A little bit of gratitude goes a long way, and there’s nothing that leaves you feeling more grateful than spending time in nature.
There are endless benefits to pitching a tent and frying eggs on your skottle each morning, including freedom, disconnecting from technology and embracing the great outdoors.
But with winter right on our doorstep, the thought of embracing Mother Nature while it’s chilly outside might not be all too appealing. Nevertheless, we’re looking to stay warm this winter while enjoying the great outdoors, pitching our tent and making sure we have our K-way jackets handy.
Here are 5 camping spots that are perfect for a wintery getaway:
Kleine Eike
Kleine Eike is a beautiful destination that’s nestled on a working fruit farm and is nestled in the nature-rich Overberg region. Fresh air, lush greenery and a flowing river ensure that this gorgeous campsite is heaven for those looking to escape the noise of the city. Each camping spot has its own braai facility and electricity, with 8 shower cubicles and toilets.
- Location: R406, Greyton, Overberg
- Cost: R600 per night per site for up to 4 people
- Contact: www.kleineeikie.com
Owl and Forest Camp – Platbos Forest
Platbos is considered Africa’s Southernmost Forest and is renowned for being botanically unique with some trees being over 1000 years old. Along with a plethora of forest trails, it’s also home to a few camping spots – perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the sweet calls of nature. If you’re new to camping you may want to give this one a skip as it’s completely off-the-grid and uses old-school donkey boilers to heat the water. Hey! But it’s all part of getting closer to nature, right? Bring your own tent if you’re looking to enjoy the beauty of the Owl Camp, or enjoying a bit of a “glamping” vibe with the Forest Camp.
- Location: Platbos Forest Reserve, Farm no. 987, Grootbos Road (Minor Rd 4026), Gansbaai
- Cost: Prices depend on which camp you decide to call home for a few days.
- Contact: www.platbos.co.za
Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve
Affordable camping in the heart of the Klein Karoo. This little slice of historical heaven is surrounded by the picturesque Karoo Valley and pre-historic rock formations. Don’t let the arid landscape full you, this private nature reserve is teeming with life, including springbok, gemsbok, zebra, grey rhebuck, duiker, steenbokkie, klipspringer, and some say, the elusive leopard. There are two campsites, namely De Wet’s Rus and Echo Valley. Kitchen and cold running water, a communal braai area, and communal ablution facilities are available.
- Location: Gecko Rock Private Game Reserve, Nougaspoort Valley, Western Cape
- Cost: R140 per night | R190 per night
- Contact: www.geckorock.co.za
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve
Another Cederberg gem, Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve offers a simple camping spot for those looking to get in touch with nature. Enjoy the starry sky and the rugged landscape that the Cederberg is famous for, with a swimming pool and spa just around the corner for those looking to enjoy an escape that’s a little less rugged.
- Location: Koue Bokkeveld, Cederberg
- Cost: R145 per person per night
- Contact: www.kaggakamma.co.za
Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway
Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway is located in Rawsonville and nestled along the Holsloot river. They offer 15 beautiful campsites to choose from, each offering electricity and hot water. There’s plenty to do in this area too, so bring your mountain bike, hiking boots, and fishing rod for a tranquil winter’s getaway.
- Location: Koue Bokkeveld, Cederberg
- Cost: R240 per person sharing
- Contact: www.trouthaven.co.za
Also read:
Stellies scientists chosen for TIME 100 Most Influential People list
Picture: Kleine Eike / Instagram
