your complete preparation guide

Camping Essentials

Everything you need to know before you pitch your tent in the bush. From gear checklists to camp rules, we've got you covered.

Camping in The Park is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in the world, for local and international visitors alike - but it pays to be prepared, especially in the wet season. The bush doesn't forgive the unprepared, and a well-packed kit makes the difference between a magical trip and a miserable one. We've had more than a handful of rainy camping trips, share our tips.

pack smart

Gear Checklist

Whether you've chosen a busier camp in the south, or a more remote camp in the north, these are the essentials you'll want to have with you -

✓A waterproof tent with good ventilation.
✓A durable groundsheet that is big enough for your site.
✓Camping chairs & a folding table.
✓A rubber mallet, tent pegs, the tent poles & guy ropes.
✓Hardshell ammo boxes for food & equipment storage.
✓Rechargeable, hanging/standing lamp for inside the tent.

✓Rechargeable, low-light/dim fairy lights to hang (for a touch of whimsy).
✓Strong gazebo that has a durable top.
✓Inflatable mattress, car lighter pump & bedding (if you're wanting something that feels a little more plush than a sleeping bag).
✓Extension cords, caravan plug & multiplug.
✓Headlamp & torch with spare batteries.
✓Black bin bags - every camper's go-to when the wet season gets leaky.
✓An old bath mat to go inside your tent to avoid sand ending up in your bed.
✓A travel lock for your tent - just don't forget where you put the key!
✓Shower towels - always bring two along for each person.
✓If you're camping in winter, a warm fleece blanket.

✓A set or two of braai tongs or a small, extra grill.
✓Bring a small, plastic basin & a dishcloth to make washing-up easier.
✓Plan your menu ahead of time & pack accordingly. For example: if your last meal of the trip is fillet, pack the fillet at the bottom of the camping fridge/freezer compartment, and then pack upwards.

braai & beyond

Food & Cooking

Most camps in The Park have braai (barbecue) facilities, and many have camp shops that stock the basics. Here's how to plan your meals -

✓A camping fridge/freezer is nonnegotiable. Trust us.
✓Plan your meals using a variety of non-perishable staples: precooked rice, tinned goods, rusks & canned fruit.
✓Wood, charcoal & firelighters are available at most camp shops
✓A flask for boiling water which is available at the communal kitchens.
✓Put together a 'camping kitchen' that includes cutlery, crockery & light drinkware.
✓Don't forget a bottle opener, can opener & a sharp knife.
✓Bottled water is sold in The Park shops so a glass or steel water bottle helps.
✓Don't forget spices, salt, pepper, dishwashing liquid & surface wipes.

settle in & make yourself at home

Campsite Setup Tips

Setting up camp efficiently means more time to relax, and enjoy game drives. A few tips to make your site feel like home -

✓Arrive well before the camp gates close. The closer to closure, the more the campsites fill up, and the harder it becomes to find the perfect spot.
✓Position your tent to catch the morning breeze, and avoid the afternoon sun. Always look up - some trees weep sap or fruit which can become sticky.
✓Keep your campsite tidy - food scraps attract unwanted visitors, including vervet monkeys which can cause havoc in campsites where food is not safely locked away or protected.
✓Always use a groundsheet under your tent to protect against moisture and insects. A groundsheet also keeps the underside of your tent relatively clean, especially during the wet season.
✓Work backwards when setting up - groundsheet, gazebo, and then tent. This will help protect you from the sun, and also create a clean space to unload the car.
✓If you hang your towels up during the day, be sure to shake them out well before you head off to shower - get rid of any creepy crawlies that have made it home.
✓While you're hanging around camp, ensure that your window and door flaps are folded. This will help air circulate in your tent, especially during summer.

stay safe

Safety Essentials

The Park is a wild place, and safety is everyone's responsibility. These basics will keep you and your family protected -

✓In the summer months, avoid hanging out in your tent during the warmest hours of the day.
✓Small animals roam freely through the camps - monkeys, squirrels, birds. Don't give into the temptation to feed them, and watch your kiddies around them.
✓Carry a well-stocked first aid kit including antiseptic, plasters, and rehydration sachets. Cuts and scrapes are often part of the camping experience.
✓Insect spray and repellant are always a good idea - just don't hotbox yourself in your tent while you blast the Doom.
✓Regularly shake out our bedding to avoid any bites or bugs that have made their way into your tent.
✓When you check in, take note of the respective camp's emergency number, and keep it on hand.
✓While the camps are fenced in, don't goad or tease animals at the fence line. It can only end in tears (and fines).
✓Stay hydrated - no really, we mean it - the heat can be intense, especially in summer.

know before you go

Camp Rules to Know

Each camp in The Park has a clear set of rules that are designed to protect both visitors and wildlife. Familiarise yourself on arrival, for your own sake, and those around you -

✓Gate times must be strictly observed - don't slip out for a quick loop and get lost.
✓Camps have communal kitchens which are shared spaces. Clean up after yourself, please.
✓Noise must be kept to a minimum, especially after 10pm - the bush is a place of peace and people will complain if their peace is disturbed.
✓Fires are only permitted in designated braai areas - be responsible, and don't start a fire on the ground.
✓Camp facilities are to be used at your own risk - be vigilant and mindful of where you are. Snakes, spiders and scorpions are common.
✓Littering carries heavy fines and, let's be honest, is the worst habit! Pack up everything you pack out.
✓Campsites can get busy. Especially during peak, summer periods. Be prepared - you're sharing a space with many other people who love nature, and love The Park. Be kind. Be considerate.
✓We all love a souvenir, but collecting plants, rocks, or any natural material is really not allowed. Rather, support The Parks Shop - there are plenty of goodies to buy, and take home.