Tours

Hanoi’s Camping Havens: A Nature-Lover’s Paradise

In recent years, camping has emerged as a popular trend among urban families in Hanoi, enhancing the city's allure as a tourist destination.

Administrator

3 August, 2024

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Hoang Thi Linh, a 30-year-old resident of Hanoi’s Nam Tu Liem district, eagerly anticipates Fridays as it marks the beginning of her family’s regular camping trips.

“Camping is a favorite pastime for my family. It offers an opportunity to immerse ourselves in nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life,” Linh shared with The Hanoi Times. “We’ve been camping for a few years now, and it’s become our favorite way to unwind and reconnect with the outdoors.”

Linh and her family often venture to nearby camping spots, such as Yen So Park, Ecopark Urban Area, Ba Vi National Park, and Son Son District. These locations offer affordable getaways, free from hotel expenses, and provide a refreshing escape into nature with clean, fresh air.

Linh’s family enjoys a camping trip to Ba Vi National Park, capturing memorable moments in nature. Photo courtesy of Hoang Thi Linh.

“Camping does require some planning and may not suit those with busy schedules,” Linh added. “You need to research locations, organize transportation, and prepare your own meals and equipment. But for my family, it’s a chance to bond over outdoor cooking, explore nature, and create lasting memories.”

Tran Dinh Diep, an experienced camper, shared his insights: “It’s essential to pack the basics like tents, sleeping bags, firewood for campfires, folding chairs, and a first aid kit. These days, you can easily purchase camping gear online.”

Diep also recommended choosing a campsite near a water source, especially for longer trips, and opting for locations with mobile phone signal availability if you’re new to camping.

Cao Thi Lan, a mother of two, shared her love for family camping trips: “Even a single night of camping can spark a sense of adventure in children. It exposes them to new environments, unique sights and sounds, and the joy of sleeping under the stars. It’s a chance to disconnect from electronic devices and create memorable experiences in nature.”

Lan also emphasized the importance of making childhood memorable: “Camping is a wonderful way to introduce your children to the wonders of nature. Whether it’s roasting marshmallows over a campfire or trying outdoor activities like canoeing, climbing, or fishing, these experiences will stay with them forever. Just remember to leave no trace and take your rubbish with you when you leave.”

Hanoi’s Emerging Camping Haven

Hanoi is transforming into a camping paradise, boasting breathtaking natural scenery and spacious areas perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. From climbing and trekking to kayaking and fishing, the region offers a diverse range of activities.

Ba Vi District, located on Hanoi’s outskirts, presents exciting camping opportunities. With its varied landscape of mountains, rivers, and forests, it beckons adventurers seeking ecotourism and outdoor sports like mountaineering and hiking.

Ba Vi National Park attracts campers with its natural beauty. Photo: Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat.

Nguyen Phi Hung, Director of the Ba Vi National Park’s Center for Environmental Education and Services, shared insights into the park’s camping offerings: “We’ve established multiple camping sites at various altitudes. Our center provides equipment and guides for trekking, as well as visits to cultural and historical sites, including French ruins.”

Hoang Van Phuong, manager of Melia Ba Vi Mountain Retreat, noted a surge in demand for their camping tour services this summer. “Ba Vi National Park’s natural ecology is a draw for campers, and it’s becoming a sought-after destination for both local and international tourists,” Phuong stated.

Pham Hai Quynh, Director of the Asian Tourism Development Institute, emphasized the need for suburban districts to promote safe campsites and for tour operators to cater to diverse age groups with a range of activities.

Professional Camping Experiences with a Cautious Approach

Cao Thi Lan and her family enjoy a camping trip at Ban Rom Ecotourism Complex. Photo courtesy of Cao Thi Lan.

Hanoi is home to several camping groups, such as Camping Together, Hanoi Camping – Picnic Association, and Camping with Children. These communities foster a spirit of adventure by sharing campsite recommendations, exchanging experiences, and planning trips together.

For those seeking a more structured experience, professional campsites like Son Tinh Camp, Ban Rom Ecotourism Area, Dong Mo Camping Sport, and Thien Son-Suoi Nga Ecotourism Area offer a range of activities and rentals. These sites provide opportunities for fishing, boating, campfires, and rentals for tents and bicycles.

Additionally, locations like Tram Mountain and Ham Lon Mountain, once frequented primarily by hikers and artists, are now attracting families for camping excursions, further enriching Hanoi’s camping culture.

However, Tran Trung Hieu, Director of Delta Travel Company, cautioned about certain concerns: “While many opt to camp during summer and fall, there are challenges due to a lack of awareness. These include camping in inappropriate places, lighting fires in prohibited areas, and leaving garbage behind.”

To address these issues, travel agencies are encouraged to develop innovative tourism products that showcase the region’s strengths. Ta Huu Chien, director of Suvina Travel Company, affirmed the appeal of camping, adding, “With methodical and professional development, it can become an effective and economical tourism offering.”

Pham Duy Nghia, Director of VietFoot Travel Company, suggested integrating trekking and environmental protection activities into camping tours. He also emphasized the importance of providing timely safety information to guests.