Pak Chan Campsite, Kedah — Riverside Gem with Cool Clear Waters

The Vibe

Pak Chan Campsite sits in Kampung Ulu Riau, Karangan — that quiet corner of Kedah that most people drive past without stopping. The stream here is the real draw. One reviewer called it probably the best in Lubok Jong, and I believe it. Shady, clear water, with camping spots right by the river. Very kampung feel — you're not in some commercial resort. You're basically staying in someone's family land, which gives it a genuine, relaxed charm.

The owner — Pak Chan himself, along with his wife and daughter Husnah — is described as warm and helpful by those who've stayed here. Small family-run operation with a nice garden area near the house, multiple riverside spots, and a relaxed pace. Good for families who want something simple and close to nature, without the formality of a commercial resort.

Getting There

The address is Laman Sejuta Bintang, Kampung Ulu Riau, 09700 Karangan, Kedah. Karangan is between Sungai Petani and Kulim — easy enough to reach from the north. Plug the address into Google Maps and it should take you in without too much drama. Karangan is a small town, so once you're in the general area, just follow signage towards Kampung Ulu Riau.

The campsite runs alongside a river, so roads leading in might get narrow towards the end. No specific 4WD reports from reviewers, so a regular car should be fine. Call ahead on 016-461 6391 the day before your trip to confirm the road condition and confirm your booking details — a quick call keeps everything smooth.

What to Expect

About 4 to 5 riverside camping spots in total. Some are closer to Pak Chan's house, some further out. The stream is the highlight — cool, clear, and reportedly excellent for a dip. Flat enough ground for families to pitch up without much trouble. Dim lighting around the grounds at night, which keeps the atmosphere nice but means you'll want a decent light source.

For a peaceful stay, weekdays and non-peak periods offer the quietest riverside experience. Peak weekends tend to fill up fast — booking ahead and picking a riverside spot further from the house keeps things nicely relaxed.

Suited for beginners and families who want a simple riverside camp without heavy hiking involved. This is a drive-in, pitch-your-tent, swim-in-the-river kind of place. For a family trip, bringing a proper shelter like the TAHAN Pavillion Shelter Tent is a smart move here — you get a proper shaded communal area for meals and hangout time, separate from where you sleep, which works really well at open riverside spots like this.

Facilities

Toilets & Bathrooms

Present on site, located away from the camping grounds. Bring your own wet wipes and toilet paper to be fully prepared — handy to have on hand at any riverside campsite.

Water

Water points available at the campsite. No mineral water provided — confirmed by multiple reviews. Bring your own drinking water from town.

Electricity

Plug points available on site according to at least one reviewer. Handy, but the TAHAN Luminate Multifunction Lantern is still worth having — dim site lighting means you'll want your own proper light around the tent at night, and this one doubles as a powerbank too.

Chalets

Chalet accommodation is available, in addition to the camping spots. Book early — and confirm again closer to your date.

What Campers Are Saying

Campers consistently praise Pak Chan, his wife, and daughter Husnah for being friendly and helpful throughout their stay. The stream is the standout — one reviewer called it the best in Lubok Jong, and that's genuinely impressive given Lubok Jong's reputation for rivers. The riverside setting and relaxed vibe keep families coming back.

TAHAN Tip

Call Pak Chan on 016-461 6391 the day before your trip to reconfirm all the details — a quick call ensures smooth check-in and gives you a chance to ask about riverside spot availability. Aim for spots a bit further from the house for a quieter experience and great stream access. Bring your own drinking water and toiletries, and consider a shelter like the TAHAN Pavillion for a proper communal hangout area separate from your tent.

You Might Also Like

• Ulu Legong Campsite — another Kedah riverside camp worth checking out if you want something similar but further north.
• Sungai Sedim Recreational Park — Kedah's most well-known river camping spot with a proper forest feel and better facilities management.