A lot of people go on camping trips with family and friends because they're tired of city life or seek some adventure time. Whether you enjoy biking, hunting, hiking, or any other outdoor activity, camping offers you a way to focus completely on a hobby for a few days without any external distractions.
Just get the 4x4s out, round up friends and family members, stock up cars with sleeping bags, food, and camping gear, and get ready for the best camping trip in Saudi Arabia "Kashta".
Desert camping in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is well set up for camping, especially through its network of national parks. One of the most splendid places to camp in the desert is the desert region of Judah. It’s the only place to see the Devil’s Thumb! This iconic and very lonely-looking rock formation protrudes from the dusty desert surface as if it grew there by itself. The unique sight stands just 10 minutes outside Judah, west of Al Hofuf, and along the way, you can spot hidden caves and photograph camels ambling across a sea of sand.
Top sites for camping in Saudi Arabia
Al-Wahba Crater
If you are near Taif and Makkah Province, you can take a day trip to Wahba Crater to explore lava fields, which are an oasis and salt flats that have ruled the region for centuries. The area is exceptional for hiking, as the crater is 820 feet (250 meters) deep and easily explored on foot.
When you plan for a camping trip to Wahba Crater, you need to be fully prepared as there are no services available anywhere near the area. Visitors should pack their own fuel, tents, blankets, food, plenty of water, and enough supplies for a night in the desert.
Al-Wahba Crater is accessible by car. However, you can hire a driver from several destinations. The closest will be Jeddah (4 hours) and Taif (2.5 hours).
Reem Reserve (Khubayb Al Reem)
If you dream of an unforgettable overnight experience, we recommend that you go on a camping trip to Falcon International Camp at Reem Reserve (Khubayb Al Reem). This stunning natural attraction just west of Riyadh offers Bedouin-style camping where you sleep in tents in the open desert under a blanket of stars. The Saudi camping features experiences with trained falcons, romps through the desert in a camel caravan, and archery lessons. Please note that you should reserve a campsite before visiting the camp.
Al Souda Mountains
Another magical camping destination in Saudi Arabia is Asir National Park. Experience the highest mountain in Saudi Arabia, Jabal Souda - the lush valleys there feel so European with forests and fog.
When you wake up near Jabal Souda or Al Souda mountains and the villages of Bani Mazen, the first thing you will see is the sight clouds as far as the eye can see, as if you were dreaming. The region is also blessed with good weather year-round and, with cool rainfall in the hot summer months, the beautiful green fields and mountains will be a haven for hikers and campers.
The generosity of locals, their warm welcome and kindness, as well as the region’s diverse cuisine has caught every visitor's attention.
Camping in Dammam
During the winter, the Eastern Province has excellent camping weather, making it ideal for breezy afternoons. Your best marinated meals can be barbecued with just a grill, tents, and some prepared munchies. Here are some of the top Kashtah campgrounds if you're searching for the ideal places to de-stress and enjoy the outdoors.
Asfar lake
A great place to camp is Asfar Lake, which translates to "yellow lake." Reached via 4x4 vehicle, the destination is located farther along the city. This location makes a fantastic campsite where you can spend the night surrounded by the stunning scenery of the lake; thus, the drive is well worth it.
Makan Camp
Situated in the expansive desert of Dammam is Makan Camp, an established camping area. The primary attraction of this location is the abundance of planned activities it offers, including sand surfing, dune-bashing, and much more. Come here for an enjoyable trip; the tents are set up, ready for you to enjoy a hassle-free, breezy camping experience.
Uqair Beach
One of the Eastern Province's biggest and most historically significant beaches is Uqair Beach. This beach near Hofuf is a popular destination for families and friend groups looking to camp. Don't forget to pack all the gear, personal necessities, and camping necessities.
Bader Desert Camp Site
Try Bader Camp Site if you'd like to go camping outside without having to rough it. This desert landscape, which is close to the Eastern Dunes, has everything you need to enjoy yourself. It's a great place to enjoy yourself with your family.
