Wazzup Pilipinas!?
It is a known fact that the Philippines is famous for its white-sand beaches, pristine waters, verdant mountains, and diverse landscapes.
However, much of the country’s tourism highlight is focused on the coasts--so much so that the majestic mountainsides are often overlooked and overshadowed. With the rise of avid mountaineers and camping enthusiasts, however, the spotlight has shifted to the country’s varied campgrounds—which intrepid individuals will certainly enjoy. Indeed, there is no shortage of
campsites in the Philippines, with many of them having their own distinct character to appeal to different kinds of campers or hikers. Unfortunately, many are still not quite so keen to try camping owing to the many challenges that come with the outdoor activity.
Talks of camping in the Philippines are always interlaced with long travel times, pitching a tent, possible bug bites, things to pack for the trip, pitching a tent, building your own fire, and maybe, learning how to forage and cook your own food. With all that considered, it may seem like a trip to the beach is an easier excursion to plan logistically. But despite all of these, there is quite nothing like the experience of pitching your tent in the middle of a campground to afford you some time to finally disconnect from the world. After all, in modern times, most of us are connected to the internet 24/7 or are perhaps too immersed in our
social media feeds. By camping in the middle of nowhere, you get to have a break from all that. Indeed, nothing beats being unplugged and getting to rejuvenate by reconnecting with nature. Just imagine waking up with no buzzing phone to bother you or no notifications to get back on—in your very own private corner of the world. Sounds like a riveting plan, right?
So, if you have finally decided to go on a camping trip, below are the best campsites in the Philippines:
1.) Fortune Island (Nasugbu, Batangas)
Located just a couple of hours away from Metro Manila, Nasugbu Batangas is a renowned beach town surrounded by crystal waters and fine sand. While Fortune Island is mostly frequented by beachgoers looking to pepper their beach trip with adventure, it is also an excellent choice for campers who are looking for a bit of a challenge. Fearless outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy this campsite for the added challenge: having to ditch basic amenities. At Fortune Island, campers are to give up electricity and running water in exchange for a myriad of activities such as swimming, light trekking, cliff diving, and relaxing under the sun. For campers who wish to update their social media feeds, Fortune Island offers an array of Instagrammable areas with its iconic Grecian pillar ruins that make for picturesque and scenic photos.
2.) Anawangin Cove (San Antonio, Zambales)
If you cannot decide between going to the beach and camping on the mountainside, you need not worry. The town of San Antonio is littered with plenty of beautiful coves where visitors can enjoy both beach lounging and camping. One of San Antonio’s many beach camps is Anawangin Cove, where the waters are cobalt blue, and the sand is grey but fine. Anawangin Cove’s waters make for the perfect morning swim. It is known as one of the best beach camping sites the country has to offer. Its peaceful ambiance is ideal for travelers who are looking for a little peace and quiet with a bit of adventure on the side. As the campsite is surrounded by tall trees and mountain landscapes, travelers are encouraged to go unplugged. There is no electricity and network coverage which compels visitors to disconnect themselves from the world and relax amidst nature’s best offers.
3.) Calaguas Island (Camarines Norte)
If you wish to visit one of the most pristine beaches in Luzon, look no further than Calaguas. Known as one of the most popular beach destinations, Calaguas Island has become a staple in many summer itineraries—especially for those who are looking to get away from the daily grind of the metropolis. If you are looking for the perfect island vibes, Calaguas Island’s powdery white sand and azure waters will certainly be to your satisfaction.
4.) BLOC Camp Site (Laguna)
One of the many challenges that come with planning a camping trip is the long drive it usually takes. Well, for those who are unable to do a prolonged drive to a campsite, you may opt to set up camp nearby, such as at BLOC Camp Site in Laguna. Perfect for those who are looking for picturesque mountainsides and lakes over beaches and the sea, this campsite in Laguna is a nearby alternative to far-flung campsites. It is the perfect place to go camping for individuals who are looking for an abbreviated version of an extended outdoor excursion. Located just a few hours away from the metropolis, this campsite is very accessible and surrounded by greenery—all complemented by a serene ambiance. Getting to the campsite may not require a long drive, but the serene environment is more than enough to make your escape perfect. Apart from camping, there is a myriad of activities to enjoy, such as swimming in the lake, paddle boarding, riding rowboats, or visiting an islet of your choice.
5.) Ten Cents to Heaven (Tanay, Rizal)
If you wish to wake up to the perfect view, then set up camp at Ten Cents to Heaven. The campsite’s name was not coined by accident but rather because it is one of the campsites in the Philippines that offers a generous panoramic view of the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges and laguna de Bay. As the low-lying clouds tend to descend on the campsite, visitors often feel like they are closer to heaven, hence the campsite’s moniker. Apart from camping, Ten Cents to Heaven offers an array of sports facilities such as a four-lane zip line, wall climbing, a tower for rappelling, a rope course, a free fall, and a 4X4 adventure ride.
CONCLUSION
Camping may be an outdoor activity that has more challenges than the rest, but it is very much worth it. It may take a little bit of getting used to during your first time, but the experience will certainly be rewarding. You will learn more about yourself and discover that you can even do things you once thought you were not capable of.
Indeed, camping is an adventure that may push you to your limits but also allows you the opportunity to grow, evolve, and know more about yourself. More importantly, camping is an avenue for you to disconnect and reconnect with nature and your surroundings.
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Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
