10 Campgrounds in Sabah: Best hotel deals for 2023

May 10, 2023 Brain Ambrose

Discover the best Campgrounds in Sabah including Bigfin Beach Resort, Uncle Tan Wildlife Camp, Tampat Do Aman Jungle Camp, Lupa Masa Rainforest Camp, Kinabatangan Jungle Camp, Tungog Rainforest Eco Camp, Hounon Ridge Farmstay & Camping, 2win Hill Park, Pelumpung Melangkap View Campsite, D'idiama Campsite.
Things to do in Sabah

1. Bigfin Beach Resort

Pantai Merakit Kampung Mengkabar, Kota Belud 89150 Malaysia
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 22 reviews

Bigfin Beach Resort

Located on a beautiful beach in secluded Mengkabar bay, we offer hilltop beachfront accommodation with dive centre and restaurant nestled in the surrounding jungle. We have new en-suite double rooms for a comfortable yet remote stay, and camping for those on a budget. Both have stunning views of the surrounding bay, Pandan Island and Mount Kinabalu in the distance. We offer PADI dive courses, fun dives, snorkelling, kayaking and jungle trekking. A perfect hideaway for travellers who would like to chill, relax and enjoy the lush, peaceful surrounding nature.

A place definitely worth visiting if you’re in KK

Reviewed By Govindan98

I’ve actually been here more than 5 times. Twice this year! It’s a really really great place to chill and unwind from the city. All of the staff are friendly and fun people, they make the trip even more enjoyable. The rooms are comfortable but you wouldn’t want to spend time in there during the day tho it’s just too hot. They run on solar power and generators for power supply (which is I think awesome) so no aircon or water heaters. You should be on the hammock enjoying the view, on the beach, snorkelling or kayaking. Food is also always delicious thanks to the chef (Awi). Because it’s just an hour away from where I live, my friends and I are always planning our next trip to Bigfin. Truely never gets boring even if we go 3 times a year??. Btw I’d recommend staying at least 2 nights to really soak it up and enjoy your time there.

2. Uncle Tan Wildlife Camp

Danau Girang Kampung Lokan, Kinabatangan River., 90200 Malaysia
Excellent
66%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 327 reviews

Uncle Tan Wildlife Camp

We run the Kinabatangan Wildlife Tour and Stay right in the heart of the Lower Kinabatangan area. Amongst adventure seekers and nature lovers who have visited Sandakan, the name "Uncle Tan" is near legendary. Over the past 20 years, thousands have come to Uncle Tan’s to experience the adventure, nature and wildlife in the lower Kinabatangan valley. Many of these visitors have become friends, and have returned for second, third,... visits.

A truely amazing experience!

Reviewed By Kieran1312

We had an amazing time visiting the rainforests of Borneo with uncle tan! The experience was great. We seen so many different animals,insects and plants.. of your looking for any sort of luxury then this isn’t for you, the accommodation is very basic but it makes the experience far better! It’s nice to escape every day life and social media while your surrounded by wildlife? our guide otto was superb and explained so much about the things we seen on our trip! He really does know his stuff. One thing I would add, it would be nice if there was binoculars/scope to use while on safari to look at birds etc. this would definitely help. Even if the company suggests to guests to bring along their own. Over all great trip and an experience we won’t forget!

3. Tampat Do Aman Jungle Camp

Marang Parang Tip of Borneo, Kudat Malaysia
Excellent
71%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
5%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 381 reviews

Tampat Do Aman Jungle Camp

Welcome friends. At the Tip of Borneo lies an Eco resort and jungle camp called Tampat Do Aman. In the local Rungus language this means "a place of friends".We are located by the only road that leads to this phenomenally beautiful coastline that stretches from the Tip of Borneo 10km to the south, incorporating eight of the best beaches Sabah has to offer. The area really is a jewel in the crown of Sabah. In Tampat Do Aman Tip of Borneo you will find : A Jungle camp (Traditional Rungus long House), A beach front restaurant and Bar (“Tip Top”) and an activities center. If you are a nature lover like us then there is lots to do here in Tip of Borneo. Our activities center offers bicycles and snorkeling gear for rent. There are different trekking and night tours happening and you can even take a course in Jungle Survival.

A fantastic place to experience and enjoy the beautiful nature of Borneo, from the jungle to the beach!

Reviewed By Lisa d

We had a fantastic time staying at Tampat Do Aman and would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys nature, does not expect luxury accommodation and who has some appreciation for sustainable living. The accommodation itself is very basic. You can choose from the traditional longhouse (double or bunk beds) or free-standing traditional sulaps or little huts (mattress on the floor), all of which are simple rooms with a mosquito net over the bed. Most guests really enjoy staying in these as it is part of the overall jungle experience - just note that you will have to take a short walk to reach the composting toilets and showers. If you prefer a little more comfort, then you should consider staying in one of the chalets which offer a private bathroom and outside relaxation area. These are also well suited for families. From the accommodation, you can enjoy the sunrise over the rice paddies, explore the nearby paths through the jungle which Tampat Do Aman have created and even climb up the sunrise tower for a beautiful view over the valley. But yes, as with the rest of Borneo, make sure that you have mosquito repellent! There is also a small cafe where you can enjoy breakfast and lunch at the camp. The accommodation is just less than 3km from the beach, but there is a free shuttle service throughout the day between the accommodation and the Tip Top Restuarant at the beach. Once you reach this beach, you might never want to leave as it is so beautiful! There are beach chairs to relax on, the water is absolutely perfect for swimming, you can rent a mask if you want to go snorkelling and you can even walk to the Tip of Borneo from here. The sunsets from the beach and restaurant are also fantastic! The restaurant has a good selection of both local and western dishes which are all really good and tasty! We particularly enjoyed the Mee Goreng Ayam (noodles), Swordfish and Springrolls. Even the pizza looked pretty good! Note that there isn't easy public transportation available in and around this area, so if you are planning on exploring the area further, then having your own transportation is preferable. If you just want to relax at the camp and the beach, then your own transportation is not necessary. Howard and his team know the area very well and will also often be able to take you to the nearby island so that you can spend the day exploring the area and other nearby beaches. It's really rather amazing to see the sustainable camp that Howard has created and his enthusiasm for both the wonder of nature here and also supporting the local community. We also really enjoyed connecting with other travellers here. If you understand what Tampat Do Aman is all about and you enjoy and appreciate the simplicity of nature, you will not be disappointed by what they have to offer. Just understand that this is not a luxury resort!

4. Lupa Masa Rainforest Camp

Poring, Ranau 89300 Malaysia
Excellent
67%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
3%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 133 reviews

Lupa Masa Rainforest Camp

Lupa Masa rainforest camp is a natural hideaway set amongst some of the oldest rainforest on Earth. 3 hours from Sabah state capital Kota Kinabalu it is a short walk from the Poring Hot Springs which is 30 mins off the main Kota Kinabalu - Sandakan highway.Made from local bamboo with power supplied by its own on site hydro-electric generator Lupa Masa is one of the greenest, in all senses, places to visit and stay in Borneo. It is surrounded on two sides by the national park and the third boundary is a crystal clear river and waterfall. Accomodation is in traditional style 'sulaps' in tents on foam mattress. Lupa Masa is a haven for birds, mammals and thousands of weird and wonderful insects including stunning butterflies and fire flies. Seasonally on-site there are blooms of the largest flower in the world - the Rafflesia. The camp offers rainforest trekking, bird watching, village visits or simply the opportunity to relax surrounded by nature.

Not for the faint-hearted

Reviewed By Yangsiyuan444

The jungle is a rough place. Lupa masa presents the jungle as it is, not as a rough approximate with scented soaps and lovely long hot showers followed by a buffet breakfast at 8. There was a keeled pit viper not thirty meters from my tent, then another not twice that distance. There are tiger leeches all over the place. My clothes smelled of blood and sweat, and I had to wash them in the river. But what a river! I'm going back in two weeks and I can't wait. For two meals a day, a dry tent, a chance to charge my batteries, and some friendly faces all within this gorgeous environment, Lupa Masa gets my five stars.

5. Kinabatangan Jungle Camp

Bilit 90000 Malaysia
Excellent
51%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
2%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 177 reviews

Kinabatangan Jungle Camp

The Kinabatangan Jungle Camp was established in the year 2004 in the lower Kinatangan Wildlife Sanctuary near the village of Bilit. The whole concept is simply truly jungle. Today, many repeat visitors especially birders still come to KJC to search for the very illusive Bornean Ground Cuckoo and others still try their luck to see the Clouded Leopard.

Overpriced €€€ avoid

Reviewed By max1403

We spent 2n & 3d there and really regret choosing this place. It first started with an airport pickup at 07:20 (recommended by the lodge) followed by a stop at the Sepilok Park to pick up other tourists and fill in the van. 1:30 hour on top of the trip to the camp! Of course not mentioned in communications had with the Sales & Marketing team. The place is very basic, no A/C, fans are completely useless, no hot water at all, rooms are not cleaned etc... The food is “ok” but you get the same served at every meal. Regarding the quantity, better not be starving. They really save on costs everywhere! Even renting boots for 10 ringgits, shame for a 180€ spent. Avoid these kind of corrupted place which doesn’t pay their employees and guides!

6. Tungog Rainforest Eco Camp

PPM 538 Elopura Kinabatangan, Sandakan 90200 Malaysia
Excellent
80%
Good
11%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
5%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 44 reviews

Tungog Rainforest Eco Camp

Life affirming experience with Cooperatively run conservation organisation run by local people doing incredible work

Reviewed By 641leilag

Before I share my gushing review I wanted to say this as we had such a phenomenal experience here; There are a few completely incorrect and frankly stupid reviews on here which I read before coming that make false claims about this incredible co-operatively run conservation charity. It's hard to believe that anyone of that mindset would come to such a remote location and have their eyes shut to what was around them. I'm pleased to say that all of the guests on the site when we were staying were deeply respectful and appreciated this incredible place for what it is. I'm pleased I ignored the irrelevant reviews on here , and I would urge you to as well. Here's our experience. We found the whole experience from the arrival very relaxing and dreamy; being introduced and welcomed by our guide immediately and going into the office to organise details of our stay, and having a delicious lunch at the basecamp. We were then taken by boat to the Tungog camp which was far better than anything we could have conceived of. The camp is incredibly well designed and a beautiful place to stay. It was also incredibly clean, and felt very rooted and in keeping with the natural environment around it. The large eating facility is really pleasant and it was a really nice way of bringing everyone staying on the camp together as we all shared our meals together. We found the individual cabins incredibly comfortable. They’re really well spaced out and designed in a traditional Malay structure. The noise of the rainforest is mind blowing all day, but particularly when you're lying in bed at night! You do have a real sense of being completely immersed in the rainforest. We found the staff onsite absolutely brilliant. They were incredibly knowledgeable, kind, deeply respectful and connected to their local landscape. We really liked how calm and measured the staff were about dangers and creatures, such as leeches. You were made to feel assured and safe, aware of the dangers, but not panicked. There was also a great degree of flexibility in the programme of the day. We never felt rushed, but equally there was always so much we could do. We specifically chose this organisation as it is a co-operative structure, and because they are almost exclusively run by local people. This really is unusual, and we felt utterly honoured to be shown around by people who have grown up in the area. So many of the touring operators are run by white westerners, and the locals are not involved and don't benefit. It's a very smart, wise, and sustainable model that is far reaching in the number of locals they involve. By involving local communities, they're creating an alternative income stream for them which doesn't rely on the palm oil industry. We were completely amazed at the quality, freshness, and amount of food that we were provided with. It was absolutely delicious, nutritious, and provided us with another way to connect to the local culture. You will not go hungry here! The range of activities available to you is really incredible. It was brilliant to be able to just walk from the camp around the site and see so much wildlife without going far at all. We also did night walks which are otherworldly, and a way of seeing wildlife you wouldn't necessarily see during the day, so we'd really recommend it. The boat trips were another way to see different wildlife and experience the landscape in a different way, such as crocodiles, kingfishers, and..orangutans! We were astounded at the amount of wildlife we saw in the days that we were there. We also really enjoyed tree planting. We felt like this was a really excellent way to make guests feel connected to the land, to feel like they had a stake in its future, and to be directly seeing and participating in your important tree planting work. They have a member of the team who plants trees full time along the river to provide a critical green belt for wildlife alongside the palm oil plantations. He collects seeds from the trees in the rainforest, and grows the seedlings in a nursery in the village which we visited. We found the way in which the organisation engages the whole villages surrounding the camp incredibly impressive. It made us feel very connected to the village and their lives, rather than just a passing tourist. We absolutely loved seeing traditional forms of dance and martial arts by local village folk, and visiting ancient burial sites. Useful information we weren't given before arriving but would have loved to know - Fresh drinking water is available at the camp at all times - You have wellies and walking boots available for hire as soon as you arrive - Mosquito nets are available in all lodges - There is soap available in your washing facility that contains limonella, a natural mosquito deterrent - Tea and coffee is available at the camp at all times I have sent all of this information over to Mescot, so they may subsequently include it in information they give to prospective guests. Final bit of advice, do NOT book through Sticky Rice Travel! We were quoted a price that was 10x more expensive than going directly through Mescot ourselves. We arranged our whole trip via email with them and it was really straightforward. By going through them as well, all of the funds are going directly to them and local people rather than a third party which isn't run by locals.

7. Hounon Ridge Farmstay & Camping

Kg Himbaan, Ranau 89308 Malaysia
Excellent
48%
Good
37%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
4%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 71 reviews

Hounon Ridge Farmstay & Camping

Great view and badly managed.

Reviewed By Steven_Teo

We booked the room ahead for a night. So we got the ground floor room with balcony facing the mountain. The room has no ventilation, so the door and windows have to be opened during the day. During the night, although outside was cold, the room was stuffy and warm because of no ventilation. The room has no bottled water, coffee, tea, or cups for you to make a drink. You have to buy from the canteen. There were cockroach nymphs in the toilet when the lights were out at night. If it was not the price and the great view, I would give it a lower rating. You need a vehicle to stay here.

8. 2win Hill Park

Jln Bukit Sakong, Semporna 91308 Malaysia
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 5 reviews

2win Hill Park

Great place !

Reviewed By Balqissszj

I love the view of 2Win Hill Park. I bought my whole family more than twice to this park because we really enjoyed it. It has so many facilities and the food is great too! ? All the staff are kind and friendly. The price is worth every penny because everything is served with a good product. For those who are photogenic, this place is perfect for you. Everything is beautiful and comfortable at the same time. Highly recommend for everyone to go to this place. Great place for quality time with friends and family ❤️

9. Pelumpung Melangkap View Campsite

Unnamed Road, Kota Belud 89150 Malaysia
Excellent
42%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
17%
Poor
8%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 12 reviews

Pelumpung Melangkap View Campsite

Crowded place

Reviewed By marshatn

Nipi Homestay: It located inside the campsite, the place was pleasant, clean and has huge deck at second floor which have a nice view of Polumpung campsite. The cleaner very helpful and recommended few interesting place nearby. (Bonus: private stairs access to the campsite) Management: Limited parking, no priority for inhouse guest. Ticketing staff lack of communication skill. Facility: We tried across the bridge to the other side, but some part of it was broken. Shared toilet a bit dirty, but the camping area was clean. There are few stalls selling handcrafts and foods. View: Unable see the clear view of Mount Kinabalu due to cloudy weather (out of luck!). By the way, the river view very nice from our deck. Overall: Homestay: 10/10 Facility: 7/10 Staff: 6.5/10 View: 7/10

10. D'idiama Campsite

Kg.pahu, Kiulu, Tuaran 89208 Malaysia
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

D'idiama Campsite

Camping & Picnic - rural-based tourism

Great Service

Reviewed By 961meim

Best place for a nature getaway with family and friends . They have clean washrooms As this place has no cafes, so must bring own food.. The family that runs this Campsites was very kind and the service was great

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