Top 7 Car Camping Spots in Korea for Beginners
Car camping has seen an explosive rise in popularity in recent years. It allows you to leave freely without the hassle of campground reservations and enjoy nature without the burden of accommodation costs. South Korea, with its diverse landscapes of seas, mountains, and rivers, offers many fantastic spots for car camping.
However, for those trying car camping for the first time, figuring out where to go and what to prepare can be a challenge. If you're looking for car camping destinations that are perfect for beginners, you've come to the right place!
This article introduces 7 of the most popular car camping havens in South Korea. We've carefully selected places beloved by car campers, so if you're planning a trip, be sure to check them out.
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| Top 7 Car Camping Destinations in Korea |
Mokgye Solbat Campsite, Chungju, Chungcheongbuk-do
Located near Chungju Lake, Mokgye Solbat Campsite is a beautiful car camping spot with a pine forest and scenic views of the Namhan River. It also accommodates auto camping and is an excellent place to enjoy a relaxing car camp by the river.
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| Mokgye Solbat Campsite |
Features
- Plenty of cool shade in the dense pine forest.
- Quiet camping possible with the Namhan River in the background.
- Mosquito repellent is essential as there can be many mosquitos.
- Be cautious on rainy days as the ground can become muddy.
- Online Reservation: Real-time booking is available on the Mokgye Solbat Campsite official website.
Mokgye Solbat Campsite
Chungju Mokgye Solbat Campsite - Facility information, reservation guide, operating hours, and directions.
cjfmc.or.krSaetbyeol Beach, Taean, Chungcheongnam-do
Taean has many great car camping spots, but Saetbyeol Beach is famous for its quiet and tranquil atmosphere. It's particularly suitable for family car camping as you can enjoy "haerujil" (clam digging).
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| Saetbyeol Beach |
Features
- Clam digging (haerujil) is possible on the beach.
- A great spot for stargazing at night.
- Tents can be set up.
- Be sure to check the tide times for clam digging.
- Restrooms are located a bit far away.
Naa Beach, Gyeongju, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Gyeongju is not just about history; it also boasts beautiful beachside car camping spots. Naa Beach is popular among car campers for its clean sandy shore and calm sea.
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| Naa Beach |
Features
- Calm waves and a clean sandy beach.
- Convenient with small seafood restaurants and cafes nearby.
- Tents can be set up.
- It gets crowded on weekends, so a weekday visit is recommended for a quieter atmosphere.
Yongdam Seom Bawi, Jinan, Jeollabuk-do
Made famous by a TV show, Yongdam Seom Bawi is a natural car camping spot with clear water and stunning scenery. It's a popular place for campers seeking a healing experience in a quiet environment.
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| Yongdam Seom Bawi |
Features
- Enjoy swimming in the clear, cool valley stream.
- Ideal for a healing camping trip in serene nature.
- Requires caution when driving as it's somewhat off the main road.
- Restrooms and convenience facilities are lacking, so prepare in advance.
Gosam Reservoir, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do
Gosam Reservoir is a charming car camping spot with calm waters and an open landscape. It is particularly popular with car campers who also want to enjoy freshwater fishing.
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| Gosam Reservoir |
Features
- Enjoy drives and walks around the reservoir.
- Perfect for fishing and car camping in a quiet atmosphere.
- Accessible within an hour from the Seoul metropolitan area.
- Check in advance as some areas are designated no-fishing zones.
- Be prepared for insects, especially during the summer.
Jangho Beach Camping Site, Samcheok, Gangwon-do
Janghohang Port is a car camping destination boasting stunning coastal scenery, so beautiful it's called the "Naples of Korea." The unique landscape combined with the emerald sea attracts many car campers. It also allows auto camping, making it a great summer getaway.
Samcheok City Jangho Beach Camping Site
Samcheok City Jangho Beach Camping Site, Reservations, Booking Information
janghocamping.kr
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| Jangho Beach Camping Site |
Features
- Beautiful ocean views and a clean white sand beach.
- Enjoy coastal walks, snorkeling, and swimming.
- Convenient access to nearby cafes and convenience stores.
- It can be crowded during peak season, making quiet camping difficult.
- Adjust your parking position on days with high waves.
- Reservations can be made on the Jangho Beach Camping Site website.
Sacheon Beach, Gangneung, Gangwon-do
Even among Gangneung's beaches, Sacheon Beach is a great place for car camping due to its quiet and relaxed atmosphere. It's beloved by car campers for its wide sandy beach and emerald sea.
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| Sacheon Beach |
Features
- Emerald sea and a wide sandy beach.
- Easy access to famous local restaurants and cafes.
- Public restrooms and showers are available.
- It can be difficult to find a spot during the peak summer season.
- Consider parking direction as sea winds can be strong.
Important Car Camping Etiquette
Distinguishing Between Legal and Illegal Car Camping
With the recent popularity of car camping, the issue of illegal camping is often raised. Staying overnight in prohibited areas or activities that damage nature can be problematic.
Where You Can Legally Car Camp
- Public parking lots where car camping is officially permitted.
- National parks and facilities run by local governments where camping is allowed.
- On private land with the owner's permission.
Where Car Camping May Be Illegal
- Camping on private property without permission.
- Camping in designated prohibited areas such as certain parts of national parks or beaches.
- Parking that violates traffic laws, such as on roadsides or shoulders.
When planning your car camping trip, it is crucial to check in advance whether the location is permitted.
Restroom and Waste Disposal
One of the biggest challenges while car camping is managing restrooms and waste. It's best to take all your trash home. If disposal is possible at the campsite, please sort it correctly and use official volume-rated bags. Some spots have public restrooms, but many do not, so check beforehand and prepare accordingly.
Solutions
- Use a portable toilet or nearby public restrooms if the site has no facilities.
- If there are no trash cans, prepare trash bags to take everything back home.
- Store food waste in sealed containers to avoid harming the environment.
As you are camping in nature, practicing basic environmental etiquette is essential.
Seasonal Preparations and Safety Rules
Since weather and conditions vary by season, it's necessary to prepare accordingly for car camping.
Summer Car Camping
- Prepare a window fan or circulator to regulate the temperature inside the vehicle.
- Insect screens and mosquito repellent are essential to keep bugs out.
- Store food in a cooler or icebox.
Winter Car Camping
- Prepare a car camping heater (electric mat, hot packs, diesel heater).
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent condensation inside the vehicle.
- Equip your vehicle with chains or snow tires for snowy and icy roads.
In autumn and spring, daily temperature ranges can be large, so prepare warm clothing thoroughly.
Car Camping Tips for Beginners
Preparing Essential Gear
To enjoy a comfortable and convenient car camping experience, there are some essential pieces of gear you must have.
Basic Essential Gear
- Mat & Bedding: A must-have for a comfortable sleep inside your vehicle.
- Car Blinds or Curtains: For privacy and blocking out external light.
- Portable Lantern & Lights: Essential for nighttime illumination.
- Power Bank & Inverter: Necessary for charging electronic devices.
Recommended Additional Gear
- Folding Box: Helps to keep your belongings organized.
- Portable Toilet: Useful in places without restrooms.
- Small Gas Burner & Cookware: Allows for simple cooking.
Car camping is a convenient way to travel freely and immerse yourself in nature. Beginners can have an even more pleasant experience by choosing spots with easy parking and access to restrooms and other amenities.
This guide introduced 7 popular car camping destinations in South Korea. There are many scenic spots in each region, so choose a place that fits your style.
For those new to car camping, the keys are to have the essential gear, prepare for the season and weather, and choose a safe location. Use this guide to enjoy a wonderful car camping adventure!