The Knysna Forest is world famous for its magical beauty, dark and mystical retreats and giant Outeniqua yellowwoods, some of which are more than 1000-years old. Other prominent tree species include stinkwood and the pink-flowered Cape chestnut. It has achieved a mythical and permanent place in South African literature through the works of writer Dalene Matthee who found inspiration for numerous novels in the heart of the forest.
The name Knysna, a Khoi word, is most popularly thought to mean ‘place of ferns’, in reference to the dense forests. During the early parts of the 19th century, the Knysna forest was home to hundreds of elephants. This period however, was witness to a growing market for ivory and habitat transformation so that by 1890, the once large elephant population was virtually wiped out, leaving only four remnant populations. Today it is believed that only a few isolated individuals roam these dense forests. Today these forests offer endless walks and hiking trails including a wide selection of cycling routes.
Set amid the treetops of the Diepwalle Forest, the Diepwalle Forest Camp is an elevated camp that affords the visitor an opportunity to feel at one with the forest while providing that perfect balance of outdoor living and basic amenities which the ardent camper will love.
The Harkerville Treetop Chalet has 2 double rooms, each with its own bathroom and sleeps 4 in comfort. This magical hideaway is tucked away at the head of a wide valley situated in the Harkerville forest. From this vantage point you can bird watch, botanise, explore the walking trails close by or hop on your bike for an exhilarating cycle through the forest.
Discover rivers, waterfalls and a mass of flora amid giant indigenous trees. Bird watchers should keep a lookout for the famous Knysna turaco with its distinctive white-tipped crest.
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SANParks Knysna Lakes Section
SANParks Knysna Lakes Section
SANParks Knysna Lakes Section
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The name Knysna, a Khoi word, is most popularly thought to mean ‘place of ferns’, in reference to the dense forests. During the early parts of the 19th century, the Knysna forest was home to hundreds of elephants. This period however, was witness to a growing market for ivory and habitat transformation so that by 1890, the once large elephant population was virtually wiped out, leaving only four remnant populations. Today it is believed that only a few isolated individuals roam these dense forests. Today these forests offer endless walks and hiking trails including a wide selection of cycling routes.
Set amid the treetops of the Diepwalle Forest, the Diepwalle Forest Camp is an elevated camp that affords the visitor an opportunity to feel at one with the forest while providing that perfect balance of outdoor living and basic amenities which the ardent camper will love.
The Harkerville Treetop Chalet has 2 double rooms, each with its own bathroom and sleeps 4 in comfort. This magical hideaway is tucked away at the head of a wide valley situated in the Harkerville forest. From this vantage point you can bird watch, botanise, explore the walking trails close by or hop on your bike for an exhilarating cycle through the forest.
Discover rivers, waterfalls and a mass of flora amid giant indigenous trees. Bird watchers should keep a lookout for the famous Knysna turaco with its distinctive white-tipped crest.
The name Knysna, a Khoi word, is most popularly thought to mean ‘place of ferns’, in reference to the dense forests. During the early parts of the 19th century, the Knysna forest was home to hundreds of elephants. This period however, was witness to a growing market for ivory and habitat transformation so that by 1890, the once large elephant population was virtually wiped out, leaving only four remnant populations. Today it is believed that only a few isolated individuals roam these dense forests. Today these forests offer endless walks and hiking trails including a wide selection of cycling routes.
Set amid the treetops of the Diepwalle Forest, the Diepwalle Forest Camp is an elevated camp that affords the visitor an opportunity to feel at one with the forest while providing that perfect balance of outdoor living and basic amenities which the ardent camper will love.
The Harkerville Treetop Chalet has 2 double rooms, each with its own bathroom and sleeps 4 in comfort. This magical hideaway is tucked away at the head of a wide valley situated in the Harkerville forest. From this vantage point you can bird watch, botanise, explore the walking trails close by or hop on your bike for an exhilarating cycle through the forest.
Discover rivers, waterfalls and a mass of flora amid giant indigenous trees. Bird watchers should keep a lookout for the famous Knysna turaco with its distinctive white-tipped crest.
Features
Reviews (10)
10 guests' feedbackYou can't get better value for money! Nature surrounds you, the best basic facilities that a camp can offer you. Staff were very friendly and helpful. It was an unforgettable visit in the forest. Many exceptional hiking trails. We will definitely visit again!
Wonderful place to stay.
Beautiful and peaceful getaway nestled in the forest. Perfect for those wanting some peace and quiet away from the city.
We had a blissful beautiful stay.
See stars.
We traveled on motorbikes. After we were separated as my husband missed the turn in and I arrived alone at Diepwalle, Hilton and the wonderful lady in the office did everything they could to reassure me and made an effort to track him down. Everything went well. What an adventure!
Brilliant facilities and stunning surroundings.
We had a great time and slept for two nights, fortunately only had one small incident with a monkey. The beds were a bit wobbly and the mattresses were pretty shot.
Map
Rooms
Camping Diepwalle Power (CK4P)
Diepwalle Deck Tent (DT2)
More photos
Cancelling or downgrading of a reservation 45 days or less prior to, or on, arrival will result in cancellation fees according to a sliding scale, based on the total reservation cost, which varies between 50% and 100%.
Calendar
Tap any rate to see more detailed pricing.
Price Includes
Rates include a 1% community fund.
No bedding, towels or cutlery or crockery are provided.
Rates include a 1% community fund.
Check-in/check-out details
House rules
This camp does not accept cash.All visitors over 18 years old will be required to produce an identity document, passport or alternative valid identification e.g. driver’s licence card for scanning upon entering/exiting the Parks.
A standard daily conservation fee of R168 for foreign visitors, R84 for SADC nationals with a valid passport, and R42 for South African Citizens and Residents with ID, will be required on entry to the park.
Please note:
Check-in at the Diepwalle Forest Office before 16:00 daily. Late arrivals should pre-arrange late check-in with the office at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
Due to the geographical location of the Harkerville Treetop Chalet, clients will have to check-in with a valid proof of payment or confirmation letter at the Garden of Eden by no later than 17:00 to collect their keys.
Roller blades and skateboards are prohibited.
No bait, shells, driftwood or any other organism, living or dead, may be removed from the Garden Route National Park.
Pets are not allowed in a national park.
The use of drones inside (and over) our national parks is strictly prohibited.
For the camping decks:
Tents and mattresses are available to rent from the Diepwalle Forest Office.
Only tents are allowed, no motorhomes or roof-top tents.
A maximum of 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
As outdoor lighting in camps is limited, a torch/headlamp is required when walking outside at night.
Camping Diepwalle Power (CK4P)
More room/unit pictures
Description
The camping decks can each accommodate a tent and feature a braai facility and dining area, and have a 240V electric point. The decks have use of communal ablutions with hot showers. Campers have access to communal fridge, washing machine and tumble-dryer. Firewood is available for purchase at the Forest Office. Only tents are allowed, no motorhomes or roof-top tents. A maximum of 4 campers, 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
Rates
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a camping basis, and guests are required to bring along their own equipment. Rates include a 1% community fund.
House Rules
This camp does not accept cash.
All visitors over 18 years old will be required to produce an identity document, passport or alternative valid identification e.g. driver’s licence card for scanning upon entering/exiting the Parks.
A standard daily conservation fee of R168 for foreign visitors, R84 for SADC nationals with a valid passport, and R42 for South African Citizens and Residents with ID, will be required on entry to the park.
Please note:
Check-in at the Diepwalle Forest Office before 16:00 daily. Late arrivals should pre-arrange late check-in with the office at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
Due to the geographical location of the Harkerville Treetop Chalet, clients will have to check-in with a valid proof of payment or confirmation letter at the Garden of Eden by no later than 17:00 to collect their keys.
Roller blades and skateboards are prohibited.
No bait, shells, driftwood or any other organism, living or dead, may be removed from the Garden Route National Park.
Pets are not allowed in a national park.
The use of drones inside (and over) our national parks is strictly prohibited.
For the camping decks:
Tents and mattresses are available to rent from the Diepwalle Forest Office.
Only tents are allowed, no motorhomes or roof-top tents.
A maximum of 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
As outdoor lighting in camps is limited, a torch/headlamp is required when walking outside at night.
Cancellation policy
Cancelling or downgrading of a reservation 45 days or less prior to, or on, arrival will result in cancellation fees according to a sliding scale, based on the total reservation cost, which varies between 50% and 100%.
Description
The camping decks can each accommodate a tent and feature a braai facility and dining area, and have a 240V electric point. The decks have use of communal ablutions with hot showers. Campers have access to communal fridge, washing machine and tumble-dryer. Firewood is available for purchase at the Forest Office. Only tents are allowed, no motorhomes or roof-top tents. A maximum of 4 campers, 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
Diepwalle Deck Tent (DT2)
More room/unit pictures
Description
These structured permanent tents are set up on camping decks, and each contain 2 single beds with mattresses, 2 lockable kists, a bar fridge, and an LED light. No bedding, towels or cutlery or crockery are provided. The camping decks each feature a braai facility and dining area, and have a 240V electric point. The decks have use of communal ablutions with hot showers. Visitors have access to communal fridge, washing machine and tumble-dryer. Firewood is available for purchase at the Forest Office. A maximum of 2 visitors, 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a tented camp basis. No bedding, towels or cutlery or crockery are provided. Rates include a 1% community fund.
House Rules
This camp does not accept cash.
All visitors over 18 years old will be required to produce an identity document, passport or alternative valid identification e.g. driver’s licence card for scanning upon entering/exiting the Parks.
A standard daily conservation fee of R168 for foreign visitors, R84 for SADC nationals with a valid passport, and R42 for South African Citizens and Residents with ID, will be required on entry to the park.
Please note:
Check-in at the Diepwalle Forest Office before 16:00 daily. Late arrivals should pre-arrange late check-in with the office at least 24 hours prior to arrival.
Due to the geographical location of the Harkerville Treetop Chalet, clients will have to check-in with a valid proof of payment or confirmation letter at the Garden of Eden by no later than 17:00 to collect their keys.
Roller blades and skateboards are prohibited.
No bait, shells, driftwood or any other organism, living or dead, may be removed from the Garden Route National Park.
Pets are not allowed in a national park.
The use of drones inside (and over) our national parks is strictly prohibited.
For the camping decks:
Tents and mattresses are available to rent from the Diepwalle Forest Office.
Only tents are allowed, no motorhomes or roof-top tents.
A maximum of 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
As outdoor lighting in camps is limited, a torch/headlamp is required when walking outside at night.
Cancellation policy
Cancelling or downgrading of a reservation 45 days or less prior to, or on, arrival will result in cancellation fees according to a sliding scale, based on the total reservation cost, which varies between 50% and 100%.
Description
These structured permanent tents are set up on camping decks, and each contain 2 single beds with mattresses, 2 lockable kists, a bar fridge, and an LED light. No bedding, towels or cutlery or crockery are provided. The camping decks each feature a braai facility and dining area, and have a 240V electric point. The decks have use of communal ablutions with hot showers. Visitors have access to communal fridge, washing machine and tumble-dryer. Firewood is available for purchase at the Forest Office. A maximum of 2 visitors, 1 tent and 1 vehicle are permitted per deck. Extra vehicles are charged an additional fee per night.
The name Knysna, a Khoi word, is most popularly thought to mean ‘place of ferns’, in reference to the dense forests. During the early parts of the 19th century, the Knysna forest was home to hundreds of elephants. This period however, was witness to a growing market for ivory and habitat transformation so that by 1890, the once large elephant population was virtually wiped out, leaving only four remnant populations. Today it is believed that only a few isolated individuals roam these dense forests. Today these forests offer endless walks and hiking trails including a wide selection of cycling routes.
Set amid the treetops of the Diepwalle Forest, the Diepwalle Forest Camp is an elevated camp that affords the visitor an opportunity to feel at one with the forest while providing that perfect balance of outdoor living and basic amenities which the ardent camper will love.
The Harkerville Treetop Chalet has 2 double rooms, each with its own bathroom and sleeps 4 in comfort. This magical hideaway is tucked away at the head of a wide valley situated in the Harkerville forest. From this vantage point you can bird watch, botanise, explore the walking trails close by or hop on your bike for an exhilarating cycle through the forest.
Discover rivers, waterfalls and a mass of flora amid giant indigenous trees. Bird watchers should keep a lookout for the famous Knysna turaco with its distinctive white-tipped crest.