Camping destinations in China

China is a country with a diverse and beautiful natural landscape, from the towering Himalayan mountains in the west to the picturesque beaches and islands in the south. With its vast wilderness areas and breathtaking scenery, China is an ideal destination for camping enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains or a beachside adventure, there are many camping destinations in China that offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences. In this post, we will explore some of the top camping destinations in China, from the stunning national parks to the secluded beaches, to help you plan your next outdoor adventure in this beautiful country.

Mount Everest Base Camp on the Tibetan

The Mount Everest Base Camp in Tibet is located on the northern side of the mountain in Tibet. It is the starting point for climbers attempting to reach the summit of Mount Everest. The base camp offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. To reach the base camp, travelers must take a flight from Kathmandu, Nepal to Lhasa, Tibet, followed by a drive to the base camp. A permit from the Chinese government is required to visit Tibet.

Keep in mind that reaching the Mount Everest Base Camp in Tibet is a challenging and physically demanding journey, and it is recommended for experienced hikers and mountaineers. The trek to the base camp takes several days and involves crossing high-altitude passes and camping in remote locations. It is important to properly acclimate to the high altitude, and to be prepared for harsh weather conditions and limited supplies. Visitors should also be aware of the environmental impact of tourism in the area and take steps to minimize their impact on the sensitive ecosystem. If you would like to visit Mount Everest it might be best to try and hike Everest Basecamp on the Nepali side as this is known to be a pretty easy hike.

Yading Nature Reserve

Yading Nature Reserve is a protected area located in the Sichuan province of China. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped peaks, glaciers, meadows, and lakes. The reserve is home to several peaks, including Chenresig (also known as Avalokitesvara), Jampelyang, and Chana Dorje, which are considered sacred by Tibetan Buddhists. Visitors can hike along well-marked trails to reach the peaks and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to hiking, visitors to Yading Nature Reserve can also go horseback riding, fishing, and camping. The reserve is also a popular destination for birdwatching, as it is home to many rare and endangered species. To reach the reserve, visitors must travel to the town of Daocheng, and then take a bus or hire a private vehicle to the entrance of the reserve. A permit is required to enter the reserve, and visitors are advised to be prepared for high altitudes and changing weather conditions.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is located in the Hunan province of China and is known for its unique landscape of towering sandstone pillars and dramatic cliffs. The park covers an area of more than 39,000 hectares and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The park is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including hiking, rock climbing, and scenic cable car rides.

One of the most famous attractions in the park is the Tianzi Mountain Nature Reserve, which features breathtaking views of the sandstone pillars and lush vegetation. The park also features the Bailong Elevator, a glass-bottomed elevator that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. To reach Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, visitors can fly to the nearby city of Zhangjiajie and then take a shuttle bus to the park entrance.

Visitors should be aware that the park can get crowded during peak tourist season, and that some areas may be closed to protect the environment. It is also important to properly prepare for the hilly terrain and to follow park rules and regulations to protect the delicate ecosystem.

Guilin & Yangshuo

Guilin and Yangshuo are popular tourist destinations located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. Guilin is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the unique karst landscapes and the Li River, which winds its way through the area. Yangshuo, located nearby, is a small town known for its picturesque countryside, rice paddies, and scenic countryside.

Visitors to Guilin and Yangshuo can explore the surrounding countryside by boat, bike, or foot, and can enjoy scenic views of the karst peaks, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation. Popular activities in the area include hiking, rock climbing, and river cruises. Visitors can also experience local culture by visiting traditional villages, markets, and festivals.

To reach Guilin and Yangshuo, visitors can fly to the nearby city of Guilin and then take a shuttle bus or taxi to the area. Accommodation options in the area range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts, and there are many restaurants and shops in the area offering local and international cuisine. Visitors are advised to be prepared for the hot and humid weather and to be mindful of the impact of tourism on the local environment.

Mount Taishan

Mount Taishan, also known as Tai Shan, is a sacred mountain located in Shandong Province, China. It is one of China’s Five Great Mountains and is considered one of the country’s most important cultural and historical sites. The mountain has been a site of religious and spiritual significance for thousands of years, and has been the site of many temples and shrines dedicated to various gods and emperors.

Visitors to Mount Taishan can hike to the summit along well-marked trails, which offer views of the surrounding landscape and historical sites along the way. The summit of the mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and is a popular place for sunrise and sunset views.

To reach Mount Taishan, visitors can take a train or bus to the nearby city of Tai’an and then take a shuttle bus or taxi to the base of the mountain. Accommodation options in the area range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels, and there are many restaurants and shops offering local and international cuisine. Visitors are advised to be prepared for the steep and strenuous climb, and to be mindful of the impact of tourism on the local environment.

Some Tips for Safe Camping in China:

• Research the location and obtain necessary permits including Chinese visa
• Check weather conditions and bring appropriate gear
• Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife
• Follow fire safety regulations and bring a portable stove for cooking
• Respect the environment by leaving no trace and properly disposing of waste
• Familiarize yourself with emergency services in the area
• Travel with a partner or group, or inform someone of your itinerary
• Bring basic first aid supplies and know how to use them
• Learn basic survival skills and bring a map and compass
• Familiarize yourself with local wildlife and take precautions to avoid dangerous animals.
• Research the location and obtain necessary permits
• Check weather conditions and bring appropriate gear
• Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife
• Follow fire safety regulations and bring a portable stove for cooking
• Respect the environment by leaving no trace and properly disposing of waste
• Familiarize yourself with emergency services in the area
• Travel with a partner or group, or inform someone of your itinerary
• Bring basic first aid supplies and know how to use them
• Learn basic survival skills and bring a map and compass
• Familiarize yourself with local wildlife and take precautions to avoid dangerous animals.