5 secluded camping sites near Hanoi

Some visitors prefer to camp in secluded places to relax and enjoy their spare time, instead of dealing with the crowds and noise at busy tourist destinations during the holidays.

Nguyen Anh Khoi, 45, from Hanoi is a camping enthusiast and has been doing it for more than three years. He recommends these places for a camping trip near Hanoi.

Vien Nam Peak

Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of neighboring mountains in Hoa Binh from the top of Vien Nam. Photo by Nguyen Van Khoi

Vien Nam Peak is about 50 kilometers away from the center of Hanoi, in Quang Tien Commune, Tan Yen District, Hoa Binh Province. It is more than 1,000 meters above sea level and offers a stunning view of Hoa Binh center and the surrounding mountains.

The temperature here is cooler than in the city, and it can get icy at night. You can enjoy watching the sunset and sunrise from the peak, and if you are lucky, you might even have a chance to see a sea of clouds. The area is untouched by development, so there are no camping facilities. So make sure you bring everything you need for your trip.

The road from the base of the mountain to the top is about 10 km long. It is narrow, steep and rocky, with many trees on both sides. The best vehicles for this route are motorbikes and cars with high ground clearance. You are suggested to visit only if you are confident in your driving skills.

Campsite coordinates: 20.949149, 105.440315 (Google Maps).

Tuy Lai Lake

The atmosphere and views of Tuy Lai Lake. Photo by Nguyen Van Khoi

Located in My Duc District, Tuy Lai Lake spans 26 square kilometers with rich ecosystems of rivers, mountains, limestone, caves, and valleys. It is 45 kilometers away from the center of Hanoi.

The rocks, islands and mountains create a beautiful contrast with the lake surface, resembling a mini version of Ha Long Bay. Visitors can relax in the fresh and peaceful nature. You can also bring an inflatable boat to paddle across the lake and explore the area. Fishing and swimming in the lake are free of charge.

The road to Tuy Lai Lake is easy to access by both motorbikes and cars. You can visit for a day or stay overnight for free. There are no camping facilities available.

Campsite coordinates: 20.776167, 105.655611

Red River bank

Camping sites along the Red River are accessible by motorbike. Photo by Nguyen Van Khoi

You can also find many camping spots along the Red River. Khoi recommends the area in Van Nam commune, Phuc Tho district, about 40 kilometers away from the center of Hanoi.

This area has a large, flat grassland for camping, where you can watch the sunset and sunrise on the Red River. You will get a sense of a tranquil village in Vietnam as you watch buffaloes and cows grazing peacefully in nearby areas. Other activities include fishing, swimming in the river, and making a campfire.

The route is straightforward to find. However, this is a completely natural area, so there are no services available. Be aware that there are many mosquitoes and insects and the afternoon can be windy.

Campsite coordinates: 21.158765.105.606905

Ca Chep Island

Visitors can experience the calmness and beauty of the Red River from Ca Chep Island. Photo by Nguyen Van Khoi

Ca Chep island is by the Red River in Hong Ha Commune, Dan Phuong District. It is more than 20 km from the center of Hanoi. The place is spacious, with clean and short grass. It is suitable for outdoor activities such as flying kites, playing football, or riding off-road. Khoi advises tourists to camp on the mudflats or sandy beaches, and away from the path of ships, to avoid noise.

The site was once popular on social media and attracted many campers. However, it has now regained its quiet, wild charm.

The road to Ca Chep island is easy to travel by both motorbike and car. You can buy necessary items at a market outside the Ca Chep Island dike. There are also some camping services nearby that you can contact if needed.

Campsite coordinates: 21.137517, 105.687693

Bui Hill

Bui Hill features a serene ambiance and beautiful views. Photo by Nguyen Van Khoi

Bui Hill is on the border between Chuong My District in Hanoi and Luong Son District in Hoa Binh. It is about 40 km away from the center of Hanoi.

Bui Hill is famed for its reed fields along the hillside around October. In the summer, it is also great for camping. There are two areas on the hill where you can try paragliding.

The campsite is still natural, so there are no camping services available. When camping overnight, you should bring stakes and anchor ropes to secure your tent because it can get windy on the top of the hill.

Campsite coordinates: 20.808617, 105.568389