Gauteng’s constant rush makes weekends in the bush more than a luxury; they’re a necessity. Luckily, the province offers some of South Africa’s most rewarding camping and glamping spots, from mountain hideaways to Big 5 reserves and lakeside retreats. Whether you enjoy sleeping under a star-filled sky or in a luxury canvas suite with a hot shower and Wi-Fi, Gauteng has a site waiting for you.
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Why Camping in Gauteng Is Still a Local Favourite
More Gauteng residents are trading city lights for campfires. The province’s top sites are all within two hours of Johannesburg or Pretoria, making quick getaways easy and affordable.
These escapes reconnect families with nature and teach young campers about conservation, wildlife, and South Africa’s outdoor heritage. And for travellers who prefer comfort to camp chairs, glamping, which is glamorous camping, now lets first-timers experience the wilderness without giving up modern luxuries.
Here are ten of Gauteng’s best camping and glamping destinations, each with its own character, scenery, and sense of adventure.
1. Mountain Sanctuary Park, Magaliesburg
Privately owned and tucked deep in the Magaliesberg mountains, Mountain Sanctuary Park is famous for its clear rock pools and dramatic cliffs. Hikers, birders, and mountain bikers explore its quiet trails before relaxing at the bar or braai area as the sun drops behind the hills.
It’s a true sanctuary, tranquil, scenic, and just over an hour from Johannesburg.
📞 Contact: +27 14 534 0114 | Email: [email protected] | Web: www.mountain-sanctuary.co.za
2. Dinokeng Fishing & Camping, Roodeplaat Dam
Only 50 km from Pretoria, Dinokeng Nature Reserve is a leader in eco-tourism and conservation. Dinokeng Fishing & Camping combines authentic bushveld camping with the chance to spot the Big 5 and learn about ongoing wildlife rehabilitation work.
With clean ablution blocks, safe stands, and guided drives, this is South African adventure at its most accessible.
📞 Tel: +27 12 711 4391
3. Bush Willow Tented Camp, Muldersdrift
If you’re looking for comfort without losing that outdoor charm, Bush Willow Tented Camp delivers. Just 30 minutes from both major cities, it’s a favourite for families and couples seeking countryside calm.
Guests can fish at dawn, gather around the fire at night, or visit nearby attractions such as the Cradle of Humankind. Each walk-in tent includes electricity, warm showers, and soft beds; proof that camping doesn’t have to mean roughing it.
📞 +27 11 668 1600 | Email: [email protected] | Web: guvonhotels.co.za
4. Bass Lake Camp, Henley on Klip
At Bass Lake Exclusive Camping, tranquillity meets modern convenience. Families come here to fish, hike, and enjoy quiet time under shady trees.
When you need a break from braaiing, head to Spencer’s Restaurant for a good meal. With spacious campsites and top-class facilities, Bass Lake is ideal for both weekenders and first-time campers.
📞 +27 12 735 1650 | Email: [email protected] | Web: basslakelodge.co.za
5. Olifantspoort Bush Camp & Caravan Park
For a wilder experience, Olifantspoort Bush Camp offers hiking, mountain-biking, birdwatching, fishing, and even donkey-cart rides. Every stand comes with electricity, water, and shade.
It’s safe, family-friendly, and filled with simple outdoor pleasures, ideal for photographers and parents seeking quiet time alike.
📞 +27 14 717 3969 | Email: [email protected] | Web: olifantspoort.yolasite.com
6. Willem’s Rus Camp, Dinokeng Nature Reserve
Few camps let you watch free-roaming wildlife from your tent, but Willem’s Rus Camp does. Set inside Dinokeng, it’s one of Gauteng’s best bush getaways. Expect to see antelope or giraffe wander past while you braai under the stars.
Only 50 km north of Pretoria, this malaria-free Big 5 reserve blends wilderness with comfort.
📞 +27 81 702 2989 | Email: [email protected] | Web: willemsrus.co.za
7. Nkwe Camp, Pretoria East
Nkwe Camp offers the perfect mix of city convenience and country calm. Surrounded by shady trees, its natural rock pool and small waterfall make it one of Pretoria’s most popular summer spots.
Each site has electricity, clean bathrooms, and braai facilities. Families love the setting for its safety and simplicity, close enough for a day trip, peaceful enough for a full weekend.
📞 +27 12 811 5231 | Web: nkwepark.co.za
8. Kaia Manzi Camp, Bronkhorstspruit Dam
If water relaxes you, Kaia Manzi Camp is a must. Overlooking the Bronkhorstspruit Dam, it offers boating, fishing, and swimming all day long. Multiple pools, shaded picnic lawns, and family chalets make it a great multi-generation escape.
At just an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria, it’s one of the easiest weekend getaways around.
📞 +27 71 851 1346 | Email: [email protected] | Web: kaiamanzi.co.za
9. Malonjeni Game Farm, Heidelberg
South of Johannesburg on the R42, Malonjeni Game Farm spreads across 270 hectares of open farmland. Safari tents remain the highlight, close to the pool and braai areas but private enough to feel wild.
It’s a laid-back farm stay where you can finally kick your shoes off and breathe.
📞 +27 71 103 0409 | Email: [email protected] | Web: malonjeni.co.za
10. Rametsi Private Game Reserve, Lindleyspoort
About two hours from Gauteng, Rametsi Private Game Reserve fills its schedule with canoeing, fishing, hiking, and volleyball. The wide, open stands and mountain views make it ideal for travellers wanting both rest and activity.
📞 +27 71 280 0638 | Email: [email protected] | Web: rametsi.co.za
Beyond the Tent: Glamping Takes Over Gauteng
Glamping, short for glamorous camping, continues to grow across the province. Resorts like Adama Artistic Chalets & Teepees and Leadwood Safari Camp in the Dinokeng Game Reserve feature king-sized beds, mosquito nets, and private bathrooms under canvas.
These retreats prove that adventure and comfort can live in harmony: you can wake up to birdsong and still have your cappuccino brewed just the way you like it.
Rediscover the Great Outdoors
Whether you crave silence, wildlife, or family bonding, Gauteng’s campsites show that nature isn’t far, it’s just off the highway.
Each visit supports local tourism, conservation, and small-town economies. So this season, grab your tent or your overnight bag, leave the noise behind, and let Gauteng’s wild side remind you how adventure begins.
