Camping experience at Song Muc Lake in the heart of Thanh Hoa's nature.

1. Overview of Song Muc Lake

Nestled amidst the wild space of Ben En National Park, Song Muc Lake is one of the most outstanding ecological destinations in Thanh Hoa province. The lake stretches across the area of two former districts, Nhu Thanh and Nhu Xuan, only about 45 km from the center of Thanh Hoa. Therefore, Song Muc Lake is very convenient for short trips or weekend picnics.

Song Muc Lake is located within the Ben En National Park area. (Source: Collected)

The lake was formed during the period 1977 - 1981 after the completion of the Ben May dam project, which blocked the Muc River to accumulate water. This process created a vast lake surface of over 2,300 hectares, with a capacity of over 187 million m³ of water. Since then, the lake has not only played an important role in regulating water sources and serving agricultural production but has also become the heart of Ben En National Park.

The most attractive point when traveling or camping at Song Muc Lake is the harmonious beauty between mountains, forests, and water. In the middle of the lake, over 21 islands, large and small, emerge like green jewels, creating a peaceful and majestic landscape. Familiar names such as Happiness Island (Hanh Phuc Island), Freedom Island (Tu Do Island), Flora Island (Thuc Vat Island), or Twin Mountains (Nui Doi) have become ideal stops for camping, kayaking, and exploring the primeval forest ecosystem.

Notably, Flora Island (Thuc Vat Island), the largest island with an area of over 54 hectares, is likened to a "natural laboratory" of Ben En. With its majestic yet tranquil beauty, Song Muc Lake is the perfect destination to find peace and fully experience the breath of nature in the Thanh region.

2. How to get to Song Muc Lake

2.1 From Thanh Hoa Center

The journey to Song Muc Lake from Thanh Hoa center is quite convenient, with a distance of about 45 km following National Highway 45 or National Highway 47 towards Nhu Thanh commune. The current road is paved and flat, with few turns, suitable for motorbikes, personal cars, or small tourist vehicles. The average travel time is about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Peaceful space at Song Muc Lake. (Source: Collected)

The road to Song Muc Lake has been invested in upgrading, cars can move close to the lake shore, convenient for carrying camping gear, picnic items, and group movement.

2.2 From Hanoi

For those departing from Hanoi, the distance to Song Muc Lake is about 170 km, suitable for a short trip or a weekend picnic. The popular route is the Hanoi - Ninh Binh expressway, then turn onto National Highway 45 or 47 to reach Ben En National Park. The total average travel time is 3.5 - 4 hours, depending on speed and vehicle type.

With the landscape of mountains and forests mixed with clear blue lakes along the way, the journey to Song Muc Lake is not just a trip but also an experience of admiring the natural beauty of Thanh Hoa region right on the travel route.

3. Ideal time for camping at Song Muc Lake

Thanks to being located in the temperate climate of Western Thanh Hoa, visitors can choose camping at Song Muc Lake all year round, with each season offering a unique experience. Depending on their preferences, visitors can choose the right time to fully enjoy the natural beauty here.

Camping Song Muc Lake is an experience that can be done all year round. (Source: Collected)

From March to August, the weather is warm, with light sunshine, the lake water is clear blue, and the trees are lush green, this is the most ideal season for camping, kayaking, or picnicking by the lake. The spacious area, with the calm lake surface reflecting the forest, creates a beautiful natural picture. This is also a suitable time for young groups or families to organize bonfires, watch the sunset, and enjoy BBQ amidst the lake forest.

Moving into September to November, Song Muc Lake possesses a romantic beauty, with misty fog and high water levels creating a rare poetic scene. Although the lakeside grass shrinks, it is compensated by the opportunity to experience the feeling of floating on a boat, exploring small islands, and taking artistic photos.

4. Camping Experience at Song Muc Lake

4.1 Camping amidst fresh nature

In the heart of Ben En National Park, camping at Song Muc Lake offers visitors a rare sense of peace and closeness. The space here is vast with many ideal camping areas, from flat lakeside areas shaded by trees, to spots deep in the forest with a wild, tranquil character. This is a perfect choice for adventurous young groups or those who want to temporarily escape the urban rhythm to immerse themselves in nature.

Camping amidst nature at Song Muc Lake. (Source: Collected)

For those who want a more comfortable experience, the Xuan Thai service camping area is a worthwhile suggestion. This area has car access directly to the site, equipped with clean restrooms, BBQ areas, tent rentals, tables, chairs, and kayaks. The space is arranged safely and airy, suitable for families with young children or tourists who wish to combine light relaxation during their Song Muc Lake camping trip.

4.2 Check-in at Botanical Island and beautiful islets

In the middle of the vast lake, Botanical Island stands out like a green jewel of Song Muc Lake . With an area of over 54 hectares, the island is covered by primeval forests providing ample shade, making it an ideal place for setting up tents, organizing team-building activities, or picnics and outdoor classes. From the island, visitors can gaze out at the calm lake surface, admiring the mountains reflected in the clear blue water.

Pristine natural space at Thuc Vat Island. (Source: Collected)

Besides Thuc Vat Island, Song Muc Lake also boasts many unique destinations such as Hanh Phuc Island, Tu Do Island, Linh Hon Island, and Nui Doi. Each island possesses a different beauty, changing with the weather and light of the day, offering countless impressive check-in photo opportunities. Renting a wooden boat or kayak to cruise around the lake is a wonderful way to fully enjoy the poetic beauty of camping at Song Muc Lake .

4.3 Boating, sightseeing, and exploring the Ben En ecosystem

One of the most beloved activities when camping at Song Muc Lake is rowing a kayak or wooden boat on the calm lake surface. The feeling of floating amidst the clear blue water, surrounded by rolling mountains and forests, brings visitors relaxation, freedom, and absolute harmony with nature. Early morning, when mist still lingers on the lake surface, is the most ideal time for sightseeing and feeling the tranquility of Ben En.

Boat services for tourists at Ho Song Muc Lake. (Source: Collected)

For adventure lovers, trekking around the lake or climbing mountains is a worthwhile experience. The ecosystem here is rich, with over 1,000 species of fauna and flora, many rare ancient trees, and natural caves. Every step of exploration is an opportunity to fully appreciate the grandeur of nature and understand more about the pristine beauty of camping at Ho Song Muc Lake, which is nicknamed the “Ha Long Bay on land of Thanh Hoa”.

5. Experience and notes when camping at Ho Song Muc Lake

Before starting the journey of camping at Ho Song Muc Lake , a little thoughtful preparation will make the trip more complete, comfortable, and safer amidst the wild space of the Ben En mountains and forests.

Bring tents, sleeping bags, flashlights, power banks, and mosquito repellent to ensure comfort throughout your stay.

Maintain environmental hygiene by preparing trash bags and collecting all waste cleanly before leaving.

Prepare a light jacket or blanket as the temperature often drops at night, especially in the early spring or late autumn months.

Supervise young children when playing near the lake, even though the water is calm, to avoid undesirable situations. Additionally, it is advisable to bring some basic medicines such as motion sickness medication, insect bite cream, and bandages for timely treatment when needed.

6. Suggested combined sightseeing

6.1 Pu Luong

Pu Luong is an ideal destination for those who love wild nature and the fresh air of the mountainous region. The reserve is famous for its terraced fields, villages hidden in the early morning mist, and streams flowing year-round. The journey to Pu Luong is also an opportunity for tourists to learn about the culture of the Thai and Muong ethnic groups.

Characteristic terraced rice field scenery in Pu Luong. (Source: Collected)

When you arrive here, you can join trekking through villages like Don village, Hieu village, admire the majestic Hieu waterfall, or stay overnight in rustic stilt house homestays amidst the lush green natural scenery. Combining camping at Song Muc lake with Pu Luong ecotourism will bring a complete experience, allowing you to relax by the clear blue lake and explore the majestic mountains and forests.

6.2 Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream

Located at the foot of Truong Sinh mountain, the Cam Luong Sacred Fish Stream is one of the most unique destinations in Thanh Hoa. The water here is so clear that every pebble can be seen, and what's special is that thousands of fish, large and small, swim naturally without anyone catching them. Local people believe that the school of fish are incarnations of deities, bringing peace and prosperity to the land.

When visiting, tourists can walk along the stream path, witness the magical scenery firsthand, and visit the temple located right on the mountainside. More than just an ecological tourist spot, the sacred fish stream also clearly reflects the spiritual beliefs and spiritual life of the mountainous residents of Thanh Hoa.

6.3 Sam Son Beach

After days of immersing yourself in the mountain and forest nature, Sam Son Beach will be an ideal stop to conclude the trip. Sam Son Beach is famous for its clear blue water, gentle waves, and kilometer-long stretch of fine sand. Here, tourists can immerse themselves in the cool water, enjoy fresh and delicious seafood, and experience the characteristic vibrant atmosphere of a famous tourist coastal area.

Sea square is a must-visit check-in spot in Sam Son. (Source: Collected)

Especially, Sam Son Sea Square is a must-visit spot. This is where festivals, cultural events, and outdoor art performances are frequently held. The vast, modern space, and sparkling lights at night make it a meeting point for tourists and locals alike. The combination of Song Muc Lake camping and a resort stay at Sam Son beach offers a balanced journey, both close to nature and enjoying the amenities of a modern coastal city.

Song Muc Lake camping offers an experience of immersing oneself in pristine nature in the heart of Thanh Hoa. The poetic scenery, diverse activities, and peaceful atmosphere will create a memorable holiday for all nature lovers. Plan your Song Muc Lake camping trip today to enjoy the feeling of camping amidst mountains and water and capture unforgettable moments.