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Escape the City: 5 Stunning Camping Spots Near Pune

Ever feel like the city noise is just a little too much? The constant traffic, the never-ending rush—it can get exhausting. If you’re in Pune and looking for a quick escape into nature, you’re in luck. There are some incredible camping spots just a short drive away, perfect for a weekend getaway.
From lakeside retreats to quiet hilltop camps, here are five stunning camping spots near Pune where you can unwind, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the outdoors.
1. Pawna Lake – The Classic Lakeside Retreat
Pawna Lake is probably the most well-known camping spot near Pune, and for a good reason. Imagine sitting by a peaceful lake, watching the sun go down while the sky turns shades of pink and orange. Sounds perfect, right?
Located around 65 km from Pune, Pawna offers a great mix of relaxation and adventure. You can try kayaking, enjoy a bonfire under the stars, or just sit by the water and let the breeze do its magic. There are plenty of camping sites here that provide tents, food, and even barbecue options, so you don’t have to worry about the logistics.
Distance from Pune: 65 km
Best time to visit: October to May
Activities: Kayaking, bonfire, stargazing
2. Bhandardara – A Scenic Getaway Amidst Waterfalls
If you’re in the mood for something extra scenic, Bhandardara should be on your list. It’s about 160 km from Pune, and the drive itself is a treat. Surrounded by lush green hills, waterfalls, and the beautiful Arthur Lake, this place is pure bliss.
Camping by the lake is peaceful, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a short trek to Maharashtra’s highest peak—Kalsubai. If you’re here for a longer trip, don’t miss Randha Falls.
Distance from Pune: 160 km
Best time to visit: October to March
Activities: Boating, hiking, waterfall visits
3. Rajmachi – Adventure with a Historical Twist
Love trekking? Rajmachi is the perfect blend of adventure and history. This camping spot, about 80 km from Pune, is known for its old fort and breathtaking valley views.
Getting here is an experience in itself. You’ll need to trek a bit to reach the campsite, but the views make it totally worth it. If you’re into photography, this is one of the best spots to capture the raw beauty of the Sahyadris.
Distance from Pune: 80 km
Best time to visit: October to May
Activities: Trekking, fort exploration, photography
4. Mulshi – A Peaceful Nature Retreat
Mulshi is for those who just want to unplug and relax. It’s only 50 km from Pune, making it one of the easiest camping getaways. Surrounded by green hills and a massive lake, it’s an ideal spot if you’re looking for some quiet time.
The best part? It’s not as crowded as Pawna or Lonavala, so if solitude is what you’re after, this is your place. Plus, if you’re into bird watching, you’ll love the variety of species you can spot here.
Distance from Pune: 50 km
Best time to visit: June to February
Activities: Bird watching, nature walks, photography
5. Raireshwar – Offbeat Camping with a View
If you’re up for an offbeat adventure, Raireshwar should be on your radar. At 80 km from Pune, this place offers a mix of history, spirituality, and stunning landscapes.
The highlight here is the Raireshwar Temple, where Shivaji Maharaj took his oath of Swarajya. But apart from that, the surrounding hills and open spaces make it a fantastic camping spot. Just be prepared for some steep roads if you’re driving up.
Distance from Pune: 80 km
Best time to visit: October to February
Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, cultural exploration
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Head Out
Check the weather. Summer is approaching, so expect warmer days and cooler nights. Pack light but carry essentials like caps, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Know the camping rules. Some places require permission for overnight stays, so make sure to check in advance.
Pack smart. A good tent, sleeping bag, mosquito repellent, and some warm clothing (for the evenings) are must-haves.
Respect nature. Leave no trace—whatever you bring in, take it back with you.
Why a Self-Drive Car Makes Your Camping Trip Better
What is the best way to reach these spots? A self-drive car from Selfspin. You get the freedom to stop where you want, take detours, and make the trip truly your own. Plus, some places (like Rajmachi) have rough roads, so choosing the right vehicle makes a difference.
Whether it’s a quick trip to Pawna or a scenic drive to Bhandardara, having your own set of wheels lets you travel at your own pace—no waiting for buses or dealing with the hassle of public transport.
Stress-Free Car Booking: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Booking a self-drive car should be simple and stress-free. At Selfspin, we make sure you get on the road quickly with an easy and hassle-free process. Follow these steps to book your self-drive rental car in just a few minutes:
Step 1: Visit Selfspin.com
Head over to Selfspin.com and browse through our wide range of self-drive cars available for rent. You’ll find options suited for city drives, weekend getaways, and adventure trips.
Step 2: Choose Your Car
Pick the car that fits your needs—whether it’s a compact car for a quick city ride or an SUV for off-road adventures. We provide detailed specifications to help you make the right choice.
Step 3: Select Date & Location
Enter your preferred rental dates and the pickup/drop-off location. With Selfspin’s self-drive rental car service, you can choose convenient locations across the city for a seamless experience.
Step 4: Provide Basic Details
Fill in your details, including a valid driving license and ID proof. We ensure a smooth verification process so you can get your car without unnecessary delays.
Step 5: Make the Payment
Choose from multiple secure payment options and confirm your booking. You’ll receive instant confirmation along with the car details and pickup instructions.
Step 6: Pick Up and Drive
On the day of your trip, simply collect your self-drive car, inspect it, and hit the road. No hidden fees, no paperwork hassles—just pure driving freedom.
Why Choose Selfspin?
No hidden charges – What you see is what you pay.
Flexible rental options – Hourly, daily, or long-term rentals.
Well-maintained cars – Regularly serviced and sanitized vehicles.
Skip the stress and book your self-drive rental car with Selfspin today for a hassle-free travel experience
Ready for Your Next Camping Adventure?
Escaping the city and heading into nature is one of the best ways to recharge, and with so many amazing camping spots near Pune, your next adventure is just a drive away. Whether you’re planning a peaceful weekend by Pawna Lake or an offbeat trek to Raireshwar, the journey is just as important as the destination.
And let’s be real—nothing beats the convenience of having your own ride. No waiting around for buses, no dealing with crowded transport—just you, the open road, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. That’s where Selfspin comes in. With an easy booking process and a range of self-drive cars, getting to your camping spot has never been simpler.
So, what’s stopping you? Pack your bags, book your self-drive rental car, and get ready for an unforgettable camping trip. Nature is calling—time to hit the road!