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Kosi Bay Camping Sites (3rd Lake
Campsite & Bhanga Nek)
The Kosi Bay camping site is situated on the shores of the Kosi Bay 3rd Lake within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. If you are looking for camping at Kosi Bay that works as a practical fishing base and an easy-going family getaway, the Kosi Bay campsites around the 3rd Lake are a strong choice. The camp is known for electricity plug points, clean facilities and shady camping sites, which makes Kosi Bay camping comfortable without losing the natural feel of the area.
Fast Reservations Help
- Gate times: 06h00 to 18h00
- Check-in: 14h00 | Check-out: 10h00
- Bring supplies: No shop at the campsite
Send us your dates, number of people, and your preferred camping setup and we will confirm availability. No phone calls needed.
Kosi Bay Camping Overview
Kosi Bay camping is a classic northern KwaZulu-Natal experience: warm coastal weather, calm waters in the lakes, and easy access to fishing and snorkeling areas. The Kosi Bay 3rd Lake campsite is close to the camp gate, making arrivals and departures simple. Many visitors choose this Kosi Bay campsite because it balances basic convenience (power and ablutions) with a real outdoor feel.
- Location: Kosi Bay 3rd Lake, within iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- Best for: fishing trips, family camping holidays, birdwatching, exploring the Kosi Lakes
- Facilities: electricity plug points, clean facilities, shaded camping sites
- Supplies: bring everything you need; nearest town for supplies is Manguze
If you are searching for Kosi Bay accommodation but prefer a budget-friendly outdoor option, camping at Kosi Bay can be the best way to stay close to the water and maximize your time outdoors. This page also includes useful notes for nearby options such as Mabibi camping, Rocktail Bay camping and Black Rock camping sites.
Kosi Bay Camping Site Details
The Kosi Bay camping site has the facilities most campers need for a comfortable stay: electricity plug points, clean facilities and shady campsites. The camp works well for both weekend trips and longer family holidays, especially for visitors who want a calm base near the lakes.
Kosi Bay Camping - Important Information
Kosi Bay camp gate opening and closing times: 06h00 to 18h00
Kosi Bay camping site Office Hours:
Monday - Saturday 08h00 to 16h00
Sunday and Public Holidays 07h00 to 15h00
Distance and time from Gate to Kosi Bay Camping site: One minute
Check Out Time: 10h00
Check In Time: 14h00
Kosi Bay camping site - Facilities:
Community guided trails, boating, fishing and snorkeling.
Kosi Bay camping site - Shop:
Nil (Cold drinks, charcoal, bait and ice are available from
the camp office and firewood can be purchased from the
community at the camp entrance.)
Kosi Bay camping - Special Precautions:
Kosi Bay is in a low risk malaria area and special precautions
are necessary.
A 4 x 4 vehicle is recommended to get to the Kosi Mouth.
Please note that the Kosi Bay lakes are natural systems which are home to large populations of hippos and crocodiles. Fishermen need to be aware of these dangerous animals as they move around the lakes in boats.
Pets are not permitted into the Kosi Bay camping site.
Rates & Availability
Rates are not listed on this page. Send your dates and number of guests for options. Rates can change seasonally, so WhatsApp us your dates for the latest.
- Dates (arrival + departure)
- Number of people
- Camping style / requirements
- Budget range (optional)
Getting There (Kosi Bay 3rd Lake Campsite)
The Kosi Bay camping site is close to the camp gate and is quick to reach once inside the reserve. If you plan to visit Kosi Mouth, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
- Plan to arrive before gate closing time (18h00)
- Stock up in Manguze before heading to the campsite
- Bring enough drinking water, charcoal, and all supplies
Local Planning Notes (Practical & Safety-Minded)
Because Kosi Bay camping is a remote and natural destination, planning well makes a big difference. Bring enough supplies, arrive early, and keep food secured from monkeys. The lakes are home to hippos and crocodiles, so be cautious around the water—especially when boating or fishing.
For peak periods and school holidays, it helps to check availability early. WhatsApp is the fastest way to get clear confirmation without phone calls.
Contact Us For Nearby Camping Reservations
Contact us for:
- Black Rock Camping Sites
- Rocktail Bay Camping Site
- Mabibi Camping Site
- St Lucia Camping Sites
Kosi Bay Camping - Wildlife
If you really want to experience Kosi Bay, camping is the best way to do it. Being outdoors allows you to hear the night sounds of bushbabies, nightjars and owls, and the peaceful sound of the ocean all night long. Kosi Bay camping is popular for fishing, birdwatching and wildlife tours and safaris.
Kosi Bay is situated within a World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, and there is no shortage of wildlife, game viewing and birdwatching destinations in the areas surrounding Kosi Bay.
From Kosi Bay, it is a short drive to scenic places such as Lake Sibaya, Island Rock and Black Rock. The Mkuze Game Reserve, now part of the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, is only 80km away. The Thembe Elephant Park is also close by and a perfect destination for a day trip if the weather turns bad. The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is also close enough for a day trip. In all of the above mentioned parks, one can do safaris and tours and see some of Africa's best game parks, all while camping at Kosi Bay.
Vervet monkeys and Samango Monkeys are common in the Kosi Bay campsites, so always ensure that all food is secured. Your Kosi Bay campsite might also be visited by Bushbuck, mongooses and a variety of birds.
Kosi Bay camping is an unforgettable experience, and many people return year after year.
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Things to Do While Camping at Kosi Bay
When you base yourself at the Kosi Bay camping site you can mix relaxed lake days with exploring the wider iSimangaliso region. Camping at Kosi Bay gives easy access to fishing spots, calm water snorkeling, and short day trips to scenic points along the coast.
- Fishing (lake and coastal options)
- Snorkeling (conditions dependent)
- Birdwatching (excellent variety in the wetlands)
- Trails (guided community trails)
- Turtle Tours (in season)
- Safaris and Tours (day trips to nearby reserves)
Places to Visit While Camping at Kosi Bay
- Mkuze Game Reserve
- Thembe Elephant Park
- Kosi Mouth - Permit required
- Lake Sibaya
- Mabibi
- Black Rock - Permit required
- Island Rock
- Rocktail Bay
Book Kosi Bay Camping (3rd Lake)
Message us your dates, number of people, and preferred style (camping / chalet / self-catering). We will confirm availability with fast WhatsApp confirmation and clear next steps.
Kosi Bay is popular during peak season and school holidays, so it helps to check dates early.