Photo credit: Ronnie R Gampaih

By Geena Roslyna

POV: You’re winding down after a long day, scrolling through your phone, and suddenly your feed is filled with dreamy camping vlogs around Sabah. You imagine waking up to the cold morning mist in Kundasang with Mount Kinabalu in view, relaxing by the river in Kiulu, or ending the day by admiring a gorgeous beach sunset in Kota Belud. 

Now that you’re reading this, you might already be planning a camping trip in Sabah. The Land Below the Wind has everything to offer, and you’re in luck! We’ve rounded up some of the top camping spots across Sabah to help you plan your next weekend escape. 

KOTA KINABALU

Best for: Hilltop views & quick city escapes

Just outside the city, these spots are perched on scenic hilltops, surrounded by lush forests. 

1. Backyard Kokol 

2. Kokol Mamahill Camping Site

2. Tamaza ACV, Telipok

3. Shalom Valley Park

4. JP’s Campsite Santai2 & Pogun Jo 

5. Kokol Hobbiton Forest

PENAMPANG

Best for: Riverside & forest camping close to town

Just a short drive from Kota Kinabalu, Penampang offers riverside and hillside campsites with peaceful surroundings:

1. Tamanza, Donggonggon

2. Ritoninipot Campsite, Kg Babagon

4. Camping Sub Stesen Inobong, Croker Range Park

5. Tolungan Riverside, Kg Notorus

TUARAN (TAMPARULI/KIULU)

Best for: River camping & water-based activities

Kiulu and Tamparuli are among Sabah’s most popular camping districts, known for rafting, tubing, and scenic river valleys.

Featured campsites include:

• River Bay Beach, Kampung Laya-Laya
• Cape Rhino Centre
• Kondis Point, Kiulu
• Outreach Borneo Camp, Kiulu
• Boribi Campsite, Tamparuli
• Kiulu River Park, Kiulu

KOTA BELUD

Best for: Beach sunsets & mountain backdrops

Coastal campsites and beachside retreats make Kota Belud ideal for a seaside escape:

• Polumpung Melangkap View Camp Site
• Tegudon Tourism Village
• DRB Nanamun Beach
• Eco Camp Bayayat 

KUNDASANG / RANAU

Best for: Cool weather & Mount Kinabalu views 

No camping list in Sabah is complete without Kundasang and Ranau. Expect misty mornings, rolling hills, and star-filled skies.

Top spots include: 

• Mentoki Hideout Campsite
• Hounon Ridge Farmstay & Camping
• Sosodikon Campsite
• Awan Awan Campsite & Cafe
• Tiwung Escape, Kundasang
• Langanan Campground
• Titimpakon Campsite & Staycation

KUALA PENYU

Best for: Quiet beaches, sunsets & untouched coastal nature

In Kuala Penyu, expect quiet beaches, glowing sunsets, and laid-back seaside vibes far from the crowds.

Top spots include:

• Tempurong Seaside Lodge
• Tempurong Golden Beach Resort 

KUDAT

Best for: Tip of Borneo, clear waters & island‑style coastal scenery

For dramatic cliffs and fiery sunsets, head north to Kudat where turquoise waters, ocean breezes, and some of Sabah’s best beachside stargazing awaits.

Top spots include:

• Secret Place Cafe & Camping
• Max Campsite

Things to Consider before Camping in Sabah

• Contact campsite operators in advance for availability. Advanced bookings are always preferred to accommodate you and your travel companions. 
• Check weather forecasts, especially during monsoon season. Highland areas such as Kundasang are prone to cold temperatures and can drop significantly at night. 
• Bring proper camping gear and safety equipment, especially for riverside campsites which are prone to sudden water level changes during heavy rain. 
• Mobile signals may be limited to slow in certain rural areas.
• Basic facilities vary between campsites (toilets, electricity, water supply)

Your Next Sabah Adventure Awaits

So whether you’re keen to explore the highlands, want to dip your toes in a river, or just bask in the golden hour, Sabah has a campsite for every adventurer. Pack your bags and don’t wait any longer, your next outdoor escape is waiting! 

Disclaimer: Visitors are advised to contact campsite operators directly for the latest updates before planning their trip.