Tapak Camping Tasoh, Perlis — Lakeside Camping at Malaysia's Smallest State

The Vibe

Perlis is easy to overlook. Most people drive through on the way to Thailand and don't think twice. But Tasoh — the reservoir up near Kangar — is one of those quiet gems that not many people outside the state even know about. Tapak Camping Tasoh sits right by the lake, open and flat, with big sky views that you just don't get at forest campsites. It's calm here. Unhurried. Very kampung feel.

The crowd here is mostly locals — families from Kangar, fishermen, and the occasional curious camper from Kedah or Penang who's heard about the place through word of mouth. Someone compared the scenery to Wanaka in New Zealand, which is a big call, but honestly you can see why — there's one lone tree by the water that photographs beautifully, and on a clear day the reflection off the lake is something else. Not your typical jungle campsite vibes. This one's about open space, water, and quiet.

Worth flagging — this is a contribution-based campsite, meaning there's no fixed fee. You pay what you want, or what feels right. Very honesty system. That also means facilities are minimal, so go in with realistic expectations.

Getting There

The campsite is in Kampung Bukit Manek, about 02400 Kangar, Perlis. From Kangar town, head towards the Tasoh Lake area — just plug "Tapak Camping Tasoh" into Google Maps and it should get you there without too much drama. The road going in isn't fancy, but it's accessible by normal car — no 4WD needed. One thing to note: the entrance to the best spot can look like a dead end to newcomers. Don't turn back. Keep going and you'll hit the proper open area by the water. A few reviewers mentioned this specifically — people miss it and assume the road stops there.

What to Expect

This is an open lakeside campsite. No jungle canopy, no shade trees overhead (except that famous lone tree by the water). The terrain is flat and grassy, which makes pitching a tent straightforward enough. But flat and open also means sun. Full, brutal, Perlis sun. If you're camping here on a hot afternoon, it's going to hit you. A few reviewers put it simply — "open place, hot." Yeah, it really is. Plan your arrival for late afternoon if you can.

There's space for barbecue and fishing by the water, and that secluded end of the site is where people tend to gather for both. Crowd-wise, it's quiet on regular weekdays. Weekends and school holidays will bring out the local families. During the fasting month, expect a different crowd — people come for the scenery and photos but activities naturally slow down.

This campsite suits beginners and families looking for a relaxed, low-key experience. It's not a place for hardcore campers chasing waterfalls or jungle trails. It's a "sit by the lake, cook something nice, watch the sunset" kind of place. If you're bringing kids, the flat open ground and calm lake setting works well. For an overnight setup with the family, the Pavilion Family Camp Bundle (4 pax) covers everything you need without having to think too hard about what to pack.

Facilities

Toilets

Limited. At least one reviewer confirmed there are some on site, but don't expect much. Bring your own essentials and lower your expectations going in.

Shade

Minimal. The site is very open. That iconic lone tree by the water is about all you get. Bring your own shelter or canopy.

Fishing Spot

Available by the water. Locals fish here regularly. Bring your own gear.

BBQ Area

Yes — especially at the far end of the site. That's where the action is.

Parking

Available. You can park near the campsite area without much issue, at least during off-peak times.

Electricity

None mentioned. Bring a powerbank or a lantern. The TAHAN Luminate Multifunction Lantern is rechargeable and doubles as a powerbank — genuinely useful at a place like this where there's zero infrastructure.

Boat Ride

Apparently available — one reviewer mentioned it but skipped it due to the heat. Worth checking with locals on site if it's still operating.

What Campers Are Saying

One camper who visited during Ramadan said the views made it worth the drive even without the usual activities — they came, took photos, and soaked in the calm. Sometimes that's enough.

Another visitor pointed out something useful: there's a spot at the far end of the site that most people overlook because it genuinely looks like a dead end. That's where the best views are. It's where people do BBQ, fish, and hang out away from the main road. If you just pull into the first open area and set up there, you're missing the best part of the campsite.

The Wanaka tree comparison came from a camper who clearly had some travel references. Fair or not, that single photogenic tree by the water is legitimately a highlight. People come specifically to shoot it.

On the practical side, one camper flagged that toilets are limited. It's a contribution-based spot, so the upkeep reflects that. Another said the place feels hot and open — which is accurate — but that the lake view balances it out when you're just sitting there in the evening doing nothing.

TAHAN Tip

Don't set up in the first open spot you see. Drive all the way to the far end — that's where the lake is closest, the tree is, and the barbecue crowd sets up. It looks like a dead end but it's the actual heart of the campsite. Also, Perlis heat is real. Arrive by 5pm, not noon. The evenings here are genuinely beautiful — worth waiting the day out before you set up camp.

Mike has been camping across Malaysia for over 10 years — from jungle treks in Taman Negara to beach camps in Perhentian. He writes about it so you don't have to find out the hard way. Follow along on TAHAN Outdoor's blog for honest campsite reviews, every week.

You Might Also Like

• Taman Eko-Rimba Bukit Ayer — another Perlis gem worth exploring if you're already up in the north.
• Ulu Legong Campsite — just across the border in Kedah, a more forested alternative if you want shade with your northern escape.