Camping on the Great Wall of China

Camping on the Great Wall is undoubtedly a coveted experience among outdoor enthusiasts. Spending a night on this ancient structure not only offers an intimate encounter with one of humanity’s greatest architectural marvels but also allows you to marvel at the star-studded sky and witness a spectacular sunrise, creating memories steeped in romance. So, how could you have a worry-free camping experience full of fun? Read the following guidance on the best Great Wall camping sites and safety precautions.
 Currently, camping directly on the Great Wall is not allowed. In developed and well-preserved sections such as Badaling, Mutianyu, Jinshanling, and Simatai, camping is strictly prohibited; staff will clear these areas during non-operating hours. Even in unmonitored sections of the Great Wall, camping remains forbidden. While some may attempt it riskily, this behavior is not encouraged. For one, camping generates a large amount of garbage, pollutes the environment and causes damage to cultural relics. For another, it poses safety hazards to travelers: the darkness of night and unpredictable weather conditions can lead to unexpected risks.

Nevertheless, travelers can still savor a Great Wall camping experience through alternative options. The professional campsites, situated at the foot of the Great Wall, not only deliver the essence of a Great Wall-adjacent stay but also guarantee safety, making them excellent choices.
 Jinshanling Great Wall Campsite stands out as the top pick for many camping enthusiasts, thanks to its unique allure of “waking up to a view of the Great Wall right outside your window.” The campsite lies within a 500-meter (500-yard) distance from the Great Wall; this proximity not only preserves the integrity of the Great Wall but also lets visitors immerse themselves in the Great Wall’s majestic night scenery. There’s no need to bring your own gear, as the campsite provides stargazing tents and premium RV camping spots.
 

Sunrise at the Jinshanling Great Wall

Every morning, the campsite organizes professional guides to lead tourists to climb the Jinshanling Great Wall, reaching the highest point before sunrise to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise over the Great Wall. As the first ray of sunlight spills over the mountain peaks and bathes the battlements, the golden glow intertwines with the winding Great Wall, creating picture-perfect moments at every turn. Nighttime, meanwhile, is ideal for stargazing: visitors can use the telescopes provided by the campsite to observe the Milky Way, and with a bit of luck, even catch a glimpse of a meteor streaking across the sky above the Great Wall.
 

What sets this campsite apart is its location at the intersection of Simatai Great Wall and Gubei Water Town, blending the dual experiences of “Great Wall + Ancient Water Town.” Here, visitors can marvel at the Great Wall’s grandeur while also soaking in the delicate charm of a water town. It’s an ideal option for travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences.
 

Simatai Great Wall at Night

 This campsite is located in Xizhazi Village at the foot of Jiankou, about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) away from Jiankou Great Wall. Surrounded by the unexplored natural Great Wall, mountains, and forests, the environment is primitive, quiet and sparsely populated. It is suitable for experienced camping enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor adventures and seek a “wild” experience. The starry sky tents are almost fully transparent, allowing you to lie down and gaze at the stars at night.
 1. These campsites are open from May to October every year.
2. Check the weather in advance. On a clear day, you have a higher chance of seeing the stars and the sunrise.
3. Do not take the risk of camping on the wild Great Wall. There may be wild animals such as wild boars and bears in the mountainous area.
4. Please take away your garbage after camping to protect the environment of the Great Wall.
 

 Further Reading:

Why should I visit the Great Wall of China? - Top 8 Reasons

Best Time to Visit Great Wall of China

How to Visit the Great Wall of China

How much does it cost to visit the Great Wall of China?

8 Guidelines for Travel to Great Wall of China in Winter

8 Unusual Things to Do at the Great Wall of China