NParks Won't Fine You Here: Legal Campsites In Singapore
Car camping (camping near your car and possibly setting up a tent attached to your vehicle) may be popular in other countries like Japan, but it's unfortunately not legal here in Singapore, as one man found out on Monday (7 July).
After setting up his tent, the man was approached by two NParks officers and told that he wasn't allowed to camp without a permit, and that the area where he'd set up camp was unsafe due to the presence of other cars driving nearby.
But what if I want to go camping?
Fret not: There are a few places where you can legally go camping in Singapore, as long as you follow regulations.
The first step? Applying for a camping permit.
According to the NParks website, you can apply for a permit if you meet all of the following criteria:
- Are at least 16 years of age (only applies to the person applying for the permit, not the other intended campers)
- Have a valid residential address in Singapore
- Must not currently have an existing camping permit
- Must not exceed the limit of 4 camping days per month
You'll need to apply for the camping permit at least 2 weeks and no more than 2 months before the date you intend to camp, and can do so online here using your Singpass or at any AXS station islandwide.
A single camping permit allows you to set up one tent for up to 6 people, including your kids. If you want to pitch a second tent, another valid camper will need to apply for a second permit.
You're allowed to camp at your chosen site from 9 am on each camping day that you've booked until 9 am the following day. Do note that even if you're only setting up a tent during the day, a permit is still required, regardless of the duration that you intend to pitch your tent.
The permit is also non-cancellable, regardless of wet weather or change of plans on your part, and you cannot change your date or location once the booking is confirmed.
IMAGE: NPARKS
Okay, but where am I allowed to camp?
You can choose from 1 of 4 places in Singapore with designated camping areas, each of which have their own merits.
Note: If you're interested in barbecuing while camping at a park with BBQ pits, you'll need to book a barbecue pit permit in advance to secure the use of a BBQ pit. See the NParks website here for more details.
IMAGE: NPARKS
Where to camp: Areas D and G (excluding the Cyclist Park in Area D)
Why you should camp here: The ever-popular East Coast Park has plenty of fun activities that you can enjoy with your family and friends.
You can go cycling or inline skating thanks to the numerous rental shops available, or relax by fishing along the beachfront (just be sure to keep an eye out for "No fishing" zones). For a true camping experience, rent one of 74 available BBQ pits (available at Areas C, D, E, F, and G) and cook up a smoky beachside feast.
In addition, East Coast Park is one of only three parks that allows kite flying. However, do note that you can only fly kites between the Boat Storage Shed (Area B2) and Bayshore Canal (between Area F1 and F2). Kite flying is prohibited elsewhere in the park due to aviation-related safety concerns.
Where to camp: Area 3
Why you should camp here: West Coast Park is home to a massive Adventure Playground with climbing nets, swings, flying fox ziplines, and even a wheelchair-accessible inclusive play area. The best part? It's located just adjacent to the Area 3 campsite, so you won't have to worry about a long walk back to your tent afterwards.
While West Coast Park only has 9 BBQ pits, all of which are located in Area 2, it also has a McDonald's conveniently located near the playground and campsite.
Did we mention that West Coast Park is another one of the parks that permits kite flying? And unlike East Coast Park, there are no restrictions on where you can fly kites within the park.
Where to camp: Areas 1 and 3
Why you should camp here: Pasir Ris Park is good for nature lovers, with a 3-storey birdwatching tower in Area 2 where you can observe the many species of birds that live in the park.
There's also a nature trail that you can explore, with 3 distinct areas to look out for: A dense, 6-hectare mangrove forest home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, a volunteer-run Kitchen Garden that showcases herbs and plants with both culinary and medicinal purposes, and a Butterfly Garden with various species of gorgeous butterflies.
For something a bit more out of the ordinary, head to Gallop Stable in Area 2 for horse or pony rides, suitable for both kids and adults.
Finally, if you're looking to host a BBQ, there are 65 BBQ pits available across all four areas of the park.
4. Pulau Ubin
Where to camp: Jelutong, Mamam and Endut Senin Campsites
Why you should camp here: If you want a camping experience that lets you experience the great outdoors away from modern amenities, look no further than Pulau Ubin, arguably our most famous offshore island.
Here, you can explore the rich biodiversity that the island has to offer, as well as the various heritage sites showcasing Pulau Ubin's culture and history.
Wondering what to eat? While there are a few food establishments operated by the locals selling seafood and traditional cuisine, you can also fish for your dinner and cook your catch at the campsite's designated campfire area.
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