Chiang Mai never disappoints when it comes to offering options for recreation. If beaches, temples, elephants sanctuaries, and hot springs were less, the town also offers exotic and serene camping spots nearby. From Doi Inthanon to Mon Cham, Chiang Mai's top camping spots provide a unique blend of culture and outdoor adventure.
Discover the natural wonders surrounding Chiang Mai by venturing into the best camping spots around Chiang Mai, where lush forests, serene waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas await. Whether you're seeking a tranquil escape or an adventurous getaway, these idyllic locations offer the perfect setting to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories under the star-studded skies of Northern Thailand.
5 Best Camping Spots Around Chiang Mai
1. Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon is one of the most popular camping locations in Chiang Mai province and is also the closest to the town. You can easily reach the Doi Inthanon camping location in just two hours from the Chiang Mai airport. It offers a complete package for a memorable hiking experience.
Due to its elevation, the mountain peak gets very cold and frosty in winters. The tip gets covered with white mist that lends an ethereal appeal to the place. The most startling feature of this place is the rare variety of plants and the swarm of birds that are very unique.
The place has lush green lands, a clear starry night sky, fresh breeze and crystal clear waterfall cascading down the hills. For adventurous tourists, the place has many self-guided hiking routes. You can also head to the twin pagoda to see the picturesque flower garden
Location: Mae Tha District, Lamphun
Entry Fees: THB 300 per person for foreigners, THB 150 for children and THB 20-50 for Thais.
Opening Timings: 5 AM to 6 PM
Image Courtesy: Adventure in You
2. Doi Suthep Pui National Park
Doi Suthep is a preferred camping location for both locals as well as tourists owing to the easy accessibility. Just like Doi Inthanon, the Doi Suthep National Park has plenty of activities that you can indulge in and enjoy while camping.
There are both easy as well as difficult treks to suit all kinds of trekkers. You can also go cycling and hiking on the mountain. The mountain gets all covered up in snow during winters and provides an amazing serene backdrop for a laid-back night under the starry skies.
Due to its popularity, the place already has tents up so you need not waste time on setting it up. You can also visit Bhubing Palace and the Huey Kaew waterfall. There is another campsite- Yod Doi Pui campsite that you can explore near the national park.
Location: Huay Kaew Road, Amphoe Pakkret, Nonthaburi, Doi Suthep
Entry fee: THB 200 for adults and THB 100 for children. There may be additional charges for some attractions.
Opening Timings: 8:30 AM to 4: 15 PM
Image Courtesy: Adventure in You
3. Camp Chiang Mai
Camp Chiang Mai is a chic tent accommodation located in the middle of rice fields in the Mae Rim area of Chiang Mai. The entire camping spot has been divided into 3 villages viz. Tree House, Baan Nam and Baan Phra Athit.
There are over 25 rooms with an Electric stove, mini-fan, and wireless internet that you can choose from. There are no attached bathrooms so you have to use the common bathroom that is located 60 meters away from the tents.
There are food items and drinks available at the houses so you can prepare your meals. The place also offers buffer breakfast.
Location: 32/2 Moo 5, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50180
Fees: Depends upon the room you are booking
Image Courtesy: Trip Advisor
4. Mae Ping National Park
Mae Ping National Park is located in Tak province. The park is inside Bhumibol Reservoir and Dam. It is considered to be one of the safest camping spots around Chiang Mai. The camping facilities in the park are provided by the authorities only so you need not worry about carrying your own tents and other stuff.
The place has many mesmerizing caves and waterfalls that you can explore. You can also go trekking with a group of friends. A popular sport here is bird watching as the place is abundant in beautiful birds and other faunas such as barking deer (Indian Muntjac), sambar deer, rabbits and gallus.
A unique experience that you can have here is the floating raft house. You can rent a floating house in the Kaeng Koh lake and enjoy a meal in the middle of the river with breathtaking views around.
Location: Mae Lan, Li District, Lamphun
Entry fee: THB 100 for adults, THB 50 for child
Opening Timings: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Daily
Image Courtesy: Changpuak Magazine
5. Doi Khun Tan
The Doi Khun Tan is one of the oldest parks in Thailand. This could be an ideal choice for people looking for peace and serenity in camping. The place is usually very quiet with few people around. The place is very diverse botanically and has plenty of species of wildflowers like gingers, orchids, etc.
You can also spot faunas that are rarely found elsewhere. The faunas include wild boar, porcupines, weasel, Siamese hares and more. It is also ideal for adventurous tourists as there are many mysterious and off beaten paths that can be explored.
Location: Mae Tha District, Lamphun
Entry fee: The entry fee is THB 100 for adults and THB 50 for children.
Opening timings: The timings are 6 AM to 6 PM
Image Courtesy: Chiang Mai Travel
Pro Tips for Camping in and around Chiang Mai
Whenever starting for a camp, pack a good amount of instant food, fruits, and energy bars along with sufficient water. Not at the camping sites have shops and restaurants nearby, therefore you must go prepared.
Also, since most camping locations in Chiang Mai are situated at a high altitude, the night can get chilly. Hence, you should always pack some warm clothes as you go camping. For safety reasons, always carry a first aid box.
FAQ
A bubble tent in Chiang Mai is a unique type of accommodation that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding natural beauty while providing a comfortable and cozy place to stay. The tent is made of transparent material, giving guests an unobstructed view of the starry sky and the beautiful landscape. You can find bubble tents in Chiang Mai at various campsites and resorts, such as Rai Ing Tawan and Magic Mountain Camp Thailand.
Yes, there are many places to go camping around Chiang Mai, ranging from basic campsites to luxury camping options. Some popular camping spots include Chiang Mai Night Safari, Doi Inthanon National Park, Mae Wang National Park, and Chiang Dao National Park. It is advisable to check with the park authorities or a local tour operator for camping regulations and safety precautions.
Yes, there are several luxury camping options available in Chiang Mai, also known as "glamping". These accommodations offer a more comfortable and upscale camping experience, with amenities like private bathrooms, air conditioning, and high-end furnishings. Some popular luxury camping options in Chiang Mai include Chiang Mai Tented Camp, Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, and Panviman Chiang Mai Spa Resort.
Chiang Mai Mountain is a popular destination in northern Thailand known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. It is a mountain range that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures. Many visitors to Chiang Mai Mountain also come to experience the local culture and traditions of the hill tribes that live in the area.
The Chiang Mai Tented Camp is a luxury camping resort located in the hills of northern Thailand. It offers a unique and upscale camping experience, with spacious tents equipped with private balconies, air conditioning, and luxurious furnishings. The camp also offers a range of activities, including elephant encounters, jungle treks, and spa treatments.
Magic Mountain Camp Thailand is a popular camping resort located in the Mae Taeng district of Chiang Mai. It offers a range of accommodations, including tents, teepees, and cabins, and features a variety of outdoor activities like ziplining, horseback riding, and river tubing. The resort is also known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and natural beauty.
Rai Ing Tawan is a popular camping and glamping resort located in the Mae Rim district of Chiang Mai. It is known for its beautiful setting among rice paddies and lush greenery, as well as its unique accommodations, including dome tents and vintage caravans. The resort also offers a variety of activities, such as bicycle tours, farm visits, and Thai cooking classes.
Yes, there are several options for glamping in Chiang Mai, which is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while still enjoying comfortable accommodations. Some of the popular glamping sites in Chiang Mai include Magic Mountain Camp Thailand, Rai Ing Tawan, and Chiang Mai Mountain View Resort & Animal Park. These sites offer a range of accommodations, from luxury tents to treehouses, and provide a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
Founder - Thailand Nomads
Jordan started Thailand Nomads primarily for sharing his experience of exploring Thailand for several years. The objective is to help tourists especially digital nomads plan their travel itinerary when visiting Thailand.
Email: jordan@thailandnomads.com
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Jordan Walshhttps://www.thailandnomads.com/author/jordan/March 30, 2023
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Jordan Walshhttps://www.thailandnomads.com/author/jordan/March 30, 2023
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Jordan Walshhttps://www.thailandnomads.com/author/jordan/March 30, 2023