Filipinos are afforded ample time to plan short vacations due to numerous long weekends and extended holidays. The growing availability of unique and customized AirBnb rentals provides a more affordable option to traditional lodging accommodations. As a result, staycations have become so popular among Filipinos that many opt to spend long weekends and holidays at home or in a rented condo unit, enticed by the significantly lower cost of AirBnb rentals compared to standard hotel rooms.

It would be a missed opportunity to spend your leisure time cooped up indoors, given the abundant natural beauty of the Philippines. With over 7,107 islands making up the country, exploring them all would take a lifetime, and there’s always a new travel destination to add to your bucket list. However, before venturing further afield, it’s worthwhile to start with something closer to home and check out the campsites near Manila.

Campsites near Manila

1) WK Forest Reserve and Campgrounds (Sta. Ines, Tanay, Rizal)

Travel time: An hour and a half away from the city

WK Forest Reserve and Campgrounds is a newly established campsite located roughly an hour and a half from Manila. Accessible only by 4X4 vehicles, motorbikes, or hiking, it is a popular destination for off-road enthusiasts. Despite its distance from the city of Tanay, the campsite offers a secluded and secure environment for camping. While traversing the area may require some walking for those without a 4X4 or motorcycle, the tranquil setting and picturesque views make it a worthwhile experience. Visit their website for information on upcoming camping and astrophotography events.

2) Quest Adventure Camp  (Pantay Quatro, Sitio Buhangin, Teresa, Rizal)

Travel time: Two hours away from the city

If you’re new to camping and want a more comfortable experience, consider glamping. Glamping has gained popularity among travelers, and for a good reason. It allows you to satisfy your adventurous side while still enjoying modern amenities like a comfortable bed and clean bathroom. In addition, some glampsites offer additional activities for their guests to stand out from the competition. Quest Adventure Glampsite is one such location where you can enjoy exciting outdoor activities during the day and relax by the bonfire at night.

3)  Mount Purro Nature Reserve (Barangay Calawis, Antipolo, Rizal)

Travel time: Two hours away from the city

Mount Purro Nature Reserve aims to provide guests with the opportunity to commune with nature within its well-maintained activity areas, which include a spacious bonfire area. As a family-run eco-park, Mount Purro Nature Reserve promotes guests’ connections with nature and each other through activities such as toasting marshmallows, sharing stories by the bonfire, and even having jam sessions.

4) Fortune Island (Fortune Island, Nasugbu, Batangas)

Travel time: Three hours away from Manila

Fortune Island is a beautiful campsite that takes campers back to the basics, as it doesn’t offer any accommodations. Visitors need to bring their own tents and provisions, which may require extra effort, but camping on the island is well worth camping. The abandoned resort on the island boasts stunning views of the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas, making for spectacular scenery day and night.

5) Springs Mountain Park (KM56 Marcos Highway, Sitio Mayagay 2, Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal)

Travel time: Two hours away from the city

Spring Mountain Park is an excellent option for campers who want a nearby campsite and is easily accessible just a two-hour drive from Manila. This private park has various amenities and activities for guests to enjoy. For example, campers can gather around a bonfire in the evening, which the staff can arrange. This allows one to relax and share stories while toasting marshmallows without any additional preparation. 

Make the most of your holidays and long weekends by scheduling camping trips in advance. Luckily, there’s no need to travel far for your outdoor adventures with the curated list of nearby camping sites provided above. Plan your next camping trip near the city with these options.