Camping in Malaysia

Most National Parks in Malaysia provide jungle camping sites.  There are also many mountain and beach sites which are suitable for camping.  

In picking a camp site, always take note of the weather conditions.  The rainy or monsoon season during December to February  renders some camp sites along the river trails of Taman Negara inaccessible.  Always check with relevant Park authorities first.

The lower altitudes of primary jungles like Taman Negara and Kenong Rimba Park in Pahang; Endau Rompin in Johor; Mulu and Lambir National Parks in Sarawak are humid, so your choice of tents should allow for good ventilation.  All enclosed nylon tents with sewn-in groundsheets are not recommended as they tend to condense air inside.  Cotton tents get heavy after absorbing water. When camping on high altitude locations such as Gunung Jerai in Kedah; Gunung Korbu in Perak; Gunung Tapis and Gunung Tahan in Pahang, choose a site sheltered from the wind and avoid the higher peaks when thunderstorms occur.

A self-contained tent with aluminium poles and stakes is best for mountain camping.

Only a basic setup is needed when camping at the marine parks or beaches in the country, such as Pulau Payar in Kedah; Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan; Pulau Redang, Terengganu; Pulau Tioman and Cherating in Pahang and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in Sabah.  A hammock or sleeping bag may do very well.

Although most of the National Parks and private tourist facilities furnish and rent out camping gear, it may be wiser to bring along basic camping necessities.  Remember to check on restrictions which may apply due to ecological or other reasons.  If unsure, contact the park authorities.

OTHER CAMPING SITES IN MALAYSIA

Gunung Jerai - Kedah. Pulau Payar marine Park - Kedah. Gunung Korbu Park - Perak. Port Dickson Beaches - Negeri Sembilan. Mersing Marine Park - Johor. Redang Marine Park - Terengganu. Kenong Rimba Park - Pahang. Gunung Tahan - Pahang. Gunung Tangga Lima Belas - Pahang. Tioman Marine Park - Pahang. Cherating Beach - Pahang. Gunung Tapis - Pahang. Gunung Alab - Sabah. Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park - Sabah. National Parks around Kuching area (lowland and hill forest) - Sarawak.

CAMPING TIPS

Whether camping in the damp rainforests, on sunny beaches or atop mountain peaks, there are a few easy environmental tips to keep in mind to protect and preserve Malaysia's camp sites.

Never cut down vegetation in order to make way for a camp site. Always choose a clear camping site freer of debris and away from rotting trees. Nights in the rainforests may get cooler than expected so bring along a waterproof jacket to keep you warm, as well as protection from the rain. During rainy periods, do not camp too near a river or at low areas. Whenever possible, try to avoid overusing popular camping areas and select an alternative location in order to minimise soil disturbance. Bring along reusable plastic cups and plates. Rubbish is to be collected and carried away when you leave, not simply buried.