Time travel in your tent

Unwind at a cosy campsite on the banks of the Klip River, a mere stone’s throw from the point where three provinces meet. Then explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of this region

- Helenus Kruger

The Eastern Free State boasts captivating landscapes. Rolling green hills in the summer transform into a warm golden hue during winter, reminiscent of Tim Burton’s films with their bare willow branches. This part of the Free State can even experience snowfall.

Approximately 40 km east of Vrede, André and Ansie Podges’ Oppi Rooiplaas campsite nestles between the Klip River and a rocky hill. The Klip River forms the border between the Free State and Mpumalanga, and although the campsite is in Mpumalanga, the looks of its southern tip is pure Eastern Free State.

If you’re looking for a small, intimate getaway with no cellphone signal (there is spotty reception available about 800 m from the camp), Oppi Rooidam is the spot for you. Ansie never takes bookings for more than 20 people, and at most, four caravans. She will allow people who don’t know one another book at the same time, but ideally, friends or family should book out the entire camp. Even a single family can reserve the whole place. You’re far from any town lights, and on a moonless night, it’s pitch dark. The Milky Way and stars shine brightly overhead.

The campsite has three terraces – two for pitching tents and one right by the river for starting the day with morning coffee and rusks. The tranquillity is almost tangible.

The terraces are wide enough for your caravan and awning, and slope gently toward the river. Beneath your feet is a carpet of kikuyu grass, but unfortunately, there are no shade trees.