We can’t think of a better pastime to enjoy nature than camping, so with Thailand’s gradual opening, this will be an excellent alternative to consider. Camping in Thailand is plentiful and varied, ranging from those in spectacular jungles teeming with wildlife to those in mountainous regions with breathtaking vistas to take in while you pitch your tent.
In addition, camping and other outdoor activities provide an opportunity for healthy social detachment and offer the ideal pretext for exploring tourist destinations that lie off the usual route. More than one hundred national parks can be found throughout Thailand. Each of these parks is home to spectacular natural wonders and offers a wide variety of exciting outdoor activities. Next, we will go through several potential locations for camping. Each of them is worthy of a visit lasting many days, and camping may be the most convenient way to get to know them all.
Doi Inthanon
Camping at Doi Inthanon National Park is a relaxing and uncomplicated experience. To be able to walk the different routes, all you need is a light jacket, your own camping equipment such as a sleeping bag, mat, and tent, and comfortable shoes. If you do not bring your gear with you, you will be able to rent it at the park’s visitor center. Also, keep in mind that you will be required to pay an admission charge, and if you do not have your own food with you, the park features a number of restaurants that you may visit in order to satisfy your hunger.
It is possible for us to witness how the vegetation changes as we ascend because the mountain is traversed by a road that winds its way through the terrain until it reaches the highest point of the park, which is also Thailand’s highest point. You won’t find many places in the rest of the country where you may camp amid pine trees like this one. Doi Inthanon provides visitors with the opportunity to hike on any one of its many routes, many of which lead to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the country. This is one of the best places in the world to observe birds, and there have been sightings of approximately 500 different species. The vast array of avian life that inhabits the mountain is in direct proportion to the elevational gradient that separates its lower and higher reaches.
Kaeng krachan
Because of its position, Kaeng Krachan National Park, which is Thailand’s largest national park, is home to a diverse collection of animal and plant life. There are 400 kinds of birds, 300 kinds of butterflies, and 50 kinds of mammals that call this natural region home. Gibbons, langurs, macaques, and giant squirrels are some of the species that are easier to spot than others.
There are four different camping places within the park, and with the exception of the first, which is situated right adjacent to the park’s administration building and tourist center, the other camping areas provide some of the most remarkable opportunities to see wildlife in all of Southeast Asia. It is conceivable, although not very likely, to catch a glimpse of a number of mammalian species that are normally quite elusive, such as the leopard.
Khao Yai
The Khao Yai National Park is the second largest park in Thailand and is home to a stunning camping spot that is situated beside the river. You may rent anything there, including sleeping bags, pillows, blankets, and insulating mats. It has everything you could possibly need. A track that leads into the heart of the forest can be accessed from one of the park’s bridges, which are located very near this location.
Another intriguing excursion is the one that leads to the observation tower of Nong Pak Chi. From this vantage point, it is possible to see elephants and deer that come to the area to lick the salt that is released from a tiny pond. This occurs most frequently in the evening after sunset. It is recommended that campers who are more daring climb the steep stairs that lead to the top of the remarkable Haew Narok waterfall, which has a drop of 150 meters. The waterfall is located in the middle of the campground.
Phu Tub Berk
The path takes you through a winding road that eventually brings you to a lookout point where you may pull over and take in the expansive vista that encompasses both the city and the surrounding mountains. Phu Tub Berk is famous for the sea of mist that often accumulates and spreads between the hills, which makes it possible to see for miles and miles without any obstructions. The wetter months are ideal for taking in this show, so plan your visit accordingly. When the night sky is perfectly clear, this location is ideal for photographing the Milky Way, making it a great destination for people who are interested in astronomy and photography.
Thung Salaeng Luang National Park
The national park of Thung Salang Luang may be found in the region that is shared by the provinces of Phetchabun and Phitsanulok. It is a natural region consisting of expansive savannahs that routinely see daybreak break through the mist. There are wonderful perspectives of the park to be had from the camping area, particularly in the early morning hours when the sun’s rays are just beginning to lift the layer of fog that has settled over the landscape.
Pang Ung
One of the Thai highland development projects that Queen Sirikit was particularly interested in was called Pang Ung. Approximately forty kilometres separate it from the city of Mae Hong Song, which is located relatively near Myanmar’s border. A camping place can be found within the lake that has an alpine appearance. Because of the incredible beauty of the first rays of the light penetrating the trees and the mist and reflecting on the surface of the lake, people come from all over the world to see the sunrises in this region.
Doi Suthep Pui National Park, Khao Laem National Park, and Ang Thong National Marine Park are just a few of the areas in Thailand where you may go camping. In addition to the places already mentioned, Thailand has many more locations where you can go camping.
What to bring with you on a camping trip to Thailand
When packing for your camping trip to Thailand, it’s important to keep in mind the tropical climate and unique cultural customs. Here are some essentials you’ll want to bring with you:
- Clothing: Light and breathable clothing is a must, especially since temperatures can climb upwards of 90°F during the day. Make sure to also pack rain gear, as sudden downpours are common.
- Footwear: A sturdy pair of hiking boots or sneakers is key for exploring the many national parks and trekking trails throughout Thailand. Don’t forget flip-flops or sandals for relaxing at camp.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance in Thailand, so make sure to pack plenty of bug spray with DEET.
- Sun protection: With its proximity to the equator, Thailand has intense sunlight year-round. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts/pants made from UV-protective fabrics.
- Camping gear: If you’re bringing your own tent, make sure it’s lightweight and easy to set up, given that transportation infrastructure may not always be reliable in remote areas. Sleeping bags rated for warmer climates are ideal too!
The best time of year to go camping in Thailand
Thailand is known for its warm weather, which makes it a great place to camp all year. But the best time to go camping in Thailand relies on what you like and what you want to do there.
From November to February, Thailand has its dry season. This is the best time to go camping. Compared to other months, the weather is cooler and it rains less during this time of year. This makes it a great time to go sightseeing in Northern Thailand or to hop from island to island along the coast.
If you want a quieter trip with fewer people, you might want to go between March and May or September and October, which are the summer seasons. Even though it’s a bit hotter and muggier, there are still plenty of things to do outside, like climbing and swimming.
Between June and August, during the rainy season, heavy rains can cause floods and landslides in some places of Thailand.
In the end, the best time to go camping in Thailand depends on what you want out of the trip. Whether you’re going on a quiet vacation or a wild trip to explore natural areas and national parks, make sure you pack the right things!
How to set up your campground in Thailand
There are a few things to keep in mind when setting up your camping in Thailand. First, choose a spot that is flat and free of rocks or other sharp items that could hurt you.
Once you’ve found the right spot for your tent, clear the ground of any trash or sticks. This will make sure that the place where you are staying is clean and good for sleeping.
Next, carefully follow the instructions that came with your tent to set it up. Make sure to lock all four sides of the tent so that it doesn’t fly away when the wind is strong.
Make sure you are cooking in a safe way at your campsite. If a fire pit is available, use it, or bring a small stove. Keep an eye on fires at all times, and never leave them alone.
When you set up your site in Thailand, be careful not to hurt the environment. When setting up your spot, don’t bother wildlife or hurt plants. When you pack up and leave a camping place, don’t leave anything behind so that future people can enjoy the natural resources.
What to do while camping in Thailand
Camping in Thailand can be a special, once-in-a-lifetime event. From the beautiful scenery to the lively culture, there’s always something new to learn about this beautiful country when you go camping there.
Take some time to learn about your surroundings when you’re out in nature. Go hiking or biking through the bush, swim in a cool stream, or give fishing a try. You could also talk to people in the area and learn about their customs and way of life.
At night, sit around a campfire with your fellow travelers and tell stories while eating delicious food from the area. Take advantage of this unique chance to get away from technology and talk to each other again.
In short, there are a lot of different things you can do in Thailand if you go camping. So get your stuff together and head out into the great woods.
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