Sabah is a gorgeous island in Borneo that has several stunning camping locations. Here are twelve of the best camping spots in Sabah:
1. Kinabalu Park
Kinabalu Park is a well-known camping spot in Sabah. The park is located in the district of Ranau, near the slopes of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia's highest peak. It is approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Kota Kinabalu. The park's flora and wildlife are rich, with over 5,000 plant species and hundreds of animal species.
The Sabah Parks Authority operates a number of camping areas within Kinabalu Park. These campgrounds are located at various elevations and provide varying levels of services and amenities.
The Gunting Lagadan Camping Site is one of the most popular camping areas in Kinabalu Park. This camping site, located at an elevation of 3,300 meters and close to the summit trail, is popular with climbers who want to acclimatize before attempting to conquer Mount Kinabalu. It offers basic amenities like restrooms and cooking areas.
Laban Rata Resthouse, located at an elevation of 3,270 meters, is another popular camping area. The resthouse provides nice lodging as well as essential services including toilets, showers, and a restaurant. Climbers who wish to rest before attempting to ascend Mount Kinabalu go here.
Another popular place for climbers who want to relax before attempting to summit Mount Kinabalu is the Panar Laban Camping Site, which is located at an elevation of 3,270 meters along the summit trail. It provides basic amenities, including restrooms and cooking shelters.
Kiau View Camping Site, located at an elevation of 1,520 meters, offers minimal amenities like restrooms and cooking shelters. It is in a magnificent setting with stunning views of the neighboring mountains and valleys.
2. Poring Hot Springs
Poring Hot Springs, located within Kinabalu Park about 40 kilometers east of Ranau and 136 kilometers northeast of Kota Kinabalu, is a popular camping spot with natural hot springs and scenic hiking routes.
The camping grounds provide a one-of-a-kind opportunity to camp in a tranquil and natural setting surrounded by lush rainforest, as well as basic amenities such as bathrooms, cooking shelters, and picnic tables.
You may relax in the natural hot baths or climb the trails through the rainforest to spectacular waterfalls like the Poring Waterfall and Kipungit Waterfall. Outdoor activities such as canopy walks, zip lining, and bird watching are also available.
This camping site is open year-round; however, because it might get crowded during peak season, you should book your camping spots in advance with the Sabah Parks Authority.
3. Pulau Tiga Park
Pulau Tiga Park is a popular camping destination on Pulau Tiga, a small island off the coast of Sabah about 10 kilometers offshore from the town of Kuala Penyu, which is about 115 kilometers south of Kota Kinabalu.
The camping areas, located on the island's eastern side and surrounded by dazzling blue waters and lush greenery, provide basic amenities such as toilets, showers, and a cooking area.
The volcanic mud pools at Pulau Tiga Park are well worth a visit. By soaking in the mud pools, you may enjoy the natural mineral-rich mud, which is said to have medicinal properties.
The boat trip to Pulau Tiga takes about 30-45 minutes from Pulau Tiga Park.
4. Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, located off the coast of Kota Kinabalu, is a popular site for camping enthusiasts and environmental lovers. The Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park contains five islands: Pulau Gaya, Pulau Manukan, Pulau Mamutik, Pulau Sapi, and Pulau Sulug.
The camping areas, on the other hand, are located on the islands of Pulau Gaya, Pulau Manukan, and Pulau Sapi, with each offering a distinct experience.
Pulau Gaya, the marine park's largest island, allows you to walk through the rainforest and see species such as proboscis monkeys and hornbills.
Pulau Manukan, with its lovely beaches and clear blue waters, is a popular snorkeling and diving destination.
Pulau Sapi is a tiny island that offers secluded camping and spectacular views of the neighboring islands.
Toilets, showers, and cooking facilities are available at all campgrounds.
The boat trip to one of the marine park's five islands takes about 15–30 minutes.
5. Danum Valley
Danum Valley Conservation Area, which covers an area of around 438 square kilometers, is a unique and protected location for some of Southeast Asia's most diversified fauna, as well as one of the world's oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests.
This conservation area, located in the eastern portion of Sabah and around 82 kilometers from Lahad Datu, is open to camping in certain locations inside the park.
Its variety of outdoor activities and rare wildlife encounters make it a favorite camping location.
The camping area is close to the Danum River and various waterfalls, notably the 70-meter-high Danum Waterfall, which is a popular hiking and swimming destination.
There are also a number of hiking paths in the area that range from easy to difficult and allow people to explore the rainforest and its fauna.
It provides basic amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and kitchen facilities.
6. Malibu Basin Conservation
Commonly known as "The Lost World of Sabah," Malibu Basin Conservation is a remote and unspoiled rainforest located roughly 120 kilometers from Tawau and takes about 3–4 hours by car.
The 588-square-kilometer conservation area is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including orangutans, gibbons, elephants, and other bird and insect species, as well as several stunning waterfalls, including the 7-tiered Maliau Falls.
There are various hiking paths around that range from easy to difficult. Those interested in learning about the jungle's nocturnal wildlife can go on a guided night walk.
The camp site in Maliau Basin Conservation Area provides guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the unspoiled beauty of the rainforest and its fauna. However, due to its remote location, it is best suited for experienced campers.
The camp site is located near the Maliau River and has minimal amenities such as toilets, showers, and cooking facilities. It is, however, recommended that you carry your own camping equipment and supplies, as there are few facilities in the area.
7. Crocker Range Park
Crocker Range Park, located in the heart of Sabah, approximately 1-2 hours' drive from Keningau, which is 90 kilometers from Kota Kinabalu, is a protected park that is home to a diverse array of species, including numerous types of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
The breathtaking views of Mount Kinabalu, which can be seen from numerous vantage points within the park, are one of the park's highlights.
There are various hiking paths in the surrounding area that range in difficulty, allowing tourists to experience the rainforest and its species.
The camping area is close to the park headquarters and provides basic amenities such as toilets, showers, and cooking facilities.
8. Tawau Hills Park
Tawau Hills Park is a protected geographical area 30 kilometers from Tawau, around 1 hour by car, that spans an area that's roughly 28,000 hectares.
It is home to a wide variety of species, and the camping areas of Tawau Hills Park provide a unique opportunity to explore the park's natural beauty and fauna.
The breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, which can be seen from numerous vantage points within the park, are one of the park’s highlights.
There are also a variety of hiking trails, ranging in complexity, that allow campers to explore the rainforest and its animals.
The campground is close to the park headquarters and provides basic amenities like toilets, showers, and cooking facilities.
9. Imbak Canyon
This secluded canyon, located in the heart of Sabah's rainforest, is part of the Yayasan Sabah Forest Management Area, which is roughly 300 kilometers east of Kota Kinabalu.
Imbak Canyon's untouched environment is home to a rich diversity of flora and animals, encompassing an area of roughly 30,000 hectares and being regarded as one of the last remaining wildernesses.
It is home to a variety of rare and endangered species, including Bornean orangutans, gibbons, hornbills, and pygmy elephants.
The campsite is located on a beautiful river, and there are numerous hiking routes that lead through lush jungle and to stunning waterfalls.
Being able to witness and learn about the traditional hunting and gathering methods, as well as the customs and culture of the indigenous tribes who have lived in harmony with the rainforest for generations, is one of the highlights of Imbak Canyon.
Because Imbak Canyon is a remote and isolated area, it is best to hire a local guide or participate in a guided tour to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
10. Tabin Wildlife Reserve Campsite
The Tabin Wildlife Reserve is a conservation area about an hour's drive from Lahad Datu.
The campsite is located within the reserve, approximately 17 kilometers away, and is home to a broad range of wildlife, including elephants, orangutans, gibbons, sun bears, leopards, slow lorises, and other bird species.
Restrooms, showers, and grilling spaces are among the few amenities available at the campsite. It is recommended that you bring your own camping equipment or rent it from the park.
11. Sepilok Forest Reserve Campsite
This campsite is around 30 minutes drive from Sandakan and is located within the Sepilok Forest Reserve, which is home to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, which is dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of orangutans.
This campsite is ideal for experiencing Borneo's natural beauty while learning about orangutans and their rehabilitation. Toilets, baths, and kitchens are among the basic utilities.
12. Semporna Island Camping Site
The Semporna Island Camping Site is located on the island of Bohey Dulang, which is part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park, and is approximately 30 minutes by boat from Semporna town.
Located on a white sandy beach, this campsite is surrounded by lush jungle, making for a calm and peaceful camping experience.
At this campsite, you can engage in activities such as snorkeling, diving, island hopping, and hiking.
Campers are provided with basic amenities such as tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses at the campsite. Shared restrooms and showers are accessible.
Glamping is also offered at nearby Semporna campsites like the Mabul Beach Resort and Kapalai Island Resort, which provide more deluxe camping experiences with private bungalows and upscale facilities.
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