Camping at Xạ Hương Lake – A Green Gem Hidden in Tam Đảo
Map Xa Huong lake
Xạ Hương Lake is like a raw emerald hidden in the heart of Tam Đảo — just like its name suggests, the lake still keeps its untouched natural beauty and has not yet been commercially developed. Camping at Xạ Hương Lake gives you one of the best chances to truly reconnect with nature. Let’s explore this charming little lake together with me.
Tam Đảo has gradually become a familiar weekend destination for young travelers and backpackers. However, not everyone knows about Xạ Hương Lake — a place with a dreamy and poetic beauty.
1. How to get to Xạ Hương Lake
Xạ Hương Lake is located in Quang Minh Commune, Tam Đảo District, Vĩnh Phúc Province. Originally, it was an artificial reservoir built to serve agricultural purposes. But thanks to its naturally stunning scenery, it has slowly become a favorite destination for young people seeking outdoor experiences.
Nestled between the Con Trâu Valley and layers of towering mountains, Xạ Hương Lake gives visitors a deep sense of peace and calm.
Getting there is actually quite simple, even for people with zero sense of direction.
If you travel by motorbike, head toward Nội Bài Airport, then continue along National Highway 2 to Vĩnh Yên City. From there, ride another 20 km and turn onto Highway 2B heading straight toward Tam Đảo. Once you reach the foot of the mountain pass, continue for around 2 km and you’ll arrive at the lake.
When you get there, you can simply stop to enjoy the scenery, take a few photos, and head back if you want. At the moment, there are still no tourist services or shops around the area for resting.
If you want to go deeper inside for camping, you can leave your motorbike at a local house (around 10,000 VND per bike) or park near the dam entrance.
After parking, there are two ways to reach the camping area:
By boat: You can hire fishing boats from local fishermen. The price is around 200,000 VND per person — honestly a bit expensive.
By walking: At the top of the dam there’s a concrete road. Walk to the end of it and you’ll see a locked iron gate 🥲. Just squeeze around the side and continue walking. Personally, I’d recommend walking for the full experience.
2. Which season is the best to visit Xạ Hương Lake?
Xạ Hương Lake has two main seasons: the high-water season and the dry season. Interestingly, regardless of the season, the lake water remains surprisingly clear and blue.
Since vehicles cannot enter deep into the camping area, it’s best to choose sunny weather and avoid rainy days for at least two days beforehand to make traveling easier.
Summer and autumn, when the sky is clear with white clouds, are considered the most beautiful times to visit. During winter mornings, mist floating over the lake creates an incredibly peaceful atmosphere.
3. What’s fun about camping at Xạ Hương Lake?
3.1 Camping by the lake
Even though it’s an artificial lake, Xạ Hương Lake has crystal-clear blue water that almost looks like the sea. During summer, the water becomes even clearer and cooler.
Because access is difficult, you should pack light camping gear. If you bring too much stuff, you may need to hire two boats.
Since the area hasn’t been developed for tourism yet, visitors need to find their own flat ground or shaded spots under trees for setting up tents and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
You’ll also need to hike quite far along the lakeside before reaching a large grassy area suitable for camping.
Camping at Xạ Hương Lake may be challenging, but the memories you get from the experience are unforgettable. For a while, you escape from the internet, phone signals, and everyday work pressure — leaving only freedom and peace. Hopefully, you’ll have the best possible experience there.
3.2 BBQ and grilled food
Maybe only camping can create this kind of eating experience.
A piece of grilled meat mixed with sunshine, wind, and even a little sand somehow tastes unbelievably good. Many people who struggle with sleep also find their rest improving after getting into camping.
That’s one of the wonderful gifts nature and camping can bring. Whenever people reconnect with nature, they naturally become healthier.
Whether it’s a proper BBQ or just a half-cooked instant noodle meal, the flavor somehow feels more special than luxurious everyday dishes.
3.3 Boating
Local fishermen often use their fishing boats to transport campers into the lake area.
What could be more exciting than camping at Xạ Hương Lake while also exploring the vast lake by boat?
Since there are no tourism services here yet, bringing equipment is quite inconvenient. But if you get the chance to paddle around the lake, it’ll definitely become a memorable experience.
The boats here are actually fishing boats adapted for carrying visitors. Honestly, they can look a little intimidating, so don’t forget to ask for life jackets.
Boat rides cost around 200,000 VND per person, so if you’re traveling in a group, it’s better to negotiate the price beforehand.
When renting a boat, make sure to ask how the return trip will work and get the boat owner’s phone number. If there’s an emergency at night or something unexpected happens — like a snake bite — you’ll need to know whether support is available.
Traveling by boat can be inconvenient, so pay close attention to these details.
If you own a SUP board, bringing it along is actually a great idea. Inflate it near the entrance, load your gear onto it, and paddle directly to the campsite yourself.
3.4 Fishing
It’s hard to find another lake with such a large population of clean, naturally living fish.
With just a simple fishing rod and a little luck, you can enjoy a delicious grilled fish meal.
More importantly, fishing here gives you peaceful moments that help wash away the stress of busy daily life.
4. Important notes for camping at Xạ Hương Lake
Be prepared for a lot of walking, so wear sportswear and pack light but essential gear.
Bring insect repellent and enough drinking water.
Carry basic medical supplies in case of falls or snake bites.
Bring a power bank in case your phone battery runs out.
Always ask for a life jacket if traveling by boat.
If using boat services, discuss prices, schedules, and emergency support beforehand.
If camping overnight, pitch your tent on higher ground and bring rechargeable lights.
Take all trash home with you. Camp without leaving waste behind.
Hope you have the trip you’re looking for.
Email: chungdungvnn@gmail.com or hungtheit@gmail.com
Hello everyone,
I’m a local from Vietnam, currently running a small drink shop on the outskirts of Hanoi. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to travel across many regions and explore countless places throughout my country.
What I always look for are destinations that still preserve their natural beauty — places untouched by heavy tourism or commercialization. If you ask me about luxury resorts, I might not know much about them. But if you ask me where to find a raw, authentic spot close to where you are, I can probably point you to one right away.
If you need help with planning your trip, choosing destinations, finding accommodation, or figuring out transportation, feel free to message me. I don’t sell those services — I simply help based on my own experience and whatever you’re looking for.
And if my suggestions turn out useful, you can always buy me a coffee… or leave me a small tip if you’d like.
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