Camping Near Pune – Lakeside Camping at Pawna Lake

Punekars have plenty of weekend options, but Pawna Lake stands out for camping:

• Close – about 55–60 km, so you can leave after lunch and still reach before check-in.
• Lakeside – most campsites sit right by the water with views of Tung and Tikona forts.
• Affordable – stays start from ₹999 per person including dinner and breakfast.
• Easy to plan – book online, pay an advance, and just show up.

Whether it is a birthday, a couples' getaway or a spontaneous plan with friends, Pawna Lake camping is the easiest overnight trip from Pune.

By car or bike

Take the old Mumbai–Pune highway towards Lonavala. Near Kamshet, turn off towards Pawna. The total distance is about 55–60 km and takes roughly 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic. The last stretch passes through villages, so drive carefully after dark.

By train

Take a local train from Pune towards Lonavala and get off at Kamshet or Lonavala. From the station, book a local cab or auto to your campsite.

Tips

• Leave Pune by 11 AM–12 noon to reach around the 2 PM check-in.
• Fill fuel before leaving the highway.
• Transport is not included in the package, so arrange your own vehicle.

For couples, Pawna is a favourite because it is close, quiet and genuinely romantic – a tent by the lake, a bonfire and dinner under the stars.

• Triangle Nest – a cosy A-frame tent at ₹1,499 per adult with breakfast, snacks, bonfire, music and live BBQ.
• Diamond House – an AC cottage at ₹2,999 per person (minimum 2 guests) with dinner, breakfast, BBQ, bonfire and music.

Read our Pawna Lake camping for couples guide for tips on choosing the right stay.

For a group of friends, the Classic Camp Tent at ₹999 per adult is unbeatable value – tent stay, dinner, snacks, tea/coffee, breakfast, bonfire, outdoor activities and parking are all included.

Add kayaking (around ₹150 per person) or a speed boat ride (around ₹250 per person) at camps that offer it. Bigger groups can request a guitar show on weekdays. See Pawna group camping for more.

• 11 AM – Leave Pune, grab a quick lunch on the highway.
• 2 PM – Check in at your Pawna campsite.
• 4–6 PM – Walk by the lake, play games, or go kayaking.
• 6:30 PM – Sunset with tea and snacks.
• 8 PM onwards – Bonfire, music, BBQ and dinner.
• Next morning – Sunrise, breakfast, and check out around 11 AM.
• On the way back – Stop at Lohagad fort, Bhaje caves or Karla caves.

For more sightseeing ideas, see things to do near Pawna Lake.

If it is your family's first camping trip, Pawna is a gentle introduction. You do not need to carry tents, sleeping bags or cooking gear – the campsite provides the stay, bedding and meals, so all you bring are clothes and personal items.

Why it works for families

• Short drive – kids do not get restless on a 1.5–2 hour trip.
• Kids pricing – children up to 5 years stay free, and kids aged 6–10 pay half the adult price at camps.
• Comfortable options – the Dome House (₹1,999 per adult) and Diamond House AC cottage (₹2,999 per person, minimum 2 guests) give parents and grandparents a proper bed.
• Plenty to see – Pawna dam, Lohagad fort and Bhaje caves are all within easy reach.

Tips for first-time campers from Pune

• Pack a warm layer even in October or March – evenings by the water cool down quickly.
• Carry a torch; campsites are lit, but paths to the washrooms and lakeshore can be dark.
• Reach before sunset so you can find the campsite easily – the last stretch is a village road.
• Tell the camp in advance about any dietary needs.
• Keep a small bag for the morning so check-out at around 11 AM is hassle-free.

Prefer more space and privacy for a large family? Look at Pawna Lake villas, or read the complete guide to Pawna Lake camping before you go.

October to February is the most popular time, with cool, clear nights perfect for stargazing. The monsoon (June to September) turns the whole route green, though some activities may be limited. March to May has hot afternoons but pleasant evenings by the lake.

Read our full guide on the best time to visit Pawna Lake.

Browse all campsites at Pawna Lake, check prices for your date, and book online with a 35% advance or the full amount. You can also Book on WhatsApp and pay via UPI QR. A confirmation email is sent once your payment is verified.

Kids up to 5 stay free, and kids aged 6–10 pay half the adult price at camps. Need help? WhatsApp +91 91852 57595.