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22 Best Affordable Camping Sites Near Cape Town That Make Nature Accessible!

| Last Updated: November 2024

Tired of pricey hotels that don’t give you that authentic nature experience? Yeah, me too!

After pitching my tent at a few sites and getting a taste of the outdoor lifestyle, I found that camping doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. That’s why today, I’m sharing the best affordable camping sites in Cape Town that won’t hamper your experience.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, these spots offer the perfect mix of relaxation and nature without the hefty price tag!

Appleton Scout Camp

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Website: https://westerncape.scouts.org.za/facilities/appleton-scout-camp-2/ 

Address: Signal Hill Road, Signal Hill

Distance from the city centre: 18-minute drive

Phone: +27 21 685 8420

Price: R300 to R1800

Appleton Scout Camp offers a peaceful spot surrounded by nature, with views over the city and the ocean. I’ve spent time here, pitching my tent on the hill and enjoying the simplicity of the campsite.

The days are filled with outdoor activities like hiking, exploring Signal Hill, or just relaxing in the shade. In the evening, watching the sunset over the Atlantic or stargazing adds a quiet, reflective end to the day.

Pro Tip:
Be sure to check with the warden about campfire restrictions before planning a braai or campfire.

Apostle Battery Campsite

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Apostlebattery/ 

Address: Victoria Road, Llandudno

Distance from the city centre: 27-minute drive

Phone: +27 21 790 4810

Price: R100 to R1000

Apostle Battery Campsite may not be the actual historic site, but it’s a peaceful spot close to Llandudno Beach. I found it ideal for budget campers, with the scenic surroundings and a friendly, well-kept environment making it easy to relax.

The staff were great, especially when helping with team-building and leadership activities. If you’re in a group, they even offer catering with hearty meals like chicken pasta and braai dinners.

Pro Tip:
Pack a beach bag for Llandudno Beach, just a 5-minute drive from the camp, ideal for a quiet swim or sunset walk.

Black Pearl Wines

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Website: https://blackpearlwines.com/ 

Address: Rhenosterkop Farm, R44 Campground Rd, Paarl

Distance from the city centre: 42-minute drive

Phone: +27 83 447 0195

Price: R400 to R1500

Black Pearl Wines offers a wonderful camping experience on the slopes of Paarl Mountain. The family-run farm blends a love of winemaking with sustainability, allowing visitors to enjoy nature while supporting conservation efforts.

I enjoyed a peaceful stay at one of their campsites, complete with all the basics like power points. A hike through the nearby nature reserve let me take in the beauty of the endangered renosterveld (a kind of vegetation).

Pro Tips:
The Paarl Adventure Trail runs through the property, offering a thrilling route for cyclists.Make sure to sample the limited-edition wines at the cellar door for a laid-back experience with the winemaker herself.

Rocklands Centre

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Website: https://www.rocklandscentre.co.za/ 

Address: 77 Rocklands Rd, Murdock Valley

Distance from the city centre: 51-minute drive

Phone: +27 21 786 2501

Price: R250 to R1000

Rocklands Centre, nestled on a mountain with views of False Bay. During my stay, I appreciated the relaxed atmosphere, which made it easy to connect with friends and share meaningful moments together.

Accommodations are straightforward, with dorms and tents that free up funds for fun activities like campfire s’mores. The meals are taken care of on-site, so there’s no need to worry about cooking.

Pro Tip:
Day visits can be arranged by email, but availability may vary. It’s a great option for groups wanting to explore the area without staying overnight.

Wyzersdrif Campsite

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Website: https://wyzersdriftcamp.co.za/ 

Address: Goudini Way, Rawsonville

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-10-minute drive

Phone: +27 76 276 1840

Price: R300 to R1600

Wyzersdrif Campsite has a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to nature enthusiasts who appreciate simplicity. I’ve set up my tent in both basic and powered spots, making it easy to find a comfy base for a weekend getaway.

The shared bathrooms are clean with hot showers, ideal for rinsing off after a day outdoors. I enjoyed evenings in the communal braai area, sharing stories with fellow campers while grilling under the stars.

Pro Tips:
Pack extra warm clothing, as nights can get chilly, even in warmer months.Don’t forget your insect repellent and a sturdy windbreaker for those breezy afternoons.

Slanghoek Mountain Resort

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Website: https://www.slanghoekresort.co.za/ 

Address: Slanghoek Rd, Rawsonville

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-12-minute drive

Phone: +27 23 344 3138

Price: R750 to R1300

Slanghoek Mountain Resort feels like a true escape in the Slanghoek Valley. It offers a range of options for everyone, from those who love camping to those who prefer glamping.

If you’re like me and enjoy the outdoors but prefer a touch of comfort, the Safari Tents are a great choice. With cosy beds, a fridge, and a private bathroom, you can enjoy the camping experience without sacrificing too much comfort.

Pro Tip:
Bring your own bike for the best experience, as the trails around the resort offer stunning views and varying difficulty levels to suit all riders.

Tweede Tol

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Website: https://www.capenature.co.za/accommodation/tweede-tol 

Address: S33.5697023, E19.1382486 R301, Bainskloof Pass

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-23-minute drive

Phone: +27 21 483 0190

Price: R250 to R1500

Tweede Tol offers a camping experience surrounded by the stunning Du Toitskloof Mountains. I found the site rich in history, marked by the original tollgate from 1851, and the natural beauty of the fynbos and forests made my stay quite memorable.

The campsite has hot-water showers and individual braai grids that made my stay comfortable, and I could buy firewood at the gate since there are no power points. I enjoyed the exclusive swimming holes, hiking trails, and a shaded picnic area.

Pro Tips:
Keep edibles in your car boot instead of your tent to avoid attracting baboons. If you encounter a baboon, never feed them, as this encourages them to approach humans and can lead to aggressive behaviour.

To protect the grass, use ground sheet nets rather than closed canvas sheets while camping.

Batis & Bass

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Website: https://batisandbass.co.za/ 

Address: Breede River, Ceres

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-23-minute drive

Price: R1350

Batis & Bass has a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for those who appreciate nature and enjoy a classic camping experience. The spacious campsites nestled in the fynbos bushes are inviting, with the Klein River nearby for swimming and kayaking.

I opted for the Bass Camp Site, which includes essential ablution facilities and electricity points. It’s pet-friendly with prior arrangements, and the fishing here is fantastic. There’s bass, carp, brown trout, and tilapia!

Pro Tip:
When fishing at the camp, try early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to catch bass and trout. These fish are more active during cooler parts of the day, so be sure to have your gear ready for a rewarding experience!

Kroonland 4×4

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Website: https://kaaimansgat.co.za/  

Address: Overberg on the farm Kaaimansgat

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-37-minute drive

Phone: +27 82 567 4570

Price: R50 to R800

Kroonland 4×4 offers a lovely camping experience right next to a stream. I enjoyed setting up my tent in the grassy areas or opting for a bunk in one of the wooden cabins, which have beds only.

The campsite has basic amenities like hot showers and a braai area for evening gatherings. With limited shade and beautiful fynbos surrounding the site, it’s an inviting place for both nature lovers and families, especially since it’s pet-friendly.

Pro Tip:
Take your time on the 15 km circular 4×4 route to fully appreciate the stunning views and diverse fynbos along the way; it’s best suited for small groups, so plan your visit accordingly.

Fraaigelegen Farm

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Website: https://www.fraaigelegenfarm.co.za/  

Address: 239 Weltevrede, R46, District, Tulbagh

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-37-minute drive

Phone: +27 71 404 2766

Price: R350 to R3000

Fraaigelegen Farm offers a simple camping experience where you can wake up to the peaceful sight of vineyards and olive groves. I enjoyed taking a walk along the farm trails, enjoying the fresh air and watching the free-range chickens and peafowl.

The campsite has clean facilities and electricity points, which made our stay even more comfortable. I also liked unwinding by the communal boma, where you can easily meet other guests over a barbecue, sharing stories under the stars.

Pro Tip:
Grab a bottle of their award-winning ADHARA EVOO extra virgin olive oil for a real taste of the farm. You can also pick up local table olives, honey, fresh eggs, and wood for your campfire.

Noah Farm Campsite

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noahfarmcampsite/ 

Address: Boontjiesrivier, Wolseley

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-37-minute drive

Phone: +27 76 847 7950

Price: R200 to R1000

Noah Farm Campsite offers a quiet escape with stunning mountain views and plenty of space. Each site has its own private bathroom and a small kitchen area, so you can cook and relax without waiting in queues or missing out on home comforts.

I spent my evenings cooking outdoors and soaking in the wood-fired hot tub. The surrounding trails are perfect for hiking or biking, and the fresh air made the experience even better. 

Pro Tips:
There’s no electricity, so reliable lighting is essential for nighttime activities.

The gravel road to the campsite can be rough, and a 4×4 is recommended for easier access.

There are no shops nearby, so ensure you bring all your supplies, including food, water, and firewood.

Champagne Campsite & Cottage

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Website: https://www.farmchampagne.com/  

Address: Champagne, Greyton

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-44-minute drive

Phone: +27 84 510 9573

Price: R490 to R1500

Champagne Campsite offers a peaceful riverside experience, and I stayed at the Willow Tree Site, which had plenty of space and privacy. The site is fully shaded with a power point, water tap, and a braai drum.

I liked that the site was grass-covered and had a lovely view of where the mountain stream meets the river. The shared bathroom was nearby, and the flowing water made for a refreshing swim after a long day.

Pro Tip:
The campsite is on a working farm, so expect some tractor movement and farm tasks during weekdays. However, weekends are usually quiet, and any disruptions will be communicated in advance.

Waterval Campsite

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Website: https://www.22waterfalls.com/  

Address: R64 Road, Waterval Farm, Porterville

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-48-minute drive

Phone: +27 82 878 1358 

Price: R450 to R1850

Waterval offers a laid-back experience surrounded by nature, with shaded spots near the river for setting up your tent. I appreciated the option of having electricity at some sites, but I also enjoyed the more rustic areas where I could disconnect fully.

The highlight for me was hiking the trails to see the waterfalls up close and cooling off in the natural pools. The campsite’s clean facilities and well-spaced pitches made the stay comfortable while still feeling close to nature.

Pro Tip:
To avoid disappointment, make sure to pre-book your weekend day visit or hike in advance. Only 20 day visitors are allowed, so calling ahead is essential!

Oewerzicht Farm Cottages & Campsite

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Website: https://oewerzicht.co.za/ 

Address: Off N2, Greyton

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-49-minute drive

Phone: +27 28 254 9831

Price: R200 to R2150

Oewerzicht Farm’s campsites provide a peaceful spot along the river, with grassy areas, reeded shade, and power points. The ablution facilities are modern, and there’s a safe place to swim or float down the river.

I’ve enjoyed exploring the hiking trails and taking on the 20 km mountain bike route, which added a good challenge. The portable wood-fired hot tubs were a welcome addition, especially after a day spent outdoors.

Pro Tip:
For a local experience, visit Greyton’s village markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Then drop by Lismore Farm Estate, just a short drive away, for a wine tasting.

Kleine Eike

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Website: https://www.kleineeike.com/   

Address: R406 Road. S34.1037318, E19.6691651, Greyton

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-52-minute drive

Phone: +27 82 809 9896

Price: R400 to R1500

Kleine Eike Greyton provides a camping experience beside the Sonderend River, surrounded by mountains and valleys. Since 2008, this family-owned site has welcomed nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, creating a friendly atmosphere.

With clean ablution blocks and a communal kitchen, the campsite makes it easy to enjoy meals together. I loved the braai area for grilling under the stars, and the nearby river was great for a peaceful day of fishing or canoeing.

Pro Tips:
If you’re camping with children, make use of the playground and encourage them to explore the surrounding nature safely.

Keep your camera handy for birdwatching; the area is home to various bird species, so it’s a great opportunity for nature photography.

Khomeesdrif Camping Site

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Website: xplorio.com/riviersonderend/khomeesdrif  

Address: Kleinplasie, Riviersonderend

Distance from the city centre: 1-hour-and-55-minute drive

Phone: +27 82 937 0053

Price: R300 to R1000

Khomeesdrif offers a peaceful camping experience with grassy, shaded sites by the Riviersonderend River. The clean ablution facilities include solar-powered showers, and nearby amenities like restaurants and a pharmacy make for a comfortable stay.

Activities abound, from swimming and fishing to hiking and mountain biking. I enjoyed birdwatching, spotting kingfishers and eagles, and soaking in the starlit sky after a day filled with outdoor fun.

Pro Tips:
If you’re bringing a pet, ensure you notify the site in advance and familiarise yourself with their pet-friendly rules.

Take advantage of community activities like potjiekos competitions (stew cooking contests) and concerts for a unique experience and to mingle with other guests.

Beaverlac

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Website: https://www.beaverlac.co.za/ 

Address: Porterville, Western Cape

Distance from the city centre: 2-hour-and-12-minute drive

Phone: +27 22 931 2945

Price: R50 to R400

Beaverlac is a nice spot for nature lovers, and I’ve found it has a protected area with plenty to explore. I enjoy the range of camping options, from spacious tent pitches to comfortable cabins, which help connect you to the outdoors.

The camp is surrounded by mountains and has two rivers nearby, making the scenery pleasant. I’ve appreciated the hiking and biking trails, where I’ve spotted black eagles and baboons, while the sound of the streams adds to the experience.

Pro Tips:
Ensure you have your camping approval and permit ready. A snapshot saved on your phone works, but make sure your phone is fully charged since there’s no reception at Beaverlac.

After checking in, you can choose your site, as there are no reserved or demarcated spots. It’s first come, first served. Aim to arrive during gate hours (8 AM to 5 PM), and note that campsites do not have electricity.

The Baths Natural Hot Springs

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Website: https://thebaths.co.za/caravans-camping/  

Address: The Baths Road, Citrusdal

Distance from the city centre: 2-hour-and-15-minute drive

Phone: +27 (0)22 921 2141

Price: R190 to R3000

The Baths is a historic getaway that offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, catering to both campers and families. I’ve enjoyed the hot and cold spring pools, which allow you to choose your ideal temperature.

The chalets and flats come with fully equipped kitchens, or you can fire up the braai and have a meal outside. There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, including a kids’ playground, tennis, pool, mountain biking, and birdwatching.

Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for something different, the on-site restaurant has a nice a la carte menu, while the convenience shop stocks all the essentials. 

Kam’bati River Resort

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Website: https://www.kambati.co.za/  

Address: Jubileeskraal, Swellendam

Distance from the city centre: 2-hour-and-16-minute drive

Phone: +27 79 200 9098

Price: R500 to R1000

Kam’Bati offers a range of camping options that cater to different preferences. I’ve enjoyed pitching a tent on the grassy sites with electricity and staying in the comfortable self-catering cabins that sleep four and include kitchens and braai facilities.

For a unique touch, the glamping tents offer comfy beds and private bathrooms with lovely views from the deck. The resort also features a swimming pool, mini-golf, and a jungle gym for kids, making it a great place for outdoor fun and relaxation.

Pro Tip:
Just a short drive away, Swellendam offers charming historical buildings, art galleries, and local eateries that are worth exploring.

River Goose Camp Site

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Website: https://rivergoosecampsite.co.za/ 

Address: Farm Eureka, Gelukshoop Road, Bonnievale

Distance from the city centre: 2-hour-and-20-minute drive

Phone: +27 82 759 5727

Price: R180 to R500

River Goose Campsite is a great spot to unwind in nature, with 22 grassy plots, many shaded for those hot days. Each site comes with a braai area, and I found the clean ablution blocks with hot showers and toilets just a short walk away.

What I love about this campsite is the no-electricity policy, which really encourages you to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. Days spent splashing in the Breede River are filled with the sounds of birdlife, and fishing can add a bit of excitement to your stay. 

Pro Tips:
Enjoy a boat cruise any day of the week, but check the river and weather conditions for the best experience.

Don’t forget to challenge your friends to a game on the volleyball sand court available for guests.

For a unique experience, you can feed the sheep at the fence for just R5 a bucket.

Platbos Forest Owl Camp

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Website: https://platbos.co.za/platbos-accommodation/the-owl-camp/  

Address: Platbos Forest Reserve, Farm no. 987, Grootbos Rd (Minor Rd 4026), Gansbaai

Distance from the city centre: 2-hour-and-22-minute drive

Phone: +27 82 4110448

Price: R600 to R1500

The Owl Camp is tucked beneath a beautiful old white stinkwood tree, providing a unique spot for camping enthusiasts. With only one stand available, it feels private and inviting, ideal for couples or small groups who want to escape into nature.

This site accommodates tents or 4×4 camper vans and features a fire pit and open-air shower. I appreciated the communal freezer in the Freezer Hut, which kept our food fresh while enjoying the peaceful forest atmosphere.

Pro Tips:
The mountain river here is untreated, so bring your own drinking water to stay hydrated.

Be cautious of wild bee nests in old tree trunks; if you see a ‘bee tree’ sign, walk quickly past it.

During summer, bring insect repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay; avoid using pesticide sprays.

Doringlaagte Camping & Chalets

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Website: https://doringlaagte.com/  

Address: Derde Heuwel, Montagu, Winelands

Distance from the city centre: 2-hour-and-27-minute drive

Phone: +27 72 021 9069

Price: R200 to R2500

Doringlaagte Resort features a selection of 15 self-catering chalets beside the dam. It provides a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy the serenity of the outdoors while packing light, as bedding and towels are often provided.

Camping here meant I could dive into the dam for a refreshing swim or choose from five sparkling pools if I preferred a chlorine-free option. I also enjoyed a variety of activities, from fishing and hiking to mountain biking and even a round of mashie golf.

Pro Tips:
Practise “leave no trace.” Keep the area clean and preserve its natural beauty for future visitors.

If you’re bringing children or plan to swim in the dam, remember to pack life jackets for safety.
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