{"id":31795,"date":"2025-10-08T11:20:46","date_gmt":"2025-10-08T09:20:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=31795"},"modified":"2026-03-12T09:46:47","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T07:46:47","slug":"gauteng-camping-and-glamping-escapes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/gauteng-camping-and-glamping-escapes\/","title":{"rendered":"Gauteng Camping and Glamping Escapes: Best Places to Visit for Your Next Nature Break"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Gauteng\u2019s constant rush makes weekends in the bush more than a luxury; they\u2019re a necessity. Luckily, the province offers some of South Africa\u2019s most rewarding camping and glamping spots, from mountain hideaways to Big 5 reserves and lakeside retreats. Whether you enjoy sleeping under a star-filled sky or in a luxury canvas suite with a hot shower and Wi-Fi, Gauteng has a site waiting for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALSO READ: Summer 2025 at Thaba Eco Hotel: Picnics and World-Class Hospitality<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why Camping in Gauteng Is Still a Local Favourite<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

More Gauteng residents are trading city lights for campfires. The province\u2019s top sites are all within two hours of Johannesburg or Pretoria, making quick getaways easy and affordable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These escapes reconnect families with nature and teach young campers about conservation, wildlife, and South Africa\u2019s outdoor heritage. And for travellers who prefer comfort to camp chairs, glamping, which is glamorous camping, now lets first-timers experience the wilderness without giving up modern luxuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are ten of Gauteng\u2019s best camping and glamping destinations, each with its own character, scenery, and sense of adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Mountain Sanctuary Park, Magaliesburg<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Privately owned and tucked deep in the Magaliesberg mountains, Mountain Sanctuary Park<\/strong> is famous for its clear rock pools and dramatic cliffs. Hikers, birders, and mountain bikers explore its quiet trails before relaxing at the bar or braai area as the sun drops behind the hills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a true sanctuary, tranquil, scenic, and just over an hour from Johannesburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde Contact:<\/strong> +27 14 534 0114 | Email:<\/strong> owen@mountain-sanctuary.co.za<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> www.mountain-sanctuary.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Johannesburg<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

2. Dinokeng Fishing & Camping, Roodeplaat Dam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Only 50 km from Pretoria, Dinokeng Nature Reserve<\/strong> is a leader in eco-tourism and conservation. Dinokeng Fishing & Camping<\/strong> combines authentic bushveld camping with the chance to spot the Big 5 and learn about ongoing wildlife rehabilitation work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With clean ablution blocks, safe stands, and guided drives, this is South African adventure at its most accessible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde Tel:<\/strong> +27 12 711 4391<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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campandfishindinokeng.co.za<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

3. Bush Willow Tented Camp, Muldersdrift<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for comfort without losing that outdoor charm, Bush Willow Tented Camp<\/strong> delivers. Just 30 minutes from both major cities, it\u2019s a favourite for families and couples seeking countryside calm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Guests can fish at dawn, gather around the fire at night, or visit nearby attractions such as the Cradle of Humankind. Each walk-in tent includes electricity, warm showers, and soft beds; proof that camping doesn\u2019t have to mean roughing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 11 668 1600 | Email:<\/strong> bushwillow@glenburn.co.za<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> guvonhotels.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SA-Venues.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

4. Bass Lake Camp, Henley on Klip<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At Bass Lake Exclusive Camping<\/strong>, tranquillity meets modern convenience. Families come here to fish, hike, and enjoy quiet time under shady trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you need a break from braaiing, head to Spencer\u2019s Restaurant<\/strong> for a good meal. With spacious campsites and top-class facilities, Bass Lake is ideal for both weekenders and first-time campers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 12 735 1650 | Email:<\/strong> camping@basslakelodge.co.za<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> basslakelodge.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Bass Lake<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

5. Olifantspoort Bush Camp & Caravan Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For a wilder experience, Olifantspoort Bush Camp<\/strong> offers hiking, mountain-biking, birdwatching, fishing, and even donkey-cart rides. Every stand comes with electricity, water, and shade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s safe, family-friendly, and filled with simple outdoor pleasures, ideal for photographers and parents seeking quiet time alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 14 717 3969 | Email:<\/strong> olifantspoort@telkomsa.net<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> olifantspoort.yolasite.com<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tripadvisor<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

6. Willem\u2019s Rus Camp, Dinokeng Nature Reserve<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Few camps let you watch free-roaming wildlife from your tent, but Willem\u2019s Rus Camp<\/strong> does. Set inside Dinokeng, it\u2019s one of Gauteng\u2019s best bush getaways. Expect to see antelope or giraffe wander past while you braai under the stars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Only 50 km north of Pretoria, this malaria-free Big 5 reserve blends wilderness with comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 81 702 2989 | Email:<\/strong> willemsrus28@gmail.com<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> willemsrus.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Willem’s Rus<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

7. Nkwe Camp, Pretoria East<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Nkwe Camp<\/strong> offers the perfect mix of city convenience and country calm. Surrounded by shady trees, its natural rock pool and small waterfall make it one of Pretoria\u2019s most popular summer spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each site has electricity, clean bathrooms, and braai facilities. Families love the setting for its safety and simplicity, close enough for a day trip, peaceful enough for a full weekend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 12 811 5231 | Web:<\/strong> nkwepark.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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www.nkweresort.co.za<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

8. Kaia Manzi Camp, Bronkhorstspruit Dam<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If water relaxes you, Kaia Manzi Camp<\/strong> is a must. Overlooking the Bronkhorstspruit Dam, it offers boating, fishing, and swimming all day long. Multiple pools, shaded picnic lawns, and family chalets make it a great multi-generation escape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At just an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, it\u2019s one of the easiest weekend getaways around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 71 851 1346 | Email:<\/strong> info@kaiamanzi.co.za<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> kaiamanzi.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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ikamu=camping<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

9. Malonjeni Game Farm, Heidelberg<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

South of Johannesburg on the R42, Malonjeni Game Farm<\/strong> spreads across 270 hectares of open farmland. Safari tents remain the highlight, close to the pool and braai areas but private enough to feel wild.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a laid-back farm stay where you can finally kick your shoes off and breathe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 71 103 0409 | Email:<\/strong> bookings@malonjeni.co.za<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> malonjeni.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SafariNow<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

10. Rametsi Private Game Reserve, Lindleyspoort<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

About two hours from Gauteng, Rametsi Private Game Reserve<\/strong> fills its schedule with canoeing, fishing, hiking, and volleyball. The wide, open stands and mountain views make it ideal for travellers wanting both rest and activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\ud83d\udcde +27 71 280 0638 | Email:<\/strong> info@rametsi.co.za<\/a> | Web:<\/strong> rametsi.co.za<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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SafariNow<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Beyond the Tent: Glamping Takes Over Gauteng<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Glamping, short for glamorous camping, continues to grow across the province. Resorts like Adama Artistic Chalets & Teepees<\/strong> and Leadwood Safari Camp<\/strong> in the Dinokeng Game Reserve feature king-sized beds, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms under canvas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Dinokeng Game Reserve<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

These retreats prove that adventure and comfort can live in harmony: you can wake up to birdsong and still have your cappuccino brewed just the way you like it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rediscover the Great Outdoors<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Whether you crave silence, wildlife, or family bonding, Gauteng\u2019s campsites show that nature isn\u2019t far, it\u2019s just off the highway.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each visit supports local tourism, conservation, and small-town economies. So this season, grab your tent or your overnight bag, leave the noise behind, and let Gauteng\u2019s wild side remind you how adventure begins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Gauteng\u2019s constant rush makes weekends in the bush more than a luxury \u2014 they\u2019re a necessity. Luckily, the province offers some of South Africa\u2019s most rewarding camping and glamping spots, from mountain hideaways to Big 5 reserves and lakeside retreats. Whether you enjoy sleeping under a star-filled sky or in a luxury canvas suite with a hot shower and Wi-Fi, Gauteng has a site waiting for you<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":31828,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"Gauteng\u2019s constant rush makes weekends in the bush more than a luxury \u2014 they\u2019re a necessity. Luckily, the province offers some of South Africa\u2019s most rewarding camping and glamping spots, from mountain hideaways to Big 5 reserves and lakeside retreats. Whether you enjoy sleeping under a star-filled sky or in a luxury canvas suite with a hot shower and Wi-Fi, Gauteng has a site waiting for you","footnotes":""},"categories":[53],"tags":[11303,999,210],"class_list":{"0":"post-31795","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-visit-gauteng","8":"tag-local-attractions","9":"tag-things-to-do-in-gauteng","10":"tag-top-attractions-in-gauteng"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31795","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31795"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31795\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31830,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31795\/revisions\/31830"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/31828"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31795"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31795"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31795"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}