June is Thailand's National Camping Month, and we couldn't think of a better time to highlight the country's incredible camping destinations! From adventurous hikes to idyllic mountain panoramas, camping in Thailand should definitely be on your travel list. Camping and outdoor activities allow for safe social distancing while giving you the chance to discover hidden gems off the beaten track – for an extraordinary trip like no other.

Thailand is home to over 100 national parks with extraordinary sights and countless adventure opportunities. Birdwatch and discover over 500 bird species in Doi Inthanon National Park, hike in Thailand's largest national park, Kaeng Krachan, explore waterfalls and immerse yourself in the nature of Khao Yai, and experience the morning mist in Phu Tub Berk.

In Thailand, there are no limits to adventure. Let's take a look at some of Thailand's most popular camping destinations.

Doi Inthanon National Park

After setting up camp amidst the towering pines, you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable camping experience. Exquisite wildlife, magnificent twin pagodas, and breathtaking mountain panoramas are just some of the many attractions in Doi Inthanon National Park. Birdwatch and discover over 500 species, including the scaly-scaled merganser, black-throated thrush, blackbird, roseate finch, and collared hawfinch. Also, be sure to visit the park's twin pagodas, Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon and Nophamethanidon. The culture and history of these pagodas will captivate you.

Camping in Doi Inthanon National Park is comfortable and straightforward. All you need is a light jacket, camping gear (if you have it), toiletries, a towel, comfortable hiking boots, and money for park fees and food. If you don't have your own camping equipment, you can buy or rent many items at the campground headquarters.

Kaeng Krachan National Park

As Thailand's largest national park, Kaeng Krachan National Park offers rich wildlife, breathtaking panoramic views, and adventurous hiking trails. The park is home to 400 bird species, 300 butterfly species, and 50 mammal species. Among the most commonly encountered animals are dark langurs, snub-tailed macaques, white-handed gibbons, and black giant squirrels. Just a few hundred meters west of the campsite lies one of the most beautiful viewpoints: from there, you have a fantastic view of the mist and the Tanaosri Mountains on the border with Myanmar.

In Kaeng Krachan National Park, you have a choice of four campsites. One is located next to the campsite administration, two are more centrally located within the park, and one is right by the Pala-U Waterfall. Prices may vary depending on the amenities included (e.g., camping equipment rental).

Khao Yai National Park

Established in 1962, Khao Yai National Park is Thailand's second largest park and offers a beautiful riverside campsite. Take a guided two-hour hike to the Nong Pak Chi Wildlife Tower, where you can observe gibbons, tigers, elephants, and many other wild animals. At the top, a breathtaking panoramic view awaits. Adventurous campers can climb 199 steep steps to discover the impressive Haew Narok Waterfall, which plunges 150 meters.

Camping in Khao Yai National Park is possible at the Lumtakong campsite. There you can rent everything you need, such as camping equipment, pillows, blankets, and sleeping mats. A beautiful bridge nearby marks the start of the park's walking trail – ideal for hiking or simply strolling in nature.

Phu Tub Berk

From the drive to the campsite to the misty mornings, Phu Tub Berk offers unforgettable experiences. A winding road leads to a viewpoint where you can stop and photograph the mountains and the town before continuing on to the campsite. Phu Tub Berk is known for its sea of ​​mist that spreads between the hills, offering unobstructed views of the sky for miles. The best time to experience the mist is during the green season when the clouds are particularly visible. For Milky Way lovers, when the sky is clear, you can sit back and admire the twinkling stars.

Near the campsite is a cabbage field with rows of fresh cabbage, glowing in vibrant shades of green at sunset. Prices for camping equipment rental vary.

Thailand insider tips for the best camping experiences

Naliwan Kuvanant, founder of Trucker Daughter and Suka, is an avid camper, surfer, and adventurer from Bangkok. Thailand Insider spoke with Naliwan about her camping experiences in Thailand and compiled some of her tips that will surely be very helpful on your next camping trip to Thailand!

Insider tip no. 1:

It is recommended to hire a guide or request a ranger for exploratory tours, as hiking trails in Thailand are often difficult to find because, unlike in the USA, there is usually no signage. Since we share the area with neighboring countries like Myanmar, some areas are closed. However, park guides will help you navigate the park and avoid these restricted areas. They will also provide information about the park's history and additional insider tips for hiking trails.

Insider tip no. 2:

Camping is inexpensive compared to the US. You don't need to book or reserve a campsite in advance. You can simply drive up, pay the fees, and entry costs less than $10. Be careful when traveling during Thai holidays, as traffic can be heavy.

Insider tip no. 3:

Her favorite campsite is Kanchanaburi. It's not that far from Bangkok, about a three-hour drive. The weather is beautiful, the jungle is a protected area, and there are countless waterfalls. She recently visited the Erawan Falls, which are blue and crystal clear. They're comparable to the Havasupai Falls in Arizona.

Insider tip no. 4:

Thailand has a large number of camping enthusiasts. This growing community has opened up entirely new possibilities for camping. Glamping sites are everywhere, in shopping malls and at trade fairs. It's almost become a fashion trend.

Start planning your camping adventure in Thailand!

Now that you're an expert on camping in Thailand, it's time to plan your adventure! Many other camping destinations in Thailand are worth visiting, including Ang Thong National Marine Park, Doi Suthep Pui National Park, Khao Laem National Park, and many more. We look forward to you experiencing Thailand's nature, wildlife, and idyllic landscapes!