Glen Reenen Campsite
Where: Golden Gate National Park, Free State.
Distance from Joburg: Three-hour drive.
What to expect: The campsite has the ideal location, nestled between trees on the banks of a stream, where you can explore the park and where you’re sure to spot a few of the many animals that roam free.
Things to do: Check out the quaint nearby ‘Jewel of the Free State’ – Clarens, while you’re there.
Visit: www.sanparks.org
Buffelspoort
Where: Rustenburg, North West Province.
Distance from Joburg: One hour, 45-minute drive.
What to expect: Located close to Jozi, this is the ideal weekend getaway for the entire family. The resort boasts many amenities, including a water park and plenty of amenities.
Things to do: Enjoy the resort’s many activities, such as horse riding and golf.
Visit: www.atkv.co.za
Olifantspoort Bush Camp
Where: Modimolle, Limpopo.
Distance from Joburg: Two-hour drive.
What to expect: Switch off from the big city and get in tune with nature at this wilderness camp. Recharge your batteries with leisurely walks, bike rides or simply by taking in the majesty of the bushveld.
Things to do: Unwind with simple activities like swimming, hiking or bird watching.
Visit: www.olifantspoort.yolasite.com
Forever Warmbaths Camping
Where: Bela-Bela, Limpopo.
Distance from Joburg: Two-hour drive.
What to expect: A comfortable camping venue which is great for the less-experienced camper. This luxury camping site is the perfect balance of city life and nature.
Things to do: Explore the rest of this resort, which attracts thousands of tourists to Limpopo.
Visit: www.foreverwarmbaths.co.za
Bush Willow Tented Camp
Where: Muldersdrift, Gauteng.
Distance from Joburg: 40-minute drive.
What to expect: Want to go camping without the fuss? Then this is the place for you! Stay in one of 10 fully furnished walk-in tents that house four to six people.
Things to do: Explore all that Muldersdrift has to offer, like The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site or the new Lion Park.
Visit: www.bushwillowtentedcamp.co.za
Rametsi Eco Lodge Game Farm
Where: Lyndleyspoort Valley, Swartruggens.
Distance from Joburg: Two-hour, 15-minute drive.
What to expect: Enjoy your stay at this game farm situated close to a picturesque dam. The campsites all have electricity points so you won’t feel too far removed from the city.
Things to do: Take your pick from 4×4 trails, hiking paths and even canoeing.
Visit: www.rametsi.co.za
Dinokeng Waterfront Estate
Where: Kameeldrift, Roodeplaat Dam.
Distance from Joburg: One-hour, 15-minute drive.
What to expect: Located near the dam, this is an ideal quick getaway from Gauteng and is run by a friendly manager who has enjoyed fishing there for over 40 years. Although ablution services are shared, each campsite has an electricity point.
Things to do: If fishing isn’t your thing, you can enjoy a leisurely picnic, canoeing or mountain biking.
Visit: www.campdinokeng.co.za
Mountain Sanctuary Park
Where: Magaliesburg.
Distance from Joburg: One-hour, 15-minute drive.
What to expect: Up in the Magaliesburg mountains you’ll find a campsite that has been attracting campers for over 40 years. It’s also perfect for the nature lover who needs a short break from busy city life in Joburg.
Things to do: Take the short 20-minute walk to the nearby natural pools.
Visit: www.mountain-sanctuary.co.za
Warthogs Bush Camp
Where: Magaliesburg.
Distance from Joburg: One-hour, 20-minute drive.
What to expect: Nestled amidst a lush canopy of trees in the heart of the African bushveld, just a short two-kilometer jaunt from African Hills Safari Lodge & Spa on the Plumari Private Reserve, you'll find Warthogs Bush Lodge. This intimate, rustic retreat offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It's also an excellent choice for private bookings, family reunions, intimate conferences, and unforgettable weddings.
Visit: https://www.warthogs.co.za/.
Bass Lake
Where: Henley on Klip, Meyerton.
Distance from Joburg: 45 minute drive.
What to expect: You have the option to either camp or use a caravan. The area boasts a rich array of birdlife, and there have been numerous sightings of small game species.
Visit: https://basslake.co.za/.
