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.
