Hong Kong Campsites

How to Book a Campsite in 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide

Basics 8 min read

A complete walkthrough of Hong Kong's campsite booking systems—from the Twisk online portal to AFCD's first-come-first-served sites and upcoming fee-charging trials.

Understanding Hong Kong's Campsite Booking Landscape

Booking a campsite in Hong Kong is unlike booking accommodation in most other places in the world. The vast majority of the 40+ government campsites managed by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) operate on a first-come-first-served basis—there is no reservation system, no booking fee, and no guarantee of a spot. You simply arrive, find a patch of flat ground, and pitch your tent.

However, the landscape is gradually changing. Online booking systems, upcoming fee-charging trials, and the rise of private glamping operators mean that campers now have more options—and more complexity—than ever before. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to secure a campsite spot in 2026.

Part 1: Which Sites Need (or Allow) Booking?

Sites With No Booking System (Most AFCD Sites)

The overwhelming majority of AFCD-managed campsites do not have a booking system. This includes popular sites such as:

  • Long Ke Wan Campsite (Sai Kung)
  • Ham Tin Wan Campsite (Sai Kung)
  • Pui O Campsite (Lantau)
  • Nam Shan Campsite (Lantau)
  • Tung Ping Chau Campsite (Plover Cove)

For these sites, first-come-first-served is the rule. On public holiday weekends and during the October–March peak season, popular sites can fill up quickly—especially from Friday afternoon onwards.

Twisk Campsite: Hong Kong's Online-Bookable AFCD Site

The Twisk Campsite in Tai Lam Country Park is currently one of the very few AFCD sites with a dedicated online booking portal. Bookings are made through the official government camping website:

🌐 www.camping.gov.hk

Twisk is a well-maintained, car-accessible site, making it particularly popular with families and groups. Because it is bookable, it offers the rare comfort of a guaranteed spot.

Private and Glamping Sites

All private camping operators require advance booking through their own websites. Availability can be limited months in advance during the peak October–March season.

Part 2: How to Book Twisk Campsite Step by Step

The official booking portal is at https://www.camping.gov.hk/en/search.php. Here is a complete walkthrough:

Step 1: Browse Available Dates

  1. Navigate to www.camping.gov.hk and switch to English if needed
  2. Click "Search Available Campsites" or go directly to the search page
  3. Use the date picker to select your preferred camping night(s)
  4. The system will display available sites for those dates

Step 2: Select Your Campsite

  1. Review the available campsite options displayed on the search results page
  2. Click on Twisk Campsite (or your preferred available site) to view details
  3. Check the facility information: number of tent pitches, amenities, access information
  4. Click "Book Now" or "Reserve" to proceed

Step 3: Fill In Your Personal Details

  1. You will be prompted to log in or create a government account (using your Hong Kong ID or equivalent)
  2. Enter the required personal details: name, HKID number, contact number, email address
  3. Specify the number of persons in your group and the number of tents
  4. Review the booking summary carefully before proceeding

Step 4: Confirm Your Booking

  1. Read and accept the terms and conditions (these include rules about campfire use, litter, and maximum group sizes)
  2. Submit your booking
  3. You will receive a confirmation email with your booking reference number
  4. Print or screenshot your booking confirmation—you may be required to show it upon arrival

Step 5: On the Day of Arrival

  1. Arrive during the designated check-in period (check your confirmation for specific times)
  2. Have your booking confirmation and HKID ready
  3. Follow the on-site instructions regarding your allocated pitch

Part 3: AFCD Fee-Charging Trials

In response to overcrowding at popular campsites, the AFCD is planning to introduce nominal booking fees at selected sites, with trials set to begin on October 1, 2026 (National Day Golden Week). The goals of the trial include:

  • Managing demand at heavily used sites during peak periods
  • Funding maintenance of campsite facilities

What this means for campers:

  • A small fee (typically in the range of HK$10–HK$30 per person per night) is expected to apply at selected sites during the trial
  • Check the AFCD Country Parks website (www.afcd.gov.hk) for the latest list of sites included in the trial and fee structures once the trial begins

The trial details are still being finalized as of now. Always verify current arrangements before your trip, especially after October 1, 2026.

Part 4: First-Come-First-Served Sites — Tips for Securing a Spot

For the majority of AFCD sites with no booking system, timing and strategy are everything.

When to Arrive

  • Friday afternoon: For weekend camping, arrive by 2–3pm on Friday to secure the best pitches at popular sites like Ham Tin Wan and Long Ke Wan. Many Hongkongers leave work early on Fridays specifically for this reason
  • Early Saturday morning: If arriving on Saturday, be there by 8am for any chance of a spot at the most popular beach sites
  • Weekdays: Midweek visits are dramatically less crowded; most sites will have ample space even if you arrive at noon

Have Backup Options

Never commit to a single site without a backup plan. Before setting out:

  1. Identify 2–3 sites in the same general area
  2. Know the access routes and hiking times to each
  3. Check recent reports on hiking forums (e.g., HK Outdoor or local Facebook groups) to gauge how full a site is likely to be

Group Coordination

For large groups (10+ people), arrive in staggered waves. Send a small advance party ahead to secure space while the rest travel from the trailhead.

Peak Season and Public Holidays

During long public holiday weekends (especially Christmas, Lunar New Year, and Easter), even second-tier sites can fill to capacity. Consider:

  • Camping on Sunday night instead of Saturday (far fewer people)
  • Choosing more remote or less-publicised sites
  • Splitting large groups and meeting at a central location

Part 5: Booking Private Campsites

For private glamping operators, the booking process is straightforward:

  1. Find a site – Search online directories, social media, or word of mouth for private camping operators in your preferred area
  2. Check availability – Most operators have a real-time availability calendar on their website
  3. Select accommodation type – Options typically range from bare pitch (bring your own tent) to furnished bell tents, glamping pods, or A-frame cabins
  4. Complete the online form – Provide group size, dates, contact details, and any special requirements
  5. Pay the deposit or full amount – Most operators require a non-refundable deposit at booking
  6. Receive confirmation – Keep this for check-in

Tips for Private Bookings

  • Book 4–6 weeks ahead for weekend dates during October–March
  • Read the cancellation policy carefully before paying—policies vary widely
  • Check whether gear (sleeping bags, pillows, lanterns) is included or available for rental
  • Ask about parking if you are driving

Part 6: Cancellation Policies and Important Notes

AFCD Twisk Booking Cancellations

Cancellations for government-booked sites are subject to the terms stated on the camping.gov.hk portal. Check the specific cancellation window (typically 48–72 hours in advance) to avoid losing your spot without refund.

Private Site Cancellations

  • Deposits are typically non-refundable
  • Some operators offer credit notes for cancellations made 7 days or more in advance
  • Always purchase travel insurance if booking an expensive glamping package

General Important Notes

  • Maximum group sizes apply at most AFCD campsites—check before booking for large groups
  • No subletting or transferring of bookings at government sites
  • Check for closed sites – AFCD occasionally closes sites for maintenance or environmental management; check the AFCD website before travelling
  • Rainstorm and typhoon closures – If a Red or Black Rainstorm Warning or Typhoon Signal 3+ is in effect, campsites may be closed and campers are advised to leave immediately

Quick Reference

Site Type Booking Method Cost
Most AFCD sites No booking—first-come-first-served Free
Twisk Campsite camping.gov.hk Free
AFCD fee trial sites (from Oct 1, 2026) Online via AFCD portal Small nominal fee (planned)
Private glamping Operator's own website HK$200–HK$800+ per person

Whether you are racing to a beach campsite at first light on a Friday or clicking through the Twisk booking portal from your office chair, the reward at the end—a tent pitched under Hong Kong's stars—is always worth it.