Most national parks in Malaysia provide jungle camping sites. Tehre are also many mountain and beach sites which are suitable for camping. In picking a camp site, always take note of the weather conditions. The rainy and monsoon season during December to February renders some camp sites along the river trails of Taman Negara inaccessible. Always check with relevant Park autorities first.
The lower altitudes of primary jungles like Taman Negara and Kenong Rimba Park in Pahang; Endau Rompin in Johor; Mulu and Lambir National Park in Sarawak are humid, so your choice of tents should allow for good ventilation. All-enclosed nylon tents with sewn-in groundsheets are not recommended.
When camping on high altitude locations such as Gunung Jerai in Kedah; Gunung Korbu in Pahang, choose a aite sheltered from the wind and avoid the higher peaks when thunderstorms occur. A self-contained tent with aluminum poles and stakes is best for mountain camping.
Only a basic set up is needed when camping at the marine parks or beaches in the country, such as Pulau Payar in Kedah; Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan; Pulau Redang, Terengganu; Pulau Tioman and Cherating in Pahang and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in Sabah. A hammock or sleeping bag may do very well.
• Gunung Jerai, Kedah
• Pulau Payar Marine Park, Kedah
• Gunung Korbu Park, Perak
• Port Dickson beaches, Negeri Sembilan
• Mesing Marine Park, Johor
• Redang Marine Park, Terengganu
• Kenong Rimba Park, Pahang
• Gunung Tahan, Pahang
• Gunung Tangga Lima Belas, Pahang
• Tioman Marine Park, Pahang
• Cherating Beach, Pahang
• Gunung Tapis, Pahang
• Gunung Alab, Sabah
• Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park, Sabah
• National Park around Kuching area (lowland and hill forests), Sarawak
Whether camping in the damp rainforests or sunny beaches or atop mountain peaks, there are a few easy environmental tips to keep in mind and preserve Malaysia's camp sites:
• Never cut down vegetation in order to make way for a camp site.
• Always choose a clear camping site free of deris and away from rotting trees.
• Nights in rainforests may get cooler than expected so bring along a waterproof jacket to keep you warm and protect from the rain.
• During rainy periods, do not camp too near a river or at low areas.
• Whenever possible, try to avoid overusing popular camping areas and select an alternative location in order to minimise soil disturbance.
• Bring along resuable plastic cups and plates.
• Rubbish is to be collected and carried away when you leave, not simply buried.