Wild about SA – Best campsites

There’s no better way to escape the urban grind than by hitting a remote campsite with your tent or caravan. We asked our Facebook community for their favourites…

Storms River Mouth and Nature’s Valley
These remain firm favourites and it’s little wonder. Nature’s Valley is tucked away in forest glades bordering the Groot River, and Storms River is about as close to the sea as you could possibly camp without needing a wetsuit. There’s walking and snorkelling and the coastal scenery is mindblowing. Contact 012-428-9111, e-mail reservations@sanparks.org, web www.sanparks.org.

Cederberg
As expected, the Cederberg featured prominently, with Algeria (tel 022- 931-2088 or 0861-227-362-8873, e-mail cederberg@cnc.org.za, web www.capenature.org.za), Sanddrif (tel 027-482-2825, e-mail sanddrif@cederbergwine.com, web www.cederbergwine.com) and Driehoek (tel 027-482-2828, web www.cederberg.co.za) all featuring. In reality this is a win-win situation as they are all equally wonderful but the Getaway editor’s long-time favourite has been Driehoek because of the great swimming pools and proximity to a number of the best day walks.

Kruger National Park
A number of Kruger Park rest camps featured on the list, including Maroela near Orpen Gate and Balule near Olifants. The editor would also add Letaba. While these are special, the campsites in most of the main camps are clean and tidy with good ablutions and facilities. After all, Kruger is not about the place you sleep but rather the incredible beasties that often lurk outside the camp fences. Contact 012-428-9111, e-mail reservations@sanparks.org, web www.sanparks.org

Mahai
For sheer breathtaking scenery, there can be no beating the mountain campsite of Mahai in the sweep of the Mont-Aux-Sources Amphitheatre in the Royal Natal National Park. Sites are located on the trout-rich Mahai River and walking enthusiasts will do their nut on the walks and trails in the surroundings. Tel 033-845-1000, e-mail webmail@kznwildlife.com or web www.kznwildlife.com.

Cape Vidal
If you’re looking for a blend of wildlife and beach, look no further than Cape Vidal. This cosy campsite nestled in coastal dune forest is the kind of place you keep on going back to. Spend your days game viewing in the park or fishing and diving the warm subtropical waters of the Indian Ocean. Tel 033-845-1000, e-mail webmail@kznwildlife.com or web www.kznwildlife.com.