Top Campsites in Cape Town and Surrounds

Relax, unwind and become one with nature at one of these awesome outdoor camping hotspots

Last Update: October 25, 2016

When sunny skies roll in, what could be better than a rustic getaway in the Mother City’s tranquil great outdoors? Cape Town’s
spectacular natural surroundings, majestic mountains, coursing rivers and sweeping valleys make for the ideal setting for such a
laidback camping vacation, and, fortunately, a whole host of spots exist just for this purpose. What follows then is an overview
of some of the most scenic and well-situated campsites and campgrounds in the Western Cape (and arguably the world) to help
you get back to basics.

All you need is a tent, a few trimmings and a penchant for adventure. Good Luck!

PLACES TO CAMP IN CAPE TOWN AND SURROUNDS

AfriCamps Boutique Camping

Set on a beautifully remote spot overlooking a large dam on one of the country’s largest working ostrich farms with the
Swartberg Mountains in the distance, AfriCamps Klein Karoo is actually a mere 10 minutes drive from Oudtshoorn. Here, you’ll
find five luxury boutique camping tents, each equipped to accommodate five people. It’s a peaceful place that provides the rare
opportunity to see large-scale ostrich farming in action. The land is also home to herds of free-roaming indigenous animals,
including zebra, waterbuck, springbok, nyala, kudu, impala, eland and blue wildebeest, which gather to drink at sunset in perfect
view of the decks of each tent. Located slightly northwest of the Garden Route, about an hour from George, AfriCamps Klein
Karoo is the ideal mid-way stop between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, and the perfect base from which to explore Oudtshoorn
and its attractions, including the Cango Caves.
Camping facilities: Each 55sq.m tent features a kitchen, bathroom, living area, two bedrooms and a deck, and is fully equipped
for five people. Tents are fitted with wood stoves and air-conditioning. No pets are allowed.
AfriCamps Klein Karoo Oudtshoorn +27 (0)63 170 4222

Oewerzicht Campsites
Situated in Greyton, Oewerzicht Accommodation and Wedding Venue is the ideal escape for every nature-lover. With 24 grass
campsites nestled on the banks of a river, expect a scenic stay and merry times. There is a range of activities to choose from,
such as mountain biking and hiking trails that provides entertainment for the entire family. This fully operational farm
encourages a loving bond with nature and the outdoors and birding enthusiasts will be pleased to know that blue cranes,
secretary birds and guinea fowl can be spotted.
Facilties: Ablution and braai facilities are available. Guests are welcome to bring their own canoes and fishing tackle

Oewerzicht Farm | Greyton | info@oewerzicht.com | +27 (0) 28 2549831

The Baths Natural Hot Springs

Situated only 2 hours away from Cape Town in the Olifants River Valley, this is the perfect getaway for old those water babies
with a love for nature. With 25 shady caravan and camping sites leading to the baths, a morning and evening will consist of tons
of soothing relaxation time in the hot springs.
Facilities: Three shared ablution blocks are spaced throughout the campsite. In addition, there are braai facilities available, as
well as electrical points.

Citrusdal | reservations@thebaths.co.za | +27 (0) 22 921 8026/7

Beaverlac
Situated up in the Cederberg region’s Olifants River Mountains (approximately two to three hours from Cape Town),
Grootfontein farm, Beaverlac’s homeland, adjoins the Groot Winterhoek Mountain Catchment Area and the Cederberg Leopard
Conservation Area. The natural heritage site is surrounded by wild mountains and is an ideal camping spot for nature lovers and
those seeking some much-needed tranquility and quiet. Facilities include both designated campsites and more formal cabins
with toilets and showers (some with hot water), as well as a well-equipped shop that stocks a range of goods – wood, wine,
beer, ice, meat, tinned foods and toiletries amongst other goods. Campers can partake in a variety of activities in the
surrounding area including hiking and mountain biking, swimming and fishing in nearby mountain rock pools and rivers. There
are also several caves on the farm, some of which are decorated with rock paintings that are protected by the National
Monuments Acts.
Facilities: Gates open at 7am and close at 9pm | There is no electric points in campsite | Cash only | Own braai grid in required
Grootfontein Farm | +27 (0) 22 931 2945 | www.beaverlac.co.za
Tweede Tol
This scenic campsite is found on the beautiful Bains Kloof Pass (roughly one hour from Cape Town) and is part of the Limietberg
Nature Reserve – a vast 102 000ha of mountains, wildlife and fynbos. The site offers 20 standard campsites, all of which have
their own designated braai area (don’t forget to bring your own braai grid). Hot and cold water ablutions are available, as well as
firewood at the main gate, a public telephone and a jungle gym. In addition, there are seven fenced off private campsites, each
with its own kitchenette, shower and toilet should you wish to have a more private camping site. There is a maximum of six
people and two cars allowed per each campsite. The facility also has a picnic site that can hold up to 100 visitors and a number
of short, fun hikes with breathtaking views.
Camping Facilities: No electrical points, although a generator supplies the communal ablution facilities, ensuring hot water and
lighting until 10pm nightly | It is essential to book beforehand, especially during peak seasons and school holidays | No pets are
allowed
Limietberg Nature reserve | Paarl | +27 (0) 21 483 0191

Mountain Breeze Resort and Caravan Park

Located about five kilometers outside Stellenbosch, Mountain Breeze resort is ideally located close to the artisanal market and
wine farms. If you’re looking for shady days and a serene surroundings, then Mountain Breeze Resort delivers on both. Expect
large a large spacious camping area where you can relax and enjoy the simpler things in life.
Facilities: Electricity points are available, as well as a children’s playground, swimming pool and braai area.

R44| Stellenbosch | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 880 0 200

Palmiet Caravan Park

This caravan park and campsite in the picturesque small coastal village of Kleinmond (roughly 90 minutes from Cape Town)
boasts 170 stands in totals – approximately 100 caravan and 70 tent sites – where six people are allowed per a site. The
ablutions facilities are clean and modern with hot showers and baths as well as flushing toilets. The scenic seaside region in
which the campsite is located is one of Cape Town and surrounds’ top spots for whale watching from August to November.
What’s more, the site also has direct access to the beach and lagoon as well as the Palmiet River which is ideal for a number of
activities such as swimming, canoeing, tubing and boardsailing. For the land-loving campers, there are many hiking paths in and
around the area from which wildlife and bird can be observed. The park itself is beautifully grassed and terraced with well-
established trees and shrubs to divide the stands and providing majority with much-needed shade.
Camping Facilities: No pets are allowed
Palmiet Road | Kleinmond| gveden@overstrand.co.za

Clanwilliam Bulshoek Dam Camping Accommodation

Located approximately 23km outside of the charming town of Clanwillaim and only two hours from Cape Town, this rustic
campground lies along the banks of the Bulshoek Dam, making it the perfect getaway for both nature and water-sport lovers.
Found on a working piggery, the family-run farm is a safe environment for the whole clan where the camping sites are found on
lush lawns (some even have their own private ablution facilities). The Bulshoek Dam is ideal for water-sport enthusiasts as
power boating, skiing, canoeing are a common occurrence as well as boasts an outstanding fishing spot for Bass and Carp. Boats
are safe in the dam as launch sites are close to the camping sites.
NOTE: All camping sites are fully booked from 21, December 2015 to 3, January 2016.
Cost (Rates are per night): R250 per site
Camping Facilities: Ablution facilities available (separate shower and toilet) | Electricity available (guests must just bring their
own long extension lead and caravan plug adapter) | Braai facilities | Shade is limited and owing to the areas heat, it is advisable
guests bring enough gazebos and shade covers.
Bulshoek Dam | +27 (0) 72 124 7747

De Pakhuys
De Pakhuys is nestled in the Rocklands climbing area and it offers both glamping and camping experiences. Situated 26km from
Clanwilliam, this guest farm offers an intimate and cozy camping experience that will have you coming back for more lengthy
camping stays. The eleven campsites are located beneath tall bluegum trees that provide an abundance of shade and boulders
that characterizes Cederberg perfectly,
Facilities: De Pakhuys offers ablution facilities that includes showers with hot water. Braai facilities are available and the
campsite is located 100m from a lake which is perfect for swimming.

De Pakhuys | Vleiplaas | Clanwilliam | +27 (0) 27 482 1879

Imhoff Park
Located in the charming village of Kommetjie on the Atlantic side of the Cape Peninsula (only 40 minutes from Cape Town city
centre), this laidback resort and campground – which is situated only 100m from popular surfing spot Long beach – makes for a
relaxed seaside getaway. There are 75 level, grassed stands for caravans and tents; some which have more shade than others.
All stands have 15amp electricity and built-in braai facilities (remember to bring your own grid) and are surrounded by
strategically planted trees, shrubs and islands of fynbos in aim to separate the stands. The well-maintained site has clean
ablution blocks that are semi disabled-friendly (although accessible with a wheelchair, assistance may be needed). In addition to
the host of things to do in the area, there is also ample opportunity for entertainment for both adults and kids’ on the property
with an on-site children’s playground and a games room consisting of a table tennis table, a pool table and also a separate TV
room available for camper’s use.
Camping Facilities: The campsite is wheelchair-friendly with assistance and all roads are tarred and the area is well lit at night |
No dogs are allowed
66 Wireless Road | Kommetjie | +27 (0) 21 783 1634

Bontebok National Park Campsite

Nestled below the Langebaan Mountains just three hours from Cape Town is this diverse and colourful conservation reserve,
Lang Elsie’s Kraal rest camp is perfectly located for those nature lovers seeking to soak up the sights, sounds, smells and serenity
of the breathtaking indigenous surroundings. The three-part campground comprises 41 camping and caravan sites located close
to the Breede River – each accommodating six people. Although not all sites are equipped with electrical outlets, no private
generators are permitted on site. Being comfortable and charmingly rustic, the spot has communal bathrooms and showers with
warm water. There are no kitchen facilities available, and hence campers are advised to bring their own cutlery and cooler
boxes. To wring the most out of the scenic setting, a number of adventurous activities are on offer in the area; these include
hiking, bird watching, mountain biking and game viewing, as well as canoeing, fishing and swimming in the Breede River, which
runs through the park.
Camping Facilities: Guests should bring their own braai grid and firewood | Tap water comes from a well point and is safe to
drink
Lang Elsie’s Kraal | Bontebok national Park | +27 (0) 28 514 2735
Read more about Bontebok National Park.

River Goose Campsite

Found roughly two and half-hours from Cape Town, near Bonnievale on the banks of the Breede River Eureka farm is a grassy,
well-shaded camping spot home to the River Goose Campsite. The prime location makes a wealth of activities possible, including
swimming, fishing, canoeing, rowing, bird watching and cruises on the Goose River Boat (at an extra cost). Guests have a choice
of 15 campsites, some which have more shade than others. In addition, campers looking to do a bit more in the area can visit
the Marloth Nature Reserve near the small town of Swellendam, visit Soekershof in Robertson which has 10 hectares of mazes
made out of plants, as well as the Robertson Gold Course.
NOTE: Campers are advised to make bookings in advance, as space at the site is limited.
Camping Facilities: All sites share an ablution block with flush toilets, shower and hot water | No electricity, but do have solar
power in ablution blocks | Wood and braai facilities are available | Pets are allowed in off-peak seasons only
Farm Eureka | Bonnievale | +27 (0) 82 759 5727

Slanghoek National Park

At Slanghoek Mountain Resort, the campsite is situated on the Slanghoek stream and positioned between the vineyards. The
enchanting surroundings offer the perfect getaway from busy city life and families will find a ton of activities to keep little ones
entertained. This peaceful and tranquil setting is perfect for a relaxed and calming break. Take your hiking boots and mountain
bike to enjoy the views.
Facilities: Six people are allowed per campsite, not including children aged 3 years and younger. Discounts are offered on
weekdays. It is recommended to bring an umbrella along during the hotter months.

Slanghoek Road | Rawsonville | +27 (0) 23 344 3138

Table Mountain National Park Campsites

Extending all the way from Signal Hill to Cape Point, this vast and varied world heritage site – which amongst rocky coastlines,
sandy beaches and sweeping valleys, includes Cape Town’s iconic landmark Table Mountain – claims three separate well-
appointed tented camps ideal for retreating from the hustle and bustle of city life. Somewhat more luxurious than your classic
campground, each site – Orangekloof in a forest in Hout Bay, Slangkop in the seaside village of Kommetjie and Smitswinkel near
the entrance to Cape Point – features a number of slightly raised, eco-friendly timber structures equipped with single beds and
mattresses (don’t forget to bring your own bedding, or at an extra cost ask for bedding prior to arrival). While Orangekloof and
Slangkop have clean communal ablutions, braai facilities and fully equipped kitchen and dining areas in an on-site boma,
Smitswinkel has private basic self-catering kitchenettes and en-suite bathrooms. However, Smitswinkel has no washing up or
braai facilities and it is advised and perhaps easier to use the boma communal area. Although all the wooden tent huts make
three supremely comfortable accommodation options, in keeping with the nature surroundings, none have electricity but
instead are supplied by gas. Activities available at each camp are varied as the locations themselves, but range from hiking,
cycling and picnicking to surfing, swimming, Cray-fishing and snorkeling.
Camping Facilities: All camps offer hot water | Fire wood can be bought at an extra cost, otherwise guests can bring their own |
Each camp accommodates a maximum of 12 people | All camps are easily accessible by car and have dedicated parking areas
Table Mountain National Park | +27 (0) 21 712 7471
Read more about accommodation in the Table Mountain National Park

Tankwa Karoo National Park Campsites

Eight unique campsites lie interspersed among the striking moonscapes, mountains cliffs, rich plant life and open arid plains of
this unconventional park (which is located at the boundary of the Western and Northern Cape, approximately four hours from
Cape Town). There are two campsites located at Langkloof and another six located at Perdekloof. The limited number of stands
at Perdekloof and Langkloof each come with a private bathroom (equipped with a shower, toilet and basin), braai amenities
(without grid) and a personal enclosed kitchen that claims a sink, but no cooking equipment. Paraffin lamps at Langkloof and
solar power at Perdekloof, as well as gas geysers at both; ensure sufficient lighting and warm water. In addition, there are also
informal sites, which are definitely best suited for those eager to rough it. These sites are small, unrefined open stands for
pitching tents and no ablutions blocks, fresh water or other amenities are present. Owing to the harsh terrain, most of the
camps, including the two official grounds, can only be accessed with high clearance 2x4, or a 4x4 vehicle during the wet season.
Although bird-watching, stargazing and technical driving are all viable pastimes in this stark but spectacular setting, the selection
of endemic wildlife that roam the area – think kudu, gemsbok, duiker, tortoises, red hartebeest and zebra – making game-
viewing a good option too.
Camping Facilities: No electrical points | Stand 1 and 5 at Perdekloof are best suited for roof top tents.
Tankwa Karoo National Park | +27 (0) 27 341 1927
Read more about Tankwa Karoo National Park

Plettenberg Forever Resorts, Plettenberg Bay

Situated just off the N2 on the western bank of the Keurbooms River (near the river mouth), in the heart of the beautiful Garden
Route, the spectacular Nature Resort sits pretty as a perfect hideaway for weary city-dwellers. The resort has a total of 116 sites
where 33 are river sites (with power points) and 83 are standard sites (with power points). There are two ablution facilities on
site where paraplegic male and female bathrooms are situated next to ablution 1. Campers have an array of on-site activities to
keep themselves busy while visiting the resort including putt-putt, canoeing, fishing, volleyball and swimming to name but a few
as well as many off-site activities such as visiting the elephant or snake sanctuary, the Knysna forest, Monkeyland and Rhino
Base Camp among many other wonderful things to do and visit! Not to mention, nearby campers have kilometres of beautiful
and pristine beaches at their disposal ready to be explored.
Camping Facilities: Maximum eight people per site | All sites have power points | Rate are per night – minimum two nights over
weekends and school holidays and four nights over long weekends | Only suitable, recognised tents, caravans and motor homes
allowed to camp in the park.