From 4×4 and backpack adventure camping to glamping with a chef, the popularity of communing with nature is growing once again. Rather than traveling to the home village or places we know, more of us choose to enjoy the natural, peaceful comfort of the environments nearby.
If you like to catch fresh fish for a campfire meal, Khao Chuk Farm in Rayong Province is for you. They have preset or bare sites where you bring your equipment. Camping is also possible at the Rayong Botanical Gardens and Kasetsiri Farm. Surround yourself with maintained natural art.
Gain some elevation and look down from the clouds while at the campgrounds in Ban Rai, Phu Saen Rak, Kanchanaburi. The tent bungalows in Mae Rim, Chaing Mai, called Phu Doi Homestay, are layered on the mountainside with 24-hour breathtaking views of farming plots interspersed in the jungle. North Star Valley is similar but closer to remote glamping.
Owning family camping equipment will give you more freedom to stay in greater isolation or closest to your favorite fishing lake. The Hills at Khao Kho offer family and group tents in the cool mist of mountain pine forest.
Another location with crisp breezes and morning clouds beneath you is Rai Phu Phaya. The tents are spacious, and thick, comfortable mattresses provide a warm place to drift into slumber. Dine in a group or more intimate setting as you watch the sunset. Don’t forget fun camp games for the kids or adults.
Speaking of world-class sunsets, how about some beach camping? Three days and two nights on the Surin islands with guided snorkeling tours include tent, bag, pillow, mattress, and exclusive real estate to call home. Permanent-built bungalows are also available for less ideal seasonal weather.
The Koh Chang archipelago is on the other side of the country from the Surin Islands. You can find remote to adventurous settings for your beach camp and fire. Wai Chaek Beach is isolated, show up prepared with all provisions. Excellent fishing is a line cast away but the nearest convenience is a hike.
Klong Kloi beach is accessible by scooter and oceanside bungalow resorts line the east and north sides of the island. If you want to see the interior of this main island, hire a guide. A thin strip of developed real estate nearly rings the island. The interior is a dense jungle, with monkeys, snakes, and insects you’d rather avoid. This is no beginner’s trek. A list of adventure activities is provided by the Thailand Tourism Directory.
There are multiple small islands accessible by boat. Have a local foreign scuba shop drop you off and pick you up. Wifi is available across the islands although inclement weather and steep mountains can severely hamper communications. I lived on these islands for one year and think they are the most undisturbed places in the Kingdom.
I have personally been to a few of the caravan camping sites. They are pricey in comparison to a beach but offer an air-conditioned camper with a hot water shower, refrigerator, outside grill, and fire pit. These grounds are very fun and active after sunset with roving groups of campers making friends and sharing drinks or food. Enjoy.
