Missing the Great Outdoors? Check Out Some of the Campsites Just Outside Metro Manila

Welcome to the camp life.
by Jon Christoffer Obice | May 04, 2021

If you’re an adventurous Filipino, you’re probably either a beach person or a mountain person. The former is understandable since the country is an archipelago and several of its islands have been consistently topping the lists of best beaches in the world. But if you are the latter, you’re probably more inclined into the cold, cozy, and chill vibes in high altitudes. You could also be interested in conquering mountains or are simply looking for quiet time in the tent while drinking coffee or getting snuggled up in that jacket you barely use.

Already planning out your next camping adventure? We’ve made your life easier by rounding up 5 accessible campsites outside Metro Manila.

 

Treasure Mountain (Tanay, Rizal)

Tanay is such a hotspot for easy hikes and campsites. You’d never run out of spots to choose from they’re almost beside each other since Rizal’s terrain is pretty much shaped by the Sierra Madre mountain range. During Amihan season, Treasure Mountain is known for its ‘sea of clouds,’ almost similar to that of Sagada’s Kiltepan Peak, but cheaper and nearer. Just 1.5 hours away from Metro Manila, you wouldn’t even sweat hiking up to the peak (you could do it in 10 minutes).

The entrance fee for a day-tour trip is P150 and for overnight, it’s P200. Children have discounted rates. Tent rental rates vary from P500 to 800 depending on the size, plus a P1,000 deposit fee. If you’re not a fan of tents, you could also rent cottages ranging from P350-500 or a kubo that charges P3,500 for a maximum of 6 guests.

Other activities include high obstacles rope course, spider’s web, ATV, and swimming. You may visit their site here.

 

 

Agoho Kampsite (San Narciso, Zambales)

Who says mountain camping is only high up there in the altitudes? In Agoho Kampsite, you can have access to San Narciso, Zambales’ sea and mountains. This green-friendly camping site could be 3-4 hours of drive from Manila. Here, the entire stretch of sand could be your camping site, just don’t get too close to the sea.

Since there are no tent rentals here, campers are urged to bring their own tents. The inviting sea breeze also attracts surfers due to the strong waves. Pay only P199 per person for day camping and P350 for overnight camping. You could also set up a bonfire, grill by the beach, and play volleyball here. Parking is free. For more info, contact their page.

 

 

Kaliraya Surf Kamp (Cavinti, Laguna)

Now that we’re done with beach camping, how about lakeside camping? Just 2.5 hours away from Manila, Caliraya Lake in Laguna will bring you a sense of calmness. Aptly named after the lake, Kaliraya Surf Kamp is a playground for campers who want some water activities. You can live your nomadic van life dreams and just park your vehicle beside the tent. You could rent tents for P800 up to P1,500 and just pay an additional P100-300 for the pitching fee depending on the size of the tent. The overnight fee is P200 per person.

This serene place is also open for day campers, just pay P100 for an entrance fee. If you’re not a fan of tents, you can also rent nipa hut cottages for that probinsya feels or go edgy with repurposed eco-friendly container van rooms. Other activities include kayaking, fishing, swimming, kite surfing, jet skiing, frisbee, and stargazing. Complete your Laguna trip with a visit to nearby tourist spots like the famous Pagsanjan Falls, Japanese Garden, and Lumot Lake. Visit their page for more info about their amenities.

 

 

Mount Purro Nature Reserve (Antipolo, Rizal)

Still in Rizal but nearer to the capital Antipolo, Mount Purro Nature Reserve is the perfect embodiment of a quick city getaway. If you go to this eco-park you’re not only satisfying your urge but also supporting the rehabilitation of the Upper Marikina Watershed and the indigenous Dumagat tribe that lives within it.

Choose where you want to set up your tent, the fee ranges from P500-800. If nature’s calling comes, they have clean toilets and bathrooms to accommodate you. They also have cottages and loft-style nipa huts for overnight stays with rates ranging from P4,000-6,000 for a maximum of 8 people. Order from their restaurant or grill in the open area, the choice is yours. If you got bored, swim in the pool or take the trail to the nearby Malvar’s Peak (419 masl) for an early sunrise hike. The entrance fee is P300 for children and P500 for adults. Weekend rates are slightly higher. Visit their site here for more info.

 

 

Kuta Bungliw Eco-Lodge & Campsite (General Nakar, Quezon)

Been too familiarized with Rizal? Why not cross the border and go a little bit farther into General Quezon and nestle in this eco-friendly mountain lodging. When we say “nestle,” it really means to settle to a bird’s nest, similar to those you see in Bali. Mountains, rivers, fresh air, and thick forest—all elements of nature are here. During colder months, you can also catch ‘sea of clouds’ here. They don’t provide rental tents here so you are encouraged to bring your own, just pay P300 for the camping fee. If you want more comfortable accommodation, you may rent lodges with rates ranging from P800-2,500 depending on the number of persons.

Kuta Bungliw is 2-3 hours away from Manila. It also welcomes motorcycle riders and cyclists. Just pay P20 for two-wheeled vehicles and P100 for cars for the parking fee. Prepare for a mini-hike from the parking lot to the accommodation too, the 15-20-minute hike on the rough road is quite a challenge. Check their page for more details.

 

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