10 Best Western Cape Campsites To Visit in 2024

Looking for the next Western Cape campsite to tick off your travel wishlist? Why not try one of these campsites below. 

Melkhout Guest Farm

Where: Bonnievale

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 2 hours

About this campsite

Melkhout Guest Farm offers camping enthusiasts a serene retreat amidst nature, with generously spaced campsites nestled between Eucalyptus trees along the Breede River and the scenic Langeberg mountains. 

There are five carefully placed campsites, each providing campers with a private haven to wake up to the peaceful river waters. Enjoy the luxury of a personal wooden deck, ideal for relaxing with chairs, tables, or even setting up a tent.

Facilities

  • Electricity for device charging and appliance use.
  • Private bathrooms with toilet, shower, and kitchen sink.
  • Convenient wash-up area for kitchen tasks.
  • Fire pit at each site for traditional braais and cosy gatherings.
  • Reminder: Bring your own drinking water; river water is not potable.

Things to do

  • Explore scenic trails by hiking or biking.
  • Take a refreshing dip in the Breede River.
  • Enjoy diverse fishing experiences in the river and a scenic dam, with a catch-and-release policy.
  • Birdwatch amidst the farm’s diverse avian population.
  • Embark on kayaking adventures with provided equipment for safety and enjoyment.

Pet friendly: Yes. Be sure to take a look at their rules for camping with dogs.

Rates: R450 per campsite per night for 2 people, R520 per campsite per night for 3 people, R600 per campsite per night for 4 people. R150 per additional person per night for more than 4 on-site (up to 8 people). Children under 10 years old stay free.

Maximum number of people per site: 8 people

Oaksrest Vineyards

Where: Ladismith

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 3.5 hours 

About this campsite

Located in the picturesque Dwarsriver Valley at the foot of the majestic Swartberg Range, Oaksrest Vineyards Guest Farm is a serene escape just off the R62 near Ladismith. Easily accessible, it’s only 3.5 hours from Cape Town, 2 hours from George, and 1 hour from Oudtshoorn.

The campsite features four spacious lawn stands nestled amidst the vineyards and overlooking the tranquil Pinotage Lake area, offering a peaceful setting for campers. Each stand is equipped with essential amenities such as electricity, water, and braai facilities. Guests can enjoy leisurely activities like fishing, canoeing, and swimming in the dam, complemented by lush gardens and a wooden deck for relaxation. 

A luxurious 5-star ablution facility with modern conveniences ensures a comfortable stay, while nature lovers will appreciate waking up to the harmonious melodies of diverse birdlife and exploring the farm and mountain bike trails.

Facilities

  • Four expansive lawn stands with serene views of Pinotage Lake.
  • Each stand is furnished with vital amenities including electricity, water, and braai facilities.
  • Enjoy the indulgence of a lavish 5-star ablution facility, complete with contemporary conveniences.
  • Relax amidst lush gardens and on a wooden deck.

Things to do

  • Hiking
  • Swimming in the Pinotage Lake
  • Fishing
  • Mountain biking
  • Birdwatching
  • Kayaking

Pet friendly: Upon request

Rates: Adults: R200 per person per night. Children 13 years and above will be charged as adults. Children (4 – 12 Yrs) R100 per person per night. Children under 3 years old stay free.

Maximum number of people per site: 6 people

Fynbos Guest Farm

Where: Wolseley

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 1.5 hours

About this campsite

Fynbos Guest Farm and Animal Sanctuary, nestled in South Africa’s Western Cape, is a serene haven for nature enthusiasts. Guests can unwind in comfortable accommodations and engage with resident wildlife, all while supporting the sanctuary’s mission of conservation. It’s a unique retreat where the beauty of nature and compassion for animals come together seamlessly.

Nestled within the picturesque Witzenberg Valley, just 90 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre and bordering Tulbagh and Ceres, Fynbos Guest Farm and Animal Sanctuary offers an idyllic escape in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Facilities

  • Seven secluded camp sites nestled among fynbos, with sites 7 and 8 joined for larger groups
  • Clean, decorated ablution facilities with daily servicing and electric points
  • Water accessible from nearby Ablution Block
  • Well-appointed braai areas, including communal space
  • Two small plunge pools for relaxation
  • Shared fridge available for all guests

Things to do

  • Diverse animal collection including over 13 mammal species, birds, zebra, llamas, alpacas, horses, ostriches, springbok, and more
  • Guests can feed animals, assist with horse brushing, or observe them from benches
  • Two marked walking trails: 1.6km through renosterveld and 1.2km through pine forest and renosterveld
  • Look out for various flora species and small ‘padlooper’ tortoises
  • Tranquil glass meditation room available for quiet reflection (no shoes or children allowed)
  • Spiritual labyrinth in the pine forest for walking
  • Jungle gym for children, allowing parents to relax under tree shade

Pet friendly: No

Rates: R190 per person per night, Children (4 – 13 Yrs) R80 per person per night, Children (0 – 3 Yrs) stay free.

Maximum number of people per site: 4 people

Boegoeberg 4×4

Where: Clanwilliam

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 2.5 hours

About this campsite

Nestled in the heart of breathtaking wilderness, Boegoeberg 4×4 Campsite is a hidden gem awaiting discovery. This off-road enthusiast’s haven offers a unique camping experience set in a pristine natural environment, ideal for adventurers seeking an escape from the ordinary.

More than just a campground, Boegoeberg 4×4 Campsite is an immersive retreat where the rugged beauty of the landscape meets the thrill of off-road exploration. Surrounded by scenic vistas and marked 4×4 trails, it beckons to those who crave the excitement of navigating challenging terrains.

Facilities

  • Lapa with braai facilities
  • Every campsite has running water and electricity
  • Lots of trees providing lots of shade
  • Restaurant and pub
  • Hot Water
  • Lighting around campsites

Things to do

  • Large natural swimming pool
  • Small swimming pool for kids
  • Bird watching
  • Long and short 4×4 trails ranging in difficulty
  • Walking trails
  • Hiking trails
  • Mountain Biking
  • Stargazing

Pet friendly: Pets allowed by pre-authorised permission

Rates: R190 per person 18 years old+, R90 for children 2-17 years, children under 2 years old stay free

Maximum number of people per site: 4 people

Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve

Where: Nougaspoort, Touws River

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 2.5 hours

About this campsite

Gecko Rock Private Nature Reserve, nestled in Nougaspoort Valley just 25 km from Touwsrivier, invites visitors to an eco-adventure haven. Our mission is to provide an unparalleled outdoor experience in the South African Karoo, one of Earth’s most unique natural areas.

Accommodation options range from camping to modern, eco-friendly cabins. Guests can relish unspoiled views, starlit skies, and endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, photography, and 4×4 trails—or simply relax in the shade with a good book or drink.

Facilities

  • 2 Campsites: De Wet’s Rus Campsite & Echo Valley Campsite
  • De Wet’s Rus Campsite can accommodate up to 20 vehicles (60 people)
  • Echo Valley Campsite can accommodate up to 5 vehicles (10 people)
  • Central braai areas
  • Small plunge pools
  • A shop at reception carrying smalls such as firewood, firelighters, matches, tea, coffee, milk, cold drinks, ice, chips, and sweets etc.

Things to do

  • 4×4 Routes
  • Rock climbing
  • Hiking
  • Mountain biking
  • Stargazing

Pet friendly: Yes

Rates: Call +27 023 358 9902

Maximum number of people per site: De Wet’s Rus Campsite can accommodate up to 20 vehicles (60 people), Echo Valley Campsite can accommodate up to 5 vehicles (10 people)

Balie’s Gat

Where: Op-Die-Berg, Koue Bokkeveld

Distance from Cape Town: Just under 3 hours

About this campsite

Experience an unforgettable getaway at Balie’s Gat campsite, nestled in the serene Koue Bokkeveld valley. Here, amidst deep nature, rejuvenate your body, soul, and mind.

Hiking enthusiasts, trail runners, and mountain bikers will find endless paths and trails to explore. For those seeking relaxation, unwind in the shade on the grass, immerse yourself in a good book, take a refreshing swim, and soak in the mesmerising sights of rock formations while listening to the harmonious sounds of birds and bees.

As night falls, indulge in spectacular stargazing under the clear skies. Most importantly, revel in the resonating silence of nature and ample space to create cherished moments with family and friends.

Balie’s Gat can only be reached with a high-ground clearance vehicle. When making use of any sort of trailer or off-Road caravan, a 4×4 vehicle is essential.

Facilities

  • One small campsite (Rietdakkie), 2 medium sized campsites with thatched gazebos (Baliekamp 1 & 2), 1 large campsite (Boesmansklip), 2 secluded luxury tented camps (Oupa Tienie and Oupa Carl)
  • Braai area and firepit
  • Private ablutions with Solar Panel lights and hot water for the shower

Things to do

  • A river with rock pools to swim in
  • Guests can enjoy walking, trail running, and mountain biking with numerous paths and trails available.
  • Spectacular stargazing opportunities

Pet friendly: Yes, but only small dogs allowed. No aggressive dogs are allowed and all dogs must be on a leash.

Rates

  • Boesmansklip, Rietdakkie, Baliekamp 1 & 2: R150 per adult per night, R75 per child per night (children 13-16 years), R50 per child per night (children 5-12 years) *. R35 per dog per night.
  • Oupa Tienie and Oupa Carl: For 2 or more nights per booking: R600 per adult per night sharing, R800 per single person per night, R300 per child per night. For 1-night bookings: R750 per adult sharing, R950 per single person, R450 per child.

Maximum number of people per site:

  • Boesmansklip: Can accommodate 6 or 7 camping rigs / 10+ Adults (all depending on the size of your offroad caravan, trailer and/or tent).
  • Rietdakkie: Can accommodate 2-3 camping rigs 6+ Adults (all depending on the size of your offroad caravan, trailer and/or tent).
  • Baliekamp 1 & 2: Can accommodate 3 or 4 camping rigs 6+ Adults (all depending on the size of your offroad caravan, trailer and/or tent).
  • Oupa Tienie & Oupa Carl: 4 People (1 queen size bed and 2 single beds)

Contact: Call +27 23 001 0810 or email admin@baliesgat.co.za

Khomeesdrif

Where: Riviersonderend

Distance from Cape Town: 2 hours

About this campsite

Situated near the Sonderend River in Riviersonderend, Khomeesdrif Camping Site is a family-friendly holiday destination offering more than 40 camping and caravan sites amidst stunning natural surroundings. For smaller groups, the site features two self-catering cottages.

Facilities

  • Communal ablution facilities
  • Family bathrooms
  • Wheelchair-accessible bathrooms
  • Porta potty facilities
  • BYO braai
  • On-site shop

Things to do

  • Off-road 4×4 routes
  • Birdwatching opportunities
  • Fishing spots – carp and barber can be caught from the river bank or boat
  • Scenic hiking trails
  • Thrilling mountain bike paths
  • Swimming areas
  • Wildlife observation points

Pet friendly: Well-mannered pets are gladly accepted, but arrangements must be made in advance.

Cost: R420 per stand per night (up to four people), R110 per person (for two additional people). R20 per dog.

Maximum number of people per site: 6 people

Contact: Call +27 82 937 0053 or email bookings@khomeesdrif.co.za

Rivierplaas

Where: Worcester

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 1.5 hours 

About this campsite

For a tranquil weekend getaway with loved ones, discover Rivierplaas Campsite. Nestled along the serene banks of the Breede River, just an hour and a half drive from Cape Town, the campsite resides in the scenic area of Scherpenheuwel, south of Worcester. 

Enjoy expansive lawns and child-friendly play areas amidst the peaceful ambiance that defines their retreat. No music is allowed.

Facilities

  • Big stretched out lawns
  • Child-friendly play areas
  • Cosy camp fires with braai facilities
  • Hot water showers, and flushing toilets
  • Any kind of tent, bush-trailer, motor-home or caravan are welcome
  • They stock some basic camping necessities like ice, wood, Blitz, Tabard, Coke and bottled water, as well as in season farm produce and honey
  • No electricity, so bring along a few solar panels

Things to do

  • Swimming in the Breede River
  • Foefie slide
  • Inner tubes, canoes and rafts available
  • Birdwatching
  • Hiking trails
  • Fishing

Pet friendly: Friendly pets that interact well with other animals and people, particularly children, are permitted. However, loud or disruptive pets will not be tolerated. Please clean up after your pet. Access to walks is readily available. Be mindful of other campers and their pets, as Rivierplaas is a working farm with roaming dogs and farm animals. Respect for resident dogs, farm animals, and wildlife is essential. Pets are welcome at an additional fee of R150 per pet per booking.

Rates: Call +27 84 710 0139 or email info@rivierplaas.co.za

Maximum number of people per site: Ranges between 4-12 people per campsite

Arendsrus

Where: George

Distance from Cape Town: Just under 5 hours

About this campsite

With stunning panoramic vistas of the Outeniqua mountains, extending all the way to Mossel Bay and the hills of Wilderness, the campsite provides a breathtaking backdrop.

Arendsrus prioritises guest satisfaction in every aspect. 

From the campsite design to the amenities provided, the focus remains on meeting the needs of camping guests. Every detail of the campsites and ablution facilities is carefully planned to exceed guests’ basic requirements.

Facilities

  • Situated within Arendsrus farm at the foothills of the Outeniqua mountains, fenced with electrical fencing bordering on DAFF grounds.
  • 12 Exclusive stands, including 2 accessible for wheelchair guests.
  • Free Wi-Fi accessible from every stand.
  • Entire campsite fenced with motorised gate, each stand equipped with a remote for main gate and campsite gate access.
  • Each stand features white and brown water taps, sourced from a natural spring for drinking and utility use.
  • Electrical point and distribution box available at each stand for camper use.
  • Individual irrigation control for each stand.
  • Lighting provided at each stand.
  • Movable braai provided for convenience.
  • Three ablution buildings, each with four fully equipped bathrooms, totaling 12 bathrooms.
  • Each campsite provided a remote for gate access and a key for their private bathroom, exclusive to their stand.
  • Each bathroom includes a toilet, basin, shower, cupboard for toiletries, hand towel ring, and four clothing hooks.
  • Outside washing trough with hot and cold water provided for dishwashing convenience.
  • Restaurant and bar area

Things to do

  • Heated swimming pool
  • Mountain bike trails and bike hire
  • Birdwatching
  • Hiking trails

Pet friendly: No

Rates: Call 044 050 0256 or email info@arendsrus.co.za

Lylius Private Campsites

Where: Clanwilliam

Distance from Cape Town: Just over 2.5 hours

About this campsite

Lylius Private Campsites, nestled at the base of the majestic Cederberg mountains, offers an idyllic weekend retreat for families and friends seeking nature’s embrace. Explore hiking trails, rock art, rock climbing, MTB trails, and 4×4 routes.

Facilities

  • Forest Private Campsite: Exclusive 750 m2 site with two shallow rock pools, accessible via wooden bridges. Suited for tents only, limited to 10 guests sharing one bathroom
  • Taaibos Campsite: Hilltop site overlooking Grassfield area, with private 35 m2 Lapa including bathroom. Recommended for up to 10 guests with 4 caravans
  • Grassfield Campsites (Mango, Marula, Karee, Pear): Four private sites, each about 400 m2 with exclusive 25 m2 Lapa and bathroom. Recommended for up to 8 guests with 3 caravans
  • All sites offer power points, lights, and access to a communal swimming pool and jungle gym
  • Social area, firepit & picnic tables

Things to do

  • Swimming pool
  • Children’s play area
  • Hiking trails
  • Shallow rock pools
  • Search for rock art

Pet friendly:

Rates: Call +27 72 657 4719 or email stay@lylius.co.za

Maximum number of people per site: Forest Private Campsite: Limited to 10 guests sharing one bathroom. Taaibos Campsite: Recommended for up to 10 guests with 4 caravans. Grassfield Campsites (Mango, Marula, Karee, Pear): Recommended for up to 8 guests with 3 caravans.

Disclaimer

The Camping Company has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location.