If you sometimes feel the need to escape our modern hectic lifestyle and want to reconnect with nature. Then camping may be the perfect getaway for you. Camping is one of the best ways to truly experience nature. Offering an idyllic setting of you and some friends or family sitting under the night sky, surrounded by nature, around your campfire, it can really be the perfect getaway.
Camping on the west coast of South Africa is a very popular getaway, so there are many camping sites available. However, this can make it difficult to decide which camping site is best for you. That is why we have put together this list of our top 4 picks for camping sites on the west coast so that you can have the best camping experience possible.
Kliphoek River Resort
Situated on one of the oldest family farms on the west coast. This camping site is on the banks of the Berg River allowing you to enjoy all the splendours of the river. Offering a truly relaxing setting to unwind, with the river’s flowing water as a tranquil backdrop.
With a total of 9 campsites on the premises, each one allows a maximum of 8 persons, and have parking for 2 vehicles, so there is enough space for the whole family. Each campsite also has its own private ablution facilities. These facilities include a shower, washbasin, outside sink, and a toilet, with hot water provided by a solar geyser. They also have 2 outdoor electricity outlets, so you don’t have to completely disconnect. These lovely campsites are guaranteed to give you a camping experience to remember.
There are many activities offered at Kliphoek River Resort, such as hiking trails along the river or into the surrounding veld. The resort is also situated in the heart of a bird sanctuary that is home to a large variety of bird species, that are sure to excite any birdwatcher.
They do also allow cycling, though it is recommended to bring a mountain bike for the terrain. There are also water activities like skiing, swimming, and even canoes to rent. They also have a tennis court and children’s play area, so even the kids have something to do.
All of this can be found a mere hour and a half drive from Cape Town. Their prices vary from R300 – R1000 per night for a site, depending on the number of people. This really is the most idyllic riverside camping site on the west coast, and it is perfect for the whole family.
Sanddrif Holiday Resort
Located on the Dwarsrivier farm in the heart of the Cederberg Wilderness area, and is home to the Cederberg Private Cellar. This magical location is surrounded by majestic rock formations, expansive fynbos, and San rock art. It is perfectly situated to enjoy the natural splendour of the Cederberg mountains.
The resort has two separate camping grounds. The main campsite with 31 campsites on the Matjies river bank’s shaded lawn. Which has two shared ablution blocks, with hot water provided by solar geysers, electricity at every site, and braai facilities (bring your own grid).
There is also the Kliphuis campsite with 10 campsites underneath old oak trees. Which has one shared ablution block, with hot water, electricity, and braai facilities(bring your own grid). These campsites provide the essentials while letting you reconnect with nature.
There are many activities at this campsite, especially for adventure seekers. With hiking trails going through the Cederberg mountains, with rock paintings amongst the rocks to see. For the more adventurous there is rock climbing and mountain biking to get the heart racing. Alternatively, if you want more leisurely activities you can swim in the river and nearby rock pools, or go stargazing. There are even craft beer and wine tastings on offer at the cellars that will satisfy any connoisseur.
This beautiful camping site is a three-hour drive from Cape Town. Their prices start at R440 per site per night for 4 persons. They charge R110 per extra person, with a maximum of 8 people per site. These are the two best campsites on the west coast to experience the majestic Cederberg mountains, and all they have to offer.
Klipkrans
This campsite on the edge of the Breede river, is on a private game farm, making it ideal for any wildlife enthusiast. With an abundance of wildlife including Oryx (Gemsbok), Zebra, Springbuck, Blue wildebeest, Duiker, Steenbok, and even the shy Klipspringer. This relaxing setting is the ideal getaway to enjoy nature alongside its native inhabitants.
There are a total of 36 large campsites along the Breede river banks, that have plenty of grass and shade. Each site has electrical outlets, and braai facilities. There are communal ablutions, with toilets, and hot water showers. There is also an honesty kiosk that sells basic necessities like firewood, ice, and even game meat.
There are a variety of activities on offer at Klipkrans. Offering beautiful hiking trails, that also allow mountain biking, with game watching and birdwatching throughout the trails. Alternatively, you can spend your time by the river swimming or canoeing. Fishing is also allowed with Carp, Black Bass, Barbel, and Eels found in the Breede river. If you are looking for a challenge there is also a 4×4 route for the adventurous.
This lively camping ground is an hour and a half drive from Cape Town. Their prices start at R115 per person per night for adults, and R80 per child (5 – 12 years) per night. Of all the camping sites on the west coast, Klipkrans offers the most natural experience, with wildlife often coming through the camp at night.
Dwarskersbos Beach Resort
If you are looking for a camping site on the west coast that is by the beach then look no further than Dwarskersbos Beach Resort. This beachside campsite is the perfect place for any ocean-loving camper. With beautiful white sandy beaches, fresh sea air, and the sound of the waves it is the perfect seaside campsite.
The resort has a total of 125 camping stands with electrical outlets, that are level but not grassed, with plenty of shade. There are braai facilities, rubbish bins, and water taps throughout the camping grounds so you are never far from these essentials. The comprehensive ablution blocks offer toilets, baths, showers, and washing machines. These campsites have all the essentials allowing you to enjoy the beach without any worries.
With the beach right outside your tent zipper, there is no shortage of activities available. You can enjoy many beach activities like swimming, surfing, and fishing (with an angler’s license). There are also hiking trails amongst the sea dunes, which are known for their beautiful plant life. You can also go birdwatching and see many coastal bird species. There is also a playground to keep the children busy.
This seaside paradise is just north of Velddrif, about a two-hour drive from Cape town. Their prices start at R170 per stand per night on a weekday or R300 per stand per night on weekends. This camping site on the west coast is the perfect option for those wanting to spend their holiday in the ocean.
Those are our top 4 picks for camping sites on the west coast. There is something for everyone, no matter what you are looking for. So if you want to get as close to nature as possible, we recommend that you visit one of these camping sites on the west coast.
Not sure you want to rough it? Try glamping in the Western Cape. Looking for other camping sites? Read our article on Cape Town Campsites.