Five Of The Best Campsites Out Of Gauteng

by | Mar 4, 2024 | Outdoors, Featured

If you’re looking for a weekend camping escape out of Gauteng, we’ve put together a list of the top five campsites that offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city without having to travel too far.

Fortunately for those of you who live in Gauteng, you don’t actually have to travel too far out of the city to be able to pitch a tent for a night or two to breathe some fresh air and sleep under a canopy of stars. Featuring scenery and excellent amenities these campsites promise an unforgettable outdoor experience. We’ll keep updating it as we go along.

Mountain Sanctuary Park Camping Site

Location: Magaliesberg, 120 km from Johannesburg

Tucked away in the heart of the Magaliesberg Mountains Mountain Oasis Campsite is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With camping grounds and well-kept facilities like hot showers and clean washrooms, this site stands out for its proximity to hiking trails that lead to stunning landscapes and panoramic mountain views. Thrill seekers can also enjoy activities like rock climbing and abseiling making it an ideal spot for those seeking a getaway.

Za Zeo Bush Camp

Location: Dinokeng Game Reserve, 90 km from Pretoria


Za Zoe Kamp is a rustic campsite with eight stands in the malaria-free Dinokeng Game Reserve. Each campsite has access to its own power and water supply. The campsite offers three full ablutions with a shower, basin and toilet which can be privately booked, as well as 1 half ablution with just a basin and toilet. The campsite has a communal washing-up area and each campsite has access to its own braai. What sets this place apart is its connection to nature. Picture drifting off to sleep with the soothing sounds of the wilderness and waking up to the majestic sight of giraffes grazing nearby.

Campsites To Camp In Near Gauteng
(c) Ben Duchac / Unsplash

Hartbeespoort Resort

Location: Hartbeespoort, 80 km from Johannesburg

The Hartbeespoort Holiday Resort is a lush resort spread across 20 green hectares, nestled beneath a mountain range. It provides a range of accommodation options from camping sites, caravan spots, and safari tents to cabins and chalets. It is a paradise for kids featuring pools, waterslides and a range of activities. Plenty of water activities are on offer in the iconic Hartebeespoort Dam, including fishing, canoeing, skiing and sailing. With its proximity to markets and other attractions in Hartbeespoort (trail running and canyoning), campers have the chance to immerse themselves in local culture and cuisine during their stay.

Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve Campsites

Location; Heidelberg, 90 km from Johannesburg

For those craving a more rugged camping adventure Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is a hidden treasure nestled in Heidelberg’s hills. Surrounded by plants and animals this campsite offers a peaceful retreat into nature. Basic amenities, like ablution blocks and barbecue areas cater to campers seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

Hiking paths wind their way through the reserve providing glimpses of antelope and a variety of bird species. The stargazing options at the reserve make it a perfect spot for astronomy lovers.

Campsites Near Gauteng
(c) Kyle Johnson / Unsplash

Kgaswane Mountain Reserve Camping

Location: Rustenburg, 130 km from Pretoria

For a camping adventure that combines natural beauty with historical significance (as well as access to great hikes and trail running trails), Kgaswane Mountain Reserve is an excellent option. Campers can pitch their tents under the shade of trees while enjoying amenities like clean bathroom facilities and shared cooking areas. The reserve boasts biodiversity with hiking trails leading to viewpoints that offer stunning panoramic views. The presence of sites such as Iron Age ruins and rock carvings adds a cultural aspect to this outdoor escape.

Each of these camping spots provides a mix of natural beauty and recreational activities making them perfect for travelers seeking an overnight or weekend getaway from the urban hustle and bustle.

There you go, it is possible to find a bit of adventure, some decent wildlife sightings and lush serene camping sites near Gauteng. So pack up your camping gear hit the road and lose yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes, outside the city confines. For more, check out some Nature Reserve Trails near you to run this year.

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