South Korean campsites built with public funds close as camping boom fades

The 2026 Camping & Pet Scout Festival, organized by the Gangwon Province Pet Animal Association and supported by Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, will run from Sept. 4 to 6 at the World Scout Jamboree Training Center in Goseong-gun. About 1,500 participants are expected, with programs including agility shows, behavior counseling, puppy yoga, a campfire, and an off-leash zone. The event aims to promote healthy leisure culture and boost local tourism. Six days later, on Sept. 12, the Goseong DMZ Peaceman Aqua Duathlon will take place at Hwajinpo Beach, combining beach running and open-water swimming.

On August 23 at around 2:30 p.m., a car collided with a caravan in the Danchon Tunnel on the Seosan-Yeongdeok Expressway in Uiseong County, North Gyeongsang Province. No injuries were reported, but both vehicles were damaged and traffic was temporarily congested. Police are investigating the exact cause, with preliminary findings indicating the car struck the caravan, which had stopped in the second lane due to a breakdown.

Jirisan Auto Camping, located in Gurye County, South Jeolla Province, operates by reservation only. The site offers restrooms, showers, barbecue areas, and parking for about 20 vehicles. In summer, guests can swim in a nearby mountain stream. Rates vary by season; check the official website for details.

The 36th National Flower Hibiscus Festival will be held on the 29th at Gosan Cultural Park in Wanju County. The festival will feature free access to a motorhome camping site with 81 pitches and 8 caravans on the 28th and 29th. Visitors can receive 400 free hibiscus pots, view 68 varieties, and join activities like keychain making and a drawing contest.

South Korean city Yeongju is selling 12 old caravans from Yeongjuho camping site via Onbid platform. Bidding runs Aug 22-28, with 4- and 6-person models.

The 14th The Camping Show is being held from August 21 to 23 at EXCO in Daegu. Visitors are exploring the interiors of motorhomes, large tents, and various camping equipment.