Top 7 Beach & Pool Clubs in Malaysia, Malaysia

Reviewed By ThCy - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

After hearing so many good reviews about this re-branded park resort (TRK), we decided to pay a recce visit and finally book a camping spot here for a 3D2N stay (RM100 for x1 self-bring family sized tent). Sure enough, we had so much fun it didn't disappoint us! TRK is privately-managed and is located uphill above TERKOM, where the latter is mainly a camping site owned by forestry department. It can be quite easy to miss so if you're coming from KL, slow down when you drove past Kanching waterfall on the opposite and stay on far left upon reaching the off-road. If you see an Indian temple at the entrance, you're at the right place. We were informed that check-in can be made as early as 9.30am. Upon arrival, we learned that it's best to provide your ETA as the guard may not always be stationed at guard post (away to washroom, prayer etc.). We settled the balance payment at the counter (and sign the indemnity form) and off we went to unload our things from the car. Because no vehicles are allowed on the field (camping ground), we wanted to set our tent right behind the management office facing the man-made lake for the convenience of having water pipe nearby, but change our camping spot fronting the field instead when neighbouring campers told us that the initial spot we pick would flood if it rains. The field is large enough to occupy about 100 tents at one time, but most campers would choose to set up right next to the concrete 'pondok' hut (there's a few scattered around the area). Since we brought our flysheet and set up our own cooking area, we didn't really need the hut. Basically you can choose to camp anywhere you'd like, including a spot near the river stream further uphill where the site could be much cooler with ample shades from the forest canopy, although the monkeys might like your idea too for they can sneak up on your food and whatnot so... remember the indemnity form you will sign upon check-in. There's also a cafe nearby that has since re-opened and resort buildings for those who opt to stay in. But the toilets and other facility like washing area and surau are mainly located around the office downhill, which means the farther your campsite located from the office, that will also be the distance you need to walk to get to the toilet. At night, the field area is fairly well lit with one spotlight at a corner. In the evening, most family campers like us would have kids lingering around the middle of the field (that's their playground!) and it's generally safe to let them play on their own because we can check out on our kids back on the field every now and then while we're busy with cooking and other chores. It's also quite safe to walk around on your own at night as there are lights up around the office building, on the parking lot and the path to toilet (no torch light needed so long as you walk past the front of office building). But it can get really quiet for midnight toilet trips amidst the buzzing crickets and toads and sometimes, monkeys creating a ruckus in the forest can be heard from afar. The man-made lake is part of the main attraction of this place where you can do boating or kayaking at your own leisure. You can bring your kids to play in river streams uphill, cycling, ride on ATV (at a fee), pretty much any activity on land. It's a small price to pay for getting a piece of haven for yourself and family, a welcome respite that most city folks like us would appreciate to have. Top reason why I loved this place is the facility that lives up to its 'resort' title. There are toilet papers and hand soap, power-pressure shower and bins provided at every cubicle. There are plenty of bins located around the place, even on the field and is cleared on a daily basis. The staff will also provide you a garbage bag if you need one, how thoughtful! As of writing, some areas of TRK are going through upgrading works i.e. a wider access bridge, washroom to have more shower facility in place (which also explains why toilet cubicles would be flooded due to the renovation works nearby that clog up the drainage a bit). I'd hope the management will also consider adding more washing area for campers alike. There's also a rundown resort home on the way up to the river and more huts opposite the lake that looked beautiful but needed major clearing... though I do believe the place will see better days sooner than we thought when we make our return. And it's only 30 minutes away from KL city! What's not to love? ;)