Camping in Kafue National Park | Riverside Campsite | McBrides Camp
One of Africa's Most Scenic Campsites
Situated at the spectacular confluence of the Kafue and Mushangashe Rivers, the McBrides Camp campsite offers visitors the opportunity to experience one of Africa's last great wilderness areas in a truly authentic way. Surrounded by riverine forest, abundant birdlife and the ever-present sounds of the African bush, the campsite provides a peaceful retreat where guests can reconnect with nature.
Unlike crowded campsites elsewhere, camping at McBrides allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rhythms of the wilderness while enjoying easy access to the exceptional wildlife and safari experiences that make Kafue National Park so special.
Camping in the Heart of Kafue National Park
McBrides Camp offers four spacious riverside campsites capable of accommodating a variety of camping configurations, from rooftop tents and overland vehicles to traditional ground tents and family camping setups.
Guests have access to clean ablution facilities with hot showers and flushing toilets, as well as a dedicated washing area for pots, pans and cooking equipment. The campsites are positioned beneath mature trees that provide shade and create a comfortable environment throughout the day.
For travellers seeking a more adventurous safari experience, the campsite offers the perfect combination of comfort and wilderness while remaining closely connected to the facilities and hospitality of the main lodge.
Why Camp at McBrides?
Camping at McBrides is about more than simply pitching a tent. It is an opportunity to experience one of Africa's last great wilderness areas from the banks of the magnificent Kafue River.
Wake to the sounds of fish eagles calling across the water, enjoy your morning coffee while watching hippos returning to the river, and spend your days exploring one of Zambia's most wildlife-rich regions.
Elephants, bushbuck, monkeys, hippos and countless bird species are regularly seen around the campsite, creating an experience that feels genuinely connected to nature rather than separated from it.
Unlike many crowded safari destinations, the McBrides area remains wonderfully remote, offering guests the rare opportunity to enjoy wildlife, fishing and riverside relaxation without the crowds.
Wildlife Around Camp
One of the highlights of camping at McBrides is the wildlife that regularly visits the area. Hippos can often be heard grazing near the riverbanks at night, elephants frequently pass through the surrounding bush and a remarkable variety of birds can be seen throughout the day.
The area is also home to lions, leopards, buffalo and numerous antelope species. Every day offers the possibility of a memorable wildlife encounter, often without another vehicle or visitor in sight.
Activities for Campers
Camping guests are welcome to book activities through the main lodge, allowing them to enjoy the full McBrides safari experience. Guided walking safaris provide an intimate connection with the wilderness, while boat safaris on the Kafue River offer unique wildlife viewing opportunities from the water.
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy productive fishing along the river, while birdwatchers and photographers will find endless opportunities to explore the rich diversity of the area. Traditional game drives complete the safari experience, allowing guests to discover the remarkable wildlife of Kafue National Park.
Everything You Need for a Comfortable Stay
The campsite has been designed to offer a comfortable and practical wilderness experience. Guests have access to hot showers, modern ablution facilities and a dedicated washing-up area for pots, pans and cooking equipment.
Firewood is available for purchase from the lodge. To protect the natural environment of Kafue National Park, collecting firewood within the park is strictly prohibited.
For the safety of both guests and wildlife, campers may leave camp from 06:00 and are required to return by 18:00. As part of the authentic wilderness experience, music and amplified sound are not permitted within the campsite.
Evenings Around the Campfire
As the sun sets over the Kafue River, the atmosphere at McBrides Camp becomes truly magical. Guests gather around the campfire to share stories from the day's adventures while listening to the sounds of the African night.
Under a canopy of stars and surrounded by wilderness, these evenings capture the essence of an authentic African safari and create memories that last long after the journey home.
Book Your Kafue River Campsite
Whether you are travelling through Zambia in an overland vehicle, exploring with a rooftop tent, or simply seeking a peaceful riverside camping experience, McBrides Camp offers one of the most scenic and comfortable campsites in Kafue National Park.
Enjoy hot showers, excellent wildlife viewing, fishing opportunities, boat safaris and the unique experience of camping on the banks of the magnificent Kafue River.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many campsites are available at McBrides Camp?
A: McBrides Camp offers four spacious riverside campsites suitable for a variety of camping configurations including rooftop tents, overland vehicles and traditional ground tents.
Q: Are hot showers and ablution facilities available?
A: Yes. Guests have access to clean ablution facilities with hot showers, flushing toilets and a dedicated washing area for pots, pans and cooking equipment.
Q: Can campers participate in safari activities?
A: Yes. Campers can book guided walking safaris, boat safaris, fishing trips, birdwatching excursions and game drives through the main lodge.
Q: Is firewood available?
A: Yes. Firewood is available for purchase at the lodge. Collecting firewood within Kafue National Park is strictly prohibited.
Q: What are the campsite rules?
A: Campers may leave camp from 06:00 and must return by 18:00. To preserve the wilderness experience for all guests, music and amplified sound are not permitted within the campsite.
Q: What wildlife can be seen around the campsite?
A: Guests regularly encounter hippos, elephants, bushbuck, monkeys and a wide variety of birdlife, while lions, leopards, buffalo and numerous antelope species inhabit the surrounding area.