A donation-based camping site with a beach! It’s rare Thailand’s government ever does anything right, so this is a little blessing. Only Haad Wanakorn (spelling?) has better management than this.
One major problem are the roads. The north road is full of pot-holes. The south road has a rusty bridge which will soon collapse (very very soon!!), and a few pot-holes. And one road, a future short-cut(?), which has a park sign next to it, isn’t even paved, just rocks. So... choose your poison.
Another problem is water. No water is provided at the park (??). Water machines are rare in Nam Pak Pran (i only found one a little beyond the circle road past Tesco). The other way, north, has a few. Otherwise you are supposed to buy water bottles and pollute the world? Maybe this is where they make all of their money...
It is best to camp on the designated campground in case of rain. The forest actually can have big puddles, mostly due to crazy rich Thai people driving their cars everywhere, creating mud holes and damaging natural grass. Also, the campground has less mosquitos (but more grassy bugs instead).
They let me camp for 3 days when i was stuck waiting for immigration due to some unforeseen godforsaken Thai holiday. Thank you!!! :) :)
During covid, they don’t check for vaccines, only temperatures. Haad Wanakorn requires...
Read moreThe Pran Buri Forest Park is an easy 20 minute drive south from Hua Hin. Unlike many parks in Thailand, there is no entrance fee for this park. It's probably appropriate because this park is quite small. About 1 square kilometer. This park was at one time cleared and turned into farmland but was later restored. It's a very easy hike because it's all done on well maintained elevated walkways and the total distance is about 1km. There's a good reason for these walkways. While the park is called a forest, it's really a swamp. Several things to note while walking through this park. Keep your eyes open. Rather than cut trees down to make way for the elevated walkway, the designers cut holes in the walkway for the trees to come through. It's very nice to see how much importance they give to the trees to allow them to do this. While walking, the path is mostly even but there are steps occasionally. These are marked with yellow paint to help you see them. There is a lookout about halfway through the park. It about three stories high and well worth the climb to look our over the park. There is a river that runs through the park. Because of a lack of tourists, there were no boats there when I went there, but there is a phone number on a sign that you can call to arrange a boat trip (I believe). See the pictures I'm posting to get...
Read morePranburi Forest Park is a peaceful, hidden spot, perfect for nature-loving tourists. Situated between the beach and mangrove groves, it’s a spacious camping area where you can stay for just 50 baht per night. Bring your own gear, as basic shelters and electrical outlets are available, making it suitable for campers, even those with caravans or tents on bikes.
The mangrove grove is accessible from the campsite via a scenic boardwalk that includes an observation tower. Only part of the route is open currently due to renovations, but a boat tour is available for 450-500 baht for up to six people. The park features a small refreshment stand with simple snacks, drinks, and coffee (alcohol and smoking are not allowed).
For the best experience, visit early—before the official 8:30 am opening—to enjoy the quiet and catch the park before it gets busy around mid-morning. This spot is also popular for wedding photography, adding to its charm. Pranburi Forest Park is a highly recommended escape for those seeking a serene,...
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