[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za, 2012]

The Cederberg has several rock pools with silky water where you can cool off on a summer’s day. Picture by Fran Siebrits.

Being
mesmerised by the flames of the campfire under a star-filled sky is
indeed special. But the night becomes magical when you add the trickling
sound of a river or the reflection of the moon on a still dam.

Because
of the tranquillity of water and the many sporting opportunities it
provides, many campsite are situated near a dam, along a river or on the
coast. Here are our top sites at the water’s edge that Wild Card members can enjoy:

Algeria Campsite, Cederberg Nature Reserve
With
the mighty Cederberg as a backdrop, and the Rondegat River singing
sweet stream songs, camping along the water’s edge doesn’t get better
than this. The campsites have grass and are shady, a welcome contrast to
what lies beyond the site. This campsite is a good base for hiking, but
if you prefer to keep cool then there are enough crystal clear rock
pools for an entire week’s worth of relaxing.
Enquiries: 027 482 2403 (Algeria)

Msinsi Dams: Inanda Dam, Hazelmere Dam and Albert Falls
If
you enjoy water sports, then camping at one of Msinsi’s dams is where
you should be. Fishing, skiing, canoeing, and boating are favourite
activities along with game viewing, birding and hiking. These popular
reserves are close to Durban and Pietermaritzburg, and easily accessible
for a weekend camping trip. Views are incredible, and the nights
peaceful.
Bookings: 031-766 9946 (Inanda Dam), 032-533 2315 (Hazelmere Dam), 033-569 1202 (Albert Falls).

De Hoop and Richtersburg Campsites, Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
In
the Richtersveld section of the park you can camp at the edge of the
mighty Orange River and look across the water at Namibia. The harsh but
magical landscape of the Richtersveld mountains glows a golden
burnt-orange at sunset, best enjoyed from one of these secluded
campsites. There are 12 sites at each camp, with newly renovated
ablutions. Visitors must be self-sufficient as there are no other
facilities in the park.
Bookings: 012 428 9111, reservations@sanparks.org

Chelmsford Nature Reserve
Surrounding
the Ntshingwayo Dam, this reserve offers great outdoor activities and
camping at the water’s edge. The dam is the third largest in
KwaZulu-Natal, situated on the iNgagane River which runs through the
reserve. Chelmsford also hosts the largest population of oribi in South
Africa.
Bookings: 033 845 1000, bookings@kznwildlife.com


Midmar Dam
The
popular Midmar Dam, just outside Howick, is great for water
enthusiasts. Bicycles, windsurfers, canoes and yachts can be hired if
you don’t feel like dragging your equipment along. This large expanse of
fresh water and extensive meandering shoreline is great for a weekend
camping trip with the whole family.
Bookings: 033 845 1000, bookings@kznwildlife.com