We have scouted some of the best locations to pitch up.
Some of our greatest memories are with family and friends enjoying South Africa’s back yard.  Reignite those nostalgic feelings and have a look through our list of camping spots in South Africa. Each campsite has its own reasons for making the list - from hiking trails, rivers for swimming, mountain bike trails to expanses of untouched landscape to simply take in. You will find great camping spots within an hour or two from Cape Town.
The natural beauty of the Western Cape makes it one of the most attractive and diverse destinations in the world. Cape Town boasts beautiful beaches as well as the impressive Table Mountain. A short drive up the West Coast and you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time, with quaint whitewashed fishing villages. The wine country is as beautiful as the wines that are produced there. There’s so much to do, be prepared to extend your stay.

CAPE COLUMBINE NATURE RESERVE

This is the most westerly destination of the Western Cape. Declared a nature reserve in December 1973, Cape Columbine is located near the fishing village of Paternoster. A magical fact about this reserve is that it boasts the last manually controlled lighthouse in South Africa. Take in the charm of this seaside campsite and hike beautiful trails littered with West Coast fynbos and Karoo succulents. There are also unforgettable sunsets across the Atlantic Ocean to soak up.
Distance: about 90 min from Cape Town
Cost:: call 022 752 2718 for more information

BEAVERLAC

Summer is the best time for a visit to Beaverlac. With its deep rock pools and beautiful waterfalls, this picturesque natural heritage site is an ideal cool down from the heat. Look out for rock paintings on the caves around Grootfontein farm that have been preserved by the National Monuments Act. Beaverlac is a well equipped campsite with a shop that sells wood, snacks, drinks and other basic items. A perfectly tranquil getaway.
Distance: 2 hrs and 14 min from Cape Town
Cost: R15 per car, adults R45, kids (aged 4-11) R25, kids under 3 FREE
Website: www.beaverlac.co.za

MATROOSBERG PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE

Usually reserved for weekend trips to see snow during the coldest bouts of South Africa’s winter, Matroosberg is a great retreat in summer too. It’s location is idyllic under the shady pine trees beside the Spek River. Tranquility at its best in this fairly small and peaceful camping area, which is a little way from the chalets and houses on the reserve. Treat your inner-adventure junkie to activities ranging from abseiling, kloofing and target shooting. With rock pools within walking distance from the site, laze in the sun and cool off with an afternoon swim. The best of both worlds is offered at Matroosberg.

Distance: 2 hrs from Cape Town Airport
Cost: Adults R50, kids (aged 3-13) R30
Website: www.matroosberg.com

With acknowledgement to SPAR Savour Magazine.