishing, swimming and boating in the river
• walking and hiking trails
• mountain-biking and horse-riding
• bird-watching
• tractor tours
• ostrich farms
• Klein Karoo Wine Route
• Cango Caves
• Thando’s Township Tours
• Swartberg Scenic Flights
• nearby towns of Calitzdorp and Oudtshoorn

Pet friendly? No
Contact 044 050 4436,matjiesvlei@telkomsa.net

Location Matjiesvlei (via N1, R62)

3. Platbos Forest & Owl Camp

Where: Gansbaai
What: Set in an ancient forest, Platbos is privately owned by conservationists intent on preserving its rich diversity of flora and fauna, which includes thousand-year-old milkwood trees, bushbucks, baboons and even some leopards. The entire site is effectively off-the-grid and utilises solar-powered lighting, and old-school donkey boilers to heat the water. Unique for its flat terrain (hence its name) and sandy, alkaline soil, Platbos offers a variety of accommodation options, including secluded log cabins and tented rooms.
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours

Facilities:

Forest Camp:

• 2 tented units with 2 single beds each
• fully equipped kitchen
• outdoor fireplace
• open-air shower (with heated water)
• washstand, basin and waterless toilet
• firewood provided for donkey boiler, additional firewood can be purchased
• off-grid (no power points) but solar-powered

Owl Camp:

• campsite under forest canopy
• parking space for canopy tent or 4×4 camper van
• open-air shower
• sink and waterless toilet
• fire pit and braai grid
• communal freezer
• firewood provided for donkey boiler, additional firewood can be purchased
• off-grid (no power points) but solar-powered

Activities:

• forest trails
• labyrinth made from mother-of-pearl seashells
• Platbos Forest Tree Nursery
• Grootbos Nature Reserve at Gansbaai
• Klein River Cheese Farm
• ideal location for exploring Hermanus and Stanford

Pet friendly? No

Location: Gansbaai (via N2, R43)

4. Enjo Nature Farm

Where: Clanwilliam
What: This secluded farm in the Cederberg Mountains is the place to go if you want to get off the beaten track. The campsites, which lie beside a river, provide spiritual immersion in the silence and majesty of the Cederberg. Guests can swim in the farm’s spring-fed dam, or explore the many hiking trails that surround the farm. And, if you’re fortunate enough to be here between July and September, you’ll be treated to a wondrous bouquet of colour as wildflowers bloom in the Biedouw Valley.
Distance from CT: 3.5 hours

Facilities:

• 3 private campsites, and a thatch cottage with a hot water shower and toilet
• each campsite has water, a fireplace, and a power point
• accommodation is self-catering, but breakfast and dinner can be booked ahead of time
• firewood available for purchase
• the main farmhouse has an honesty bar selling drinks and snacks

Activities:

• swimming in the farm’s spring-fed dam
• games room with a pool table, dartboard and board games
• children can bottle-feed the lambs during lambing season
• hiking, mountain-biking and Jeep trails in the surrounding nature reserve
• The Sevilla Rock Art Trail is worth exploring for its many Bushman paintings
• stargazing (the views of the Cederberg night sky are legendary)
• nearby towns include Clanwilliam, Ceres and Wupperthal
• ideal location for exploring the Cederberg Wilderness Area

Pet friendly? Yes

Location: Biedouw Valley/Wupperthal, Clanwilliam (via N7, R364)

5. Kleine Eike

Where: Greyton
What: This breathtaking fruit and guest farm, situated just outside the quaint countryside town of Greyton, overlooks the towering Riversonderend Mountains, and boasts wonderful riverside views from the Zonderend River, which runs through it.
Distance from CT: 1.5 hours

Facilities:

• newly-built campsite along the riverbank
• each camping spot has its own braai facility and electricity
• bathroom ablutions with 8 shower cubicles and toilets, 10 basins and wash troths

Activities:

• hiking, running, and cycle trails
• canoeing and fishing on the river
• apple and pear picking (January to May)
• Greyton farmers market (every Saturday morning)
• explore the restaurants, galleries, and shops in Greyton

Good to know: The campsite is also available to rent for private functions and retreats.
Pet friendly? Yes
Contact: 082 809 9896, info@kleineeike.com
Location: Kleine Eike Farm, Greyton, Western Cape

6. Driehoek Guest Farm

Where: Clanwilliam
What: A working farm set among the mountains and rivers of the Cederberg. The region provides the ultimate escape from city life and, while the farm is a treasure in its own right, it also serves as a perfect base for exploring what is one of the country’s most hauntingly beautiful landscapes.
Distance from CT: 3.5 hours

Facilities:

• communal ablution facility with toilets, hot showers and a scullery
• limited bedding is available by arrangement (guests are encouraged to bring their own bedding and toiletries)

Activities:

• explore the Cederberg on one of the farm’s many walking trails, passing by rock formations, waterfalls (that flow in winter only), and natural pools where you can enjoy a refreshing dip
• hiking trails in the surrounding mountains (for hardier types)
• Driehoek’s assortment of amicable farm animals (kids will love them)

Pet friendly? No
Good to know: Although the campsite is open all year round, camping in the area during winter is not recommended by management, as winters in the Cederberg are quite severe. However, there are also chalets on site, warmed by fireplaces, that make for a great winter getaway
Insider tip: For those who prefer to visit the site during quiet periods, it’s recommended to visit during the week, before or after long weekends and school holidays. For example, the second half of January, or any time during November.
Contact: 027 482 2828, driehoekcederberg@gmail.com
Location: Driehoek Guest Farm, Cederberg Wilderness Area (via N7)

7. The Baths Natural Hot Springs Resort

Where: Citrusdal
What: Just outside Citrusdal in the scenic Olifants River Valley, this rustic resort dating back to 1739 provides campers with the ultimate relaxing escape.
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours

Facilities:

• 3 communal ablution blocks spaced around the campsite
• braai facilities
• power points

Activities:

• natural hot springs
• hiking trails with views of Olifants River Valley
• children’s playground with trampoline
• tennis court
• explore the nearby town of Citrusdal

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 022 921 8026, 022 921 8032, reservations@thebaths.co.za
Location: The Baths, Citrusdal (via N7, R393)

8. Bonnievale River Lodge

Where: Bonnievale
What: An idyllic riverside setting, surrounded by lush meadows. Campers get to frolic in the river by day, and fall asleep to the sounds of farm animals. It’s a setting that truly lives up to the countryside quaintness of its name.
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours

Facilities:

• 30 campsites in total (some on the upper level with wooden decks and river views, the rest by the river)
• all campsites have power points
• all campsites have braais, but you’ll need to bring your own grid
• ablution facilities with hot-water showers
• shop selling various supplies (only open from October to April)
• firewood available for purchase

Activities:

• fishing and swimming in the river
• canoes available for hire
• small jungle gym for children
• swimming pool in the vineyards
• ideal location for exploring the Robertson Wine Valley

Pet friendly? Yes (on prior arrangement)
Contact: 083 655 1973, bonnievaleriverlodge@gmail.com
Location: Angora Road, R317, Bonnievale (via N1, R60, R317)

9. Rondeberg Resort

Where: Clanwilliam
What: Located on the banks of the Bulshoek dam, this expansive camping site is covered in lush green lawns. Spend the day speed-boating across the water, and, come nightfall, enjoy the picture-perfect serenity as fairy lights illuminate the property. An idyllic location to be sure.
Distance from CT: 3 hours

Facilities:

Private campsites:

• electricity
• private bathroom with shower, basin and toilet
• built-in braai
• paved area for vehicles
• dishwashing facilities
• laundry facilities and tuckshop available onsite

Water’s-edge campsites:

• electricity
• braai facilities
• each campsite has its own bathroom, with a shower, basin and toilet
• laundry facilities and tuckshop available onsite

General campsites:

• electricity
• braai facilities
• bathroom facilities
• laundry facilities and tuckshop available onsite

Activities:

• children’s play area with swings and trampoline
• swimming pool
• boating and watersports in the dam
• hiking trails
• bird-watching
• explore the nearby town of Clanwilliam

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 021 100 3689 / 079 760 0247
info@rondebergresort.co.za
Location: Bulshoek Dam, Clanwilliam (via N7)

10. Ebb & Flow Rest Camp

Where: Wilderness
What: It may be slightly further from Cape Town, but it’s worth the trip. This beautiful campsite is situated in the midst of the Garden Route, one of the country’s most awe-inspiring regions. A river runs past it on one side, while on the other, a blanket of densely wooded forest completely encloses the seemingly small patch of open terrain on which the campsite (and various other appealing accommodation options) are situated.
Distance from CT: 5.5 hours

Facilities:

• both rest camps have communal ablution facilities
• some of the sites are equipped with 220V power points (for caravan plugs only, but three-point plugs can be used with an adapter)
• coin-operated washing machines and tumble dryers are available

Activities:

• swimming, fishing and canoeing in Touw River (as well as some of the nearby lakes and beaches)
• bird-watching
• volleyball and basketball courts
• hiking trails
• paragliding operators are available in the area
• explore the nearby towns of Wilderness and George

Pet friendly? No
Please note: There is no shop or ATM in the Rest Camp
Contact: 044 877 1197, enquiries.wilderness@sanparks.org
Location: Wilderness National Park (via N2)

11. Grootvaderbosch Nature Reserve

Where: Langeberg
What: An enchanted forest, populated by a variety of indigenous tree species. Camping among the towering yellowwoods and ironwoods, and walking along paths that run through densely packed woodland where the sun barely peeks in through the treetop canopy, is an experience that nature enthusiasts are sure to remember.
Distance from CT: 3.5 hours

Facilities:

• 10 campsites with electricity
• two private campsites
• communal ablution facilities with hot-water showers (toilet paper provided)
• thatched communal area with fridge and braai facilities (campers need to bring their own braai grid)
• firewood available for purchase, although supply is sporadic (bring your own to be safe)

Activities:

• children’s jungle gym and play area
• swimming in the Duivenhoks River
• mountain-biking, hiking and walking trails
• bird-watching (around 200 bird species)

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 087 097 9262, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Location: Grootvaderbosch Nature Reserve (via N1, R60, N2 past Swellendam, R324, R322)

12. Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway

Where: Trouthaven
What: Known as paradise by those who’ve experienced it, this campsite just outside Rawsonville is situated on a working fruit and wine farm and is perfect for beautiful getaways.
Distance from CT: 1.5 hours

Facilities:

• each site has private ablution facilities with heated water
• portable braai with two bags of free wood on weekends (available for purchase from the kiosk during the week)
• selected sites have electricity
• kiosk selling various supplies such as firewood, ice, coffee, snacks and fresh farm bread
• bistro (open Monday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm)

Activities:

• trout-fishing
• bird-watching
• three hiking trails (one through a waterfall)
• wine-tasting experiences in the region

Pet friendly? No
Location: Dwarsberg Farm, Louwshoek Voorsorg Road, Rawsonville (via N1, R101)

13. Kam’Bati River Resort

Where: Swellendam
What: This serene riverside getaway, situated on a quiet farm in the Overberg, is a picture-perfect slice of countryside life. The campsite lies under the shade of towering trees on the beautiful banks of the Breede River, offering intrepid explorers a trip into nature, while the town of Swellendam is only a short drive away for those after a cultural fix.
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours

Facilities:

• camping areas offering individual campsites of 90 square metres each
• braai drums are available, but it’s best to bring your own braai in case they’re all in use
• central ablution blocks with hot-water showers
• select plug points
• daily servicing of bins and braai area

Activities:

• swimming pools with water slides
• Putt-Putt course
• pool lounge
• jungle gym
• canoe and tube rides on the Breede River
• fishing
• hiking trails

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 079 200 9098
Location: Jubileeskraal, Swellendam, Western Cape

14. Bontebok National Park

Where: Breede River Valley
What: Located on the banks of the Breede River near Swellendam, the Elsie’s Kraal rest camp offers stunning views of the river and the Langeberg Mountains.
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours

Facilities:

• accommodation options include wheelchair-friendly chalets
• communal picnic and braai sites with ablution facilities
• selected sites have electrical outlets (no private generators allowed)
• provisions available in Swellendam (5km from the park)

Activities:

• swimming, river-rafting and fishing
• bird-watching
• mountain-hiking trails
• ideal for exploring the Breede River Valley, and the nearby town Swellendam

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 028 514 2735, bontebok@sanparks.org
Location: Bontebok National Park, Swellendam (via N2)

15. Tweede Tol

Where: Limietberg Nature Reserve, near Paarl
What:This site is situated in the Du Toitskloof Mountains, close to Bainskloof Pass, at the spot where the original tollgate was built in 1851. Campers will get a taste for the rugged mountain life, surrounded by fynbos, forests and rock-strewn wilderness.
Distance from CT:1.5 hours

Facilities:

• communal washing and hot-water showers
• each campsite has its own braai grid
• firewood can be purchased at the gate
• no power points

Activities:

• Wolwekloof swimming holes (only accessible for overnight campers)
• hiking trails within the reserve
• shaded picnic area with braai facilities and a jungle gym for children

Good to know: For visitors wanting something more private, there are also six fenced-off campsites, each with its own kitchen and bathroom.
Pet friendly? No
Please note:The cost of a permit (R40 for adults, R20 for children) for entering a CapeNature Reserve is not included in the accommodation rate.
Contact: 021 871 1535, reservation.alert@capenature.co.za
Location: Tweede Tol (via N1, R44, R301)

16. Slanghoek Mountain Resort

Where: Rawsonville
What: A well-maintained campsite, set among the vineyards of the Slanghoek Valley. Tents are pitched beside a peaceful stream, and surrounded by green grass with plenty of space for children to play. Ideal for a family camping trip.
Distance from CT: 1.5 hours

Facilities:

• site has its own private washing facilities and hot-water showers
• power points are available, and electricity is included in the rates

Activities:

• horse-riding (every Saturday morning) at the stables opposite the campsite
• Putt-Putt
• swimming pools
• fishing in the dam near the campsite
• short walking trail that leads from the Putt-Putt course to the top of a high hill with impressive views of the surrounding valley

Pet friendly? No
Location: Slanghoek Mountain Resort, Slanghoek Road (via N1, R101)

17. Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

Where: Cederberg
What:This secluded resort boasts a range of unique accommodation options, including unusual suites that have been integrated into the rock so as to resemble caves. But the campsites are surely the most powerful way to experience the sacred majesty of the Cederberg Wilderness Area, with its untouched landscape and awe-inspiring night sky.
Distance from CT: 4 hours

Facilities:

• Swartrug Camp has 5 camping stands (no power), communal ablution facilities with heated water, and a swimming pool
• Bobbejaanskraans Camp can only be accessed by 4×4, has no camping stands, no electricity, no ablution facilities and no water (an authentic camping experience)
• wood and ice can be purchased at reception

Activities:

• the resort has a restaurant, bar, swimming pools and spa
• hiking, mountain-biking and 4×4 trails in the surrounding nature reserve
• bouldering and rock-climbing
• nature drives
• sundowner tours
• quad-bike safaris
• stargazing
• reptile educational talks presented by qualified snake handlers
• tours of ancient rock art sites, with paintings dating back 6 000 years

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 021 872 4343, info@kaggakamma.co.za
Location:Koue Bokkeveld, Cederberg (via N7, R46, R355)
Bookings Campsite accommodation can only be booked by contacting Kagga Kamma directly. However, other accommodation options available on the reserve can be booked online.

18. Wolfkop Camping Villages

Where: Citrusdal
What: A collection of camping villages on the banks of the Olifants River, surrounded by lush green lawns and mountainous terrain. What’s more, the tents are erected on your behalf, saving you the trouble of lugging around heavy camping gear and making for a more comfortable camping adventure that borders on glamping.
Distance from CT: 2 hours

Facilities:

• each of the camping villages has a Bedouin freeform marquee set up for your convenience, as well as several canvas tents stocked with mattresses, bedding and towels
• braai grid, cooking utensils, outdoor table and seating
• electric lighting and power points
• firewood and ice available for purchase

Activities:

• hiking and mountain-biking trails on surrounding farms
• canoes can be hired at Wolfkop for use along the Olifants River
• fishing

Pet friendly? No
Please note: No music or loud noise allowed, unless you book the whole campsite for your group.
Good to know: Wolfkop Camping Villages also runs the Kleinvlei campsite near Hermanus.
Location: Wolfkop Camping Villages, Citrusdal (via N7)

19. Nature’s Valley Rest Camp

Where: Nature’s Valley
What: Visiting Nature’s Valley is like discovering a lost village in the midst of a jungle. The small town, surrounded by the forests, mountains and white-sand beaches of the aptly named Garden Route, has around 50 houses, one store and no malls. This SANParks-operated campsite, located on the banks of the Groot River that flows past the village, provides deep immersion in a secluded region.
Distance from CT: 6.5 hours

Facilities:

• communal ablution facilities
• laundry facilities
• no electricity in the campsite, but the two-bed forest huts have electricity, and ablutions with heated water
• a shop, restaurant and pub are located in the nearby village

Activities:

• bird watching
• hiking trails
• swimming and sailing in the Groot River estuary
• canoes available for hire at the camp
• Nature’s Valley Beach

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 044 531 6700, grace.valela@sanparks.org
Location: Nature’s Valley (via N2, R102)

20. Beaverlac

Where: Olifants River
What: Tucked away in the Groot Winterhoek Mountains above Porterville, this charming no-fuss campsite epitomises the great outdoors in all its rugged majesty.
Distance from CT: 2 hours

Facilities:

• non-demarcated campsites and communal ablution facilities (most have hot-water showers)
• there’s no electricity at the campsites, but there’s a power point and freezer available for use at the camp shop, which also sells wood, beer, wine, ice, snacks, meat, ice cream and cold drinks
• 9 self-catering cabins (most with electricity) are available by arrangement and at different rates
• bring your own braai grid

Activities:

• dog-friendly hiking trails (you may even stumble on some of the area’s ancient rock art)
• swimming in the rockpools scattered along the Ratel River
• mountain-biking trails

Pet policy: R50 per dog per night
Contact: 022 931 2945, beaverlac.kantoor@gmail.com
Campsite bookings can be done online
Cabin bookings can only be done telephonically
Location: Beaverlac, Porterville (via N7, R44, R365)

21. Silwerstrand Caravan Park

Where: Robertson
What: The camping ground forms part of the Silwerstrand Golf and River Estate, a private resort set against the backdrop of the Langeberg Mountains. It’s the perfect base for exploring a valley famous for its wines and natural beauty. While day visitors are allowed, campers gain exclusive access to the river that runs through the estate.
Distance from CT: 2 hours

Facilities:

• most of the campsites have power points and lights
• hot-water showers, bathing facilities
• laundry
• kitchen
• wheelchair-friendly
• braai areas
• firewood available for purchase
• shops available on site

Activities:

• swimming, canoeing and fishing in the river
• swimming pool
• picnic stands
• games room
• children’s playground with trampoline and climbing frame
• Silwerstrand Golf Course
• horse-riding
• hiking and mountain-biking trails
• bird-watching
• wine-tasting in Robertson Wine Valley

Pet friendly? Yes, on prior arrangement
Contact: 023 626 3321 or 076 199 4085
info@silwerstrand.co.za or bookings@silwerstrandcaravanpark.co.za
Location: Silwerstrand Golf and River Estate (Via N1, R60)

22. Vensterklip

Where: Elands Bay
What: Elands Bay is one of the Cape’s hidden gems, and this camping ground grants easy access to the seaside town as well as the famous Verlorenvlei. The collection of campsites and rustic cottages has been expanded, allowing guests closer access to the water, and a bit further up, you’ll have the opportunity to see the pelicans at play. There’s no better way to appreciate the natural wonders of this living landscape.
Distance from CT: 2.5 hours

Facilities:

• 6 private sites with private ablutions, kitchen, and grass area
• Overland sites with sharing ablutions (perfect for those with tents)
• Vleiland sites for campervans with sharing ablutions
• each site has a braai area, lighting, electrical plug points, and washing facilities

Activities:

• hiking trails in the surrounding reserve and fynbos fields
• caves decorated with ancient Khoi-San rock art
• bird-watching in the Verlorenvlei, a vast lake and surrounding marshland populated by a wide variety of plant and animal life, including over 240 bird species
• kayaking and fishing in the Verlorenvlei

Pet friendly? No
Contact: 022 972 1340, info@vensterklip.co.za
Location: Vensterklip (via N7, R366)

Research by Matthew Flax, Kent Cloete, Francesca Grandsen, and Alicia Chamaillé

Source: The Insider’s Guide; https://bit.ly/32RcboL