Camping Sites Puerto Rico
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Camping Sites Puerto Rico

CAMPING SITES PUERTO RICO – PART 2

The camping sites Puerto Rico are beautiful and you must know where to go before you arrive! This is Part 2 of our Camping information post. See Part 1 to get the information of booking and pre-planning your camping experience. Remember, you need at least 10 days beforehand to book! Camping In Puerto Rico – Part 1.

*Update 2016 Ways To Win The War Vs Mosquitos:

Puerto Rico. Zika virus and what to do if you travel? Just to alert you guys, it’s still way super safe and statiscically speaking the odds are in your favor that you will still have a great time Camping in Puerto Rico if you take some precautions.

Let me be straight up. Mosquitos do exist in Puerto Rico.

How to win? (I’m just doing this myself in our backyard and it’s done wonders on my daily battle vs. mosquitos)

Check out this great article. Citronella.

NORTH SHORE CAMPING

*Camuy Cave Park (National Parks): $5 per person to camp (park entrance separate). Check In 4:00PM, Check Out 1:00PM. Phone: 787-898-3100 or 787-898-3136. Facilities include bathrooms/showers/. Located at the well known Camuy Cave Park (See Adventure Day 4) and allowed for summer only (June 15-August 15). Directions: http://goo.gl/maps/ls6NY

*Rio Abajo State Forest (DRNA): $5 per person to camp. DRNA permit process. One of the best kept secrets to camp out in Puerto Rico resides in the Bosque Estatal de Rio Abajo in norther part of Utuado south of Arecibo. Not only can you camp out here, but you can explore caves, and hike here as well in this beautiful karst region.

The forest offers you unique opportunities to hike mountains, sperlunk in caves, natural swimming-holes, underground rivers, and crazy bird watching and wildlife. In fact, the Puerto Rican Parrot can be seen here as re- population efforts have been on the way for a few years now. There is a visitor area and a picnic area if you’re only coming for a few hours.

The 5,000 acre park sits near Highway 621 Km 4.4, and is a lush and tropical forest with rising altitudes between 700-1400 feet. The two best trails to hike are the Visitor’s Trail and Las Perdices Trail. There are other trails, but you run the risk of completely going into the unknown and poorly maintained paths. But if you’re up for the adventure…by all means, explore! There’s supposedly about 70 trails so if you spend a weekend camping out here we’d imagine you can discover some great spots. Both underground, and above ground this place is beautiful. Look for the bamboo forest.

Directions Rio Abajo:
Bosque Estatal De Río Abajo
Utuado, 00641, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/bulmd

*Cambalache State Forest (DRNA): $5 per person to camp. One of Puerto Rico’s most unique and charming state forests is located between the towns of Arecibo and Barcenoleta – named the Cambalache State Forest.

What makes Cambalache unique is that it provides some of the best mountain biking experiences and trails surrounded by untouched nature and shaded palm trees. The park itself does not offer rentals for bikes and you have to bring your own or decide to walk and “hike” the trails.

The trail is basically single track and one big loop that spans about 1,000 acres (about 4 miles), with other side trails intersecting within that circle. The topography of the course has challenging uphills and rewarding down-hills that more than pay off all the hard work. Definitely much funner to go downhill on a bike than hiking, but hiking does allow for some contemplative peace and quiet and zen moments. There is no one big “aha scenic vista” or anything of the sort, but rest assured that you will definitely immerse yourself in some of the best peace and quiet at this park.

Whatever you choose to do at Cambalache, figure to spend at least two to three hours here enjoying the day.

The park is free and does provide a few picnic areas to have a nice lunch or use their grills. Parking is located inside or outside the gates of the park.

The camping is probably one of the least sought after and thus less crowded. There are showers and basic facilities. Depends on what you want on your camping experience we guess, but sometimes it’s best to not hear people but the sounds of the natural world around us instead.

Directions Cambalache:
Bosque Estatal De Cambalache
Sabana Hoyos, Arecibo 00652, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/Jzpuv

*Cerro Gordo Beach (National Parks) $13 a night to camp. We almost feel like not writing about this place for those traveling to Puerto Rico because we love it so much and love everything it has to offer. However, since this book is called Puerto Rico Adventures Revealed, we’ll allow this little secret place of ours to shine so it can be shared.

Cerro Gordo Beach is located in Vega Alta near Dorado along this perfect oasis on the north shore. Why is it so special to us? Basically you can spend a few days here in relative peace and quite and yet have some minor adventures thrown in for good fun. The beach is located off of road PR-690 on KM 7.1.

First, you’ll notice that there’s a beautiful turquoise beach with a picturesque rock wall on the far east end of the beach which protects the heavy surf in order to make this beach swimmable. It’s usually very quiet here during the weekdays and with a manageable crowd during the weekends. It’s known as one of the beaches for snorkeling or scuba diving as some beginner’s classes also come here, but we also hear there’s rough currents along the rocks so use your common judgement. There is a roped off area for swimming and lifeguards to watch over since it is a balneario and government run.

This crescent shaped beach is one of the favorites of the locals in the area and it’s many palm trees on the soft sand provide enough shade for everyone. In terms of her facilities, there is more than enough parking, bathrooms, showers, and even gazebos to rent.

As a bonus, if you head uphill above the beach there is a wondrous camping area that provide barbecue grills, picnic tables, and even some electrical outlets. The cool thing about this camping area is that it provides great views (if you look for them), as well as a beautiful nearby hiking/mountain bike trail called Bosque De Breas. Just head towards the camping area and look for the signs. We once ran this entire length of the trail and it pays off every now and then with incredible views. Many uphills and downhills and roots and shade galore inside this trail, and we highly recommend it if you’re into this.

If you’re dizzy with the array of options you have on checking out a beach on the north shore of Puerto Rico, then let us make it easy for you. This is the place. It has it all. Camping, swimming, views, hiking, facilities, etc. You get the point.

Park Information:

Parking $3
Hours: WED-SUN 8:30AM-5:00PM except summers May-August open 7 days a week.
Camping: $13 a night. Check in at 2:00PM. Check out at 12:00PM.
Phone for more information: 787-883-2730
Phone for camping information: 787-883-2730 or 787-883-2515

Directions:
Balneario Cerro Gordo
00646
http://goo.gl/maps/w59pn

EAST SHORE CAMPING

*El Yunque Rainforest Camping: There’s some other information that’s relevant to camping that is not run by the “major 2 ” El Yunque Rainforest also offers very rustic camping that is run by the U.S. Forest Service (787-888-1810). You can get your permit the day of as long as you get there early enough, but you would have to get to the offices at the rainforest. The camping is not the greatest, and in our opinion El Yunque is best left for day trips and not to spend it overnight as there are basically no camping facilities.

Directions:
El Yunque National Forest
Río Grande 00745, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/JBMIs

*La Monserrate Beach (National Parks) – Luquillo. $10 a night to camp, $13 with water, $17 with water and light. Facilities include showers and bathrooms and security. Great beach camping in the beautiful beaches of Luquillo. Open Wednesday-Sunday. Phone: 787-889-5871.

Directions:
Camino Balneario
http://goo.gl/maps/cAZAv

*Seven Seas Beach (National Parks) – Fajardo. $10 a night to camp. One of our favorite beach places to camp out, although it can get quite crowded here. There are facilities and “outdoor showers” to use. You really can’t go wrong with this beautiful beach, and we especially enjoy the 25 minute hike to Playa Escondida (see Day 1 Adventure). Open Wednesday-Sunday. Phone: 787-863-8180.

Directions:
Parque Nacional Balneario Seven Seas
Carretera. 195, km. 4.8 ½, Puerto Rico 987, Fajardo, 00738, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/pJgBq

SOUTH SHORE CAMPING

*Lago Luchetti Wildlife Refuge – DRNA Permit Process. $4 a night. Basic camping facilities with showers, and restrooms and picnic tables (dock as well) along the south shore at Lake Luchetti – a beautiful lake near a mountain reservoir between Yauco and Ponce.

Directions:
Lake Luchetti Reserve
Maricao, 00606, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/nmmrg

*Susua Forest – DRNA Permit Process. $5 a night to camp. Located in the mountains of Yauco, camping is available with basic facilities with hoards of hiking trails to be had as well as a good spot for mountainbiking. Great for bird watching as well and some cabin camping available as well.

Directions:
Bosque Estatal De Susúa
Sabana Grande, 00637, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/9MTGu

*Aguire Forest – DRNA Permit Process. $5 a night to camp. South of the town of Guayama as you approach Bahia De Jobos (yet another bay on the south shore of Puerto Rico), is probably the most unknown forest in the entire island – Aguirre Forest Reserve.

Guayama is known as the city of the witches, but don’t let that scare you if you happen to be traveling on this side of the island. The Aguirre forest includes loads of mangroves to explore, a boardwalk to walk around, bird watching, and a great opportunity to see manatees up close and personal. There are currently no camping facilities at Aguirre, but it’s a good place to spend a few hours if you just want to hike around in nature and have good facilities. Bird watchers especially love this place.

To get here, follow Road 7710 south of Guayama along the coast until you see the signs. Further down the road are also some pretty cool sights along the Bahia de Jobos.

Directions:
Bosque Estatal De Aguirre
Guayama, 00784, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/rWW4d

*Punta Guilarte (National Parks). $10 a night to camp. Near the beaches of Arroyo on the southeast portion of the island of Puerto Rico. Basic camping facilities as well as vacation rentals. Phone: 787-839-3565. Open Wednesday-Sunday.

Directions:
Punta Guilarte
http://goo.gl/maps/ru56Q

CORDILLERA CENTRAL CAMPING

*Maricao State Forest (National Parks). You have the option of tent camping, or the Maricao State Forest offers cabins with full amenities for your convenience. To obtain the proper paperwork and permission to have these facilities you must contact 787-873-5652 or 787-873-5632. More than likely in Maricao they will only be able to answer in spanish, and if you can’t then call the San Juan offices at 787-622-5200 x128. What your asking for is the solicitation of camping forms, or the “solicitud de area de campar” for Maricao. There are only 12 scenic campsites available, each with BBQ pits and picnic tables and ample space to pitch a tent, or you can rent one of 24 small cabins that feature hot water, a refrigerator, and other amenities. The cost to camp out by tent is $15, and the cabins rent out between $65-$75 per night.

Check in to the facilities is between 12-4PM at the main vacation center, and they ask for a minimum of 2 night stay sometimes depending on the season. Make sure when you call ahead that you clear this up and ask for 1 day if possible since you are driving the length of the Panoramic Route and will and may in fact camp out in other state parks along the way (more on this later!). Checkout time the next day is 12:00PM.

The Maricao State Forest is actually the largest one in the island of Puerto Rico, and is by far one of the nicest ones. It makes for a great spot along the Panoramic Route to spend your a night or two here outdoors in the cool, clean mountain air. There’s an absolutely breathtaking observation point right that’s a quick 2 minute hike from the campsites. If you opted for cabin camping (separate facility from camping) there’s also nearby swimming pools, basketball courts, and other recreational activities. You can use the pool for an additional $2 per day (either form of camping) – just make sure you state that when you call and make your reservations for the date you’ll be here. It gets cold in the mountains, so keep that in mind. Spend your day relaxing and being outdoors camping in one of Puerto Rico’s best state forests along the Panoramic Route of Puerto Rico (La Ruta Panoramica)!

We also wanted to point out that the parks do allow for you to make a fire in their designated pits. Use extreme caution when starting the fires. Sometimes you may get lucky and find all the wood you need for the night in one spot, and yet others you would have to bring your own logs. Making a fire and keeping it going through the night is what camping is all about and half the fun! If it rains, remember you will have wet branches and it will be much harder to keep the fire going. Prepare beforehand to enjoy your nights camping!

Directions:
Maricao State Forest
http://goo.gl/maps/117CR

*Guilarte State Forest (DRNA). $20 a night to camp. Guilarte Forest is one of the most beautiful reserves in the Cordillera Central mountain range, and features dense tropical forests that feature many different types of species of trees.

The impressive mountain Guilarte is one of the three largest mountains on the island at about 3,900 feet. The Guilarte Forest is not as well known as Maricao or Toro Negro forest, but they do have cabins and a tent area available for rent to camp in an impressive eucalyptus tree forest. There is no electricity in the cabins, but there are beds and barbecue pits, etc. The charge is $20 per night and you must make reservations at least 10 days in advance with the DRNA. Information: 787-829-5767 / DRNA 787-724-3647.

There are numerous hiking trails and a great opportunity to bird watch, but if you’re driving along the Panoramic Route the Guilarte Forest makes for a great spot to have a picnic as the facilities are serene and amazing to enjoy the afternoon near the beautiful Lake Garzas. Lake Garzas also has a small pedestrian bridge that crosses a portion of the lake that makes for great pictures! The lake is also used for kayaking, and fishing and was man-made in 1941. There’s great views to be seen from these heights!The route to Guilarte Forest is PR-131 till it turns to PR-518 which is north of Lake Garzas.

Directions:
Monte Guilarte Forest
http://goo.gl/maps/DhkyS

*Toro Negro Forest Reserve (DRNA) $4 a night to camp.
While it’s not as nice in our opinion as the camping site from in Maricao State Forest, Toro Negro makes for a nice camping spot with cool things to do in and around the campsite. You can easily set up camp and set your things up (unfortunately taking gear to the campsite requires a bit of a walk since you just can’t drive your car up to your camping spot), and make plans to explore your surrounding areas.

Toro Negro Forest camp site is the highest elevation camp site on the island, although it doesn’t offer those “views” that you can see from Maricao. It does however provide you with the opportunity to hike up to these views and it just takes a bit more planning and time and effort. Because of it’s the highest camping sight in the island, Toro Negro is a popular spot to camp.

This camping sites Puerto Rico and offices are located on PR-143 on KM 32.4 and they will provide you information and orientate you with your surroundings. The highlights that surround you include a hike that’s about 15 minutes from the camp site that leads to a swimming pond with a tiny waterfall called “Charco Confesora” (Confession Pond), as well as El Bolo Trail which leads to another Tower Observation point but makes for a bit of an adventurous hike. Most of the time these trails have barely anybody traversing them so it makes for a great place to hike if you want to get away from it all and connect with nature.

El Bolo Trail starts off across the street from the DRNA office (the driveway of forest maintenance area) that is a pretty good uphill climb at times on the rocks but eventually leads you to a grassy trail. Follow the signs for “El Torre” (The Tower) to the observation tower that is mostly uphill in rocky terrain so come prepared! Once up there the tower provides yet another fantastic range of views of the Cordillera Central mountain region. The hike is about 2 miles, and overall 4 miles roundtrip so you most likely should do this the morning after you’ve camped out if you plan on doing this. Odds are it will be too late at night and after setting up camp to hike on this adventure, but it’s a great option for the morning before hitting the road and continuing on the Panoramic route of Puerto Rico.

Another trail adjacent to El Bolo Trail is called La Piscina Trail (The Pool Trail) which leads you to a river-fed swimming pool that’s recently been refurbished. The trail eventually leads back to the main road on PR-143 and back to the campsite area. The other option you have from the campsite either during the afternoon or early morning is to hike to Confession Pond (Charco Confesora). The trail is seen just beyond the campsites, and encounters some muddy paths for about 15 minutes before you eventually hear the streams of water and the cool blue pond that makes for a great morning swim. It’s a bit of a hike and slippery at times, but worth your effort. If not, the campsite offers a much smaller pond but the feeling is all the same! If you didn’t camp out, you can still hike to this pond via the Dona Petra trail.

The campsite features 6 camping shelters and a covered BBQ pit, water, as well as a spot to build your campfire. There are restrooms with showers (wear flip flops!), and has a nice little small water pond that you can hang out in and dip into. It’s pretty calm and serene here, with an open field as well for playing sports and hangin’ out. Because it is located on one of the highest points in the island, it does get cold here at night. Also, because many clouds congregate here you may encounter rains and cold winds so if you decide to camp here keep in mind that the sun won’t be shining full blast and it’s extremely likely you will be under rain. We advise if you camp here at this spot, keep that in mind and bring some dry branches and logs in order to have a warm fire at night because of the rains. Prepare beforehand!

Information:
Toro Negro Camping: DRNA 787-999-2200 x 5156. $4 to camp. Permit required 10 days before.

Directions:

near Ruta Panorámica, Bosque Estatal De Toro Negro, Villalba, Orocovis 00766, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/6ilFO

*Carite Forest (DRNA). Along the eastern portion of the Cordillera Central sights and near the towns of Guavate and Patillas is over 6,000 acres of a forest along the Ruta Panoramica and what is known as the Sierra De Cayey. Boasting great views with an elevation over 2,000 feet and offering options to experience nature at its finest, Carite Forest is a great stop to check out if you’re in the area along PR-184 or to spend your night camping if you did the Panoramic Route of Puerto Rico.

The forest is pretty much divided into two distinct areas: the north section closer to Guavate, and the more popular south section near Patillas.
The reason the south side of the Carite Forest is more popular is due to the fact that Charco Azul (Blue Swimming Hole) is located there as well as the fact that it lies right on the path of the Panoramic Route of Puerto Rico.

Blue Swimming Hole (Charco Azul) is a 10 minute hike to a 70X70 natural gem of great place to jump into the water and cool down (the water is super cold!). It’s pretty much only blue when the sun is shining down on it, and is especially enjoyed on weekends as it is a very popular place for local kids and families. You must bring proper water and/or hiking shoes to make this trek, but once here you’ll be able to enjoy this natural beauty.

We’ve emphasized this enough in other parts of this book but remember to not leave trash behind and pick up after yourselves. In fact, if you see garbage do a great deed for the day and at least fill a plastic bag and dump it in the proper garbage to help keep this area clean for others to enjoy.

While Charco Azul is the most popular “destination” of Carite Forest, there are many other more picturesque swimming holes that provide more privacy if you look around and wander around. Some adventures you just have to figure out for yourselves!

On another section, there is also a hidden gem called The 3 Streams or Survivor Falls near Route 184 KM 12 (south of La Ruta Panoramica and off the path) adjacent to a bar called “Los Tres Chorros.” Look for the small bridge next to tall grass and there you will find a faint foot trail that leads you here. The trail leads to a waterfall and three swimming ponds.

This is another natural playground in Puerto Rico where you will be able to cliff jump into the deep part of the pool, and swing off ropes. Make sure you see some of the local kids do it before so you know what to do!

Camping as mentioned is allowed in the Charco Azul portion of Carite Forest and is run by the DRNA as mentioned earlier. Permits are required for camping, but we don’t particularly like this camping area as it is crowded (especially on weekends) and on an area that is not exactly ideal for camping as many of the facilities are not in the best shape.

Directions:
near Puerto Rico 184, Patillas, 00723, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/B5hyO

WEST SHORE CAMPING

*Guajataca State Forest (DRNA). $5 a night to camp. The Guajataca Forest is yet another beautiful forest reserve located on the northwestern portion of the island and makes for a great outdoor place to explore, hike, camp, and even check out one of the island’s coolest caves – Cueva Del Viento (Cave of the Wind)

This specific forests boasts over 2,300 acres in the splendid karst region, so it’s elevation hovers between 500 and 1,000 feet and makes a neat observation point. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails to explore numbered in 14 different “trail points”, with the most popular being the Interpretative Trail and Trail #1 which you can easily do both in one day.

The camping is run by the DRNA and you can contact them for permits and they have basic camping facilities such as showers and restrooms. To get here, go south from PR-2 till you get to PR-446 which will lead you right into the forest. There’s also a nice tall wooden observation deck which makes for a peaceful and pleasant way to spend an afternoon observing the surrounding environment.

Guajataca Forest Reserve is also the perfect place to take an “off the beaten path” hike into yet another hidden cave in Puerto Rico – Cueva Del Viento.

The trailhead to Cueva Del Viento begins at the parking lot of the ranger station on PR-446 KM 9 and you’re looking for the signs that point to “Trail #1.” The trail is a bit over 2 miles long, so give yourselves a few hours to take your time to explore and enjoy the hike in the Guajataca Forest Reserve. Stay on trail #1 even when it meanders into other trails, and eventually you will get to the top of the steps to the cave’s entrance. Descend into the cave and enjoy the scenery. Obviously it’s a cave so you must remember to bring your flashlights or headlamps in order to check out all the formations that the cave forms. The cave itself is pretty impressive and makes for an awesome photo opportunity. Since Guajataca Forest Reserve is probably one of the least visited forests in the island, there’s a great chance you can have this place all to yourselves most of the time. Cueva Del Viento or Cave of the Wind provides you the perfect opportunity to just listen and feel the silence that’s always there.

Directions:
near Puerto Rico 446, Isabela, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/pe2ND

*Tres Hermanos National Park (National Parks). $10 or $17 to camp depending on if you want water and light. Open Wednesday – Sunday. Check in is at 3:00PM and checkout is at 12:00PM. Tres Hermanos is another balneario on the beach in the west shore of the island in the town of Anasco near Rincon. There are basic camping facilities and you are near the beach. Phone: 787-826-1610.

Directions:
near Playa, Añasco 00610, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/8Q46i

*Bamboo Tropical Treehouse “Glamping” (privately owned for rent). Located in the town of Rincon, this is a unique camping adventure. See Day 3 Adventure Section for details. http://www.tropical-treehouse.com/

Directions:
http://goo.gl/maps/0KYia

OFFSHORE ISLAND CAMPING

*Mona Island (DRNA). It is possible to camp on Mona Island out on the west coast, and you would have to get special clearance and permission from DRNA as well as information on the boat you will be using to get there. You would leave from Mayaguez, but would definitely need to pre plan with ample time this camping expedition. The place from what we hear is out of this world and the Galapagos of the Caribbean.
*Vieques Island – Sun Bay Beach (National Parks). $10 a night to camp. Camping in the beautiful offshore island of Vieques in a pristine beach with good camping facilities and showers. What more in life is there? Phone: 787-741-8198. Open Wednesday-Sunday. You would make arrangements in Fajardo to get to Vieques via ferry or you can also find places in San Juan that will fly you there.
*Flamenco Beach Camping in Culebra (See Below for Permit Process). One of the best beaches in the world offers camping right on this picturesque beach. Just hop on the ferry from Fajardo and here you are! The campsite is run by the Autoridad De Conservacion y Desarollo De Culebra (787-742-0700). and they don’t take reservations. Because they can fit over 400 tents, you can usually just walk up and reserve on the spot or the next morning. However, keep in mind there are super busy times for locals to camp there especially during Easter Week where it’s next to impossible to get a spot. We’re not even sure who wants to camp with over 400 people, but I guess people do. Call ahead and get some insight before you just show up.

“Sorry…out to live. Be back soon!” -Unknown

The Secrets Of Camping in Puerto Rico- Part 1 (The Process)
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The Secrets Of Camping in Puerto Rico- Part 1 (The Process)

Camping in Puerto Rico is a wondrous experience and there’s no other place in the world quite like camping in sandy beaches, tropical forests, mountain lakesides, underground rivers, and even some caves in this awesome island. You will need to have a car for sure to get to these places. We love camping and it is part of our lives and lifestyle. Since I moved to Puerto Rico it was pretty hard getting all of the necessary information in one place, so we hope this section of camping helps you plan your logistics if you plan on camping in the enchanted island.

Process to Reserve Camping sites

First and foremost and yes this will be in capital letters and bold typeface because it is important. IN ORDER TO CAMP IN PUERTO RICO, YOU MUST APPLY A MINIMUM OF 10 DAYS PRIOR TO YOUR ARRIVAL DATE. This is really important because you just can’t land in San Juan and head out and camp out anywhere because you will get fined very easily or worse- drive all day just to come to a campsite that has it’s gates locked and you have nowhere to go. In order to camp in Puerto Rico, you definitely have to preplan your trip and logistics.

There’s a process that’s involved, and yes, it’s a bit of an adventure in and of itself because the websites are all in spanish and more than likely the person you will call on the phone probably only speaks spanish. So keep this in mind and try not to get frustrated. Patience is the key, and isn’t that what camping teaches us anyways?

Here’s the breakdown as detailed as we can. Camping has been thoroughly mentioned in other sections throughout this book (North Shore Sights, East Shore, Adventure Days etc), but we’re going to list everything in one spot and by region to help you with logistics. If you see our Cordillera Central chapter of the book you will find the detailed logistics to have a 3/4 day trip along the mountains of Puerto Rico on a camping expedition along “La Ruta Panorámica” or Panoramic Route of Puerto Rico where you can spend a night each night camping in some of the best spots on the island.

If you’re truly adventurous and plan on camping on your own in areas that are not designated as “official” we truly believe you’re taking an unnecessary risk. Sure you can pull it off on one of the beautiful natural beaches (especially in the Northeast) and you can enjoy a great sunset and sunrise, however you’re also running the risk and prime area for thieves and you’re going to make very easy targets. We highly recommend doing it legally, and there are absolutely great facilities around the island in all sorts of landscapes and most importantly you will feel safe and secure in these areas.

Puerto Rico Agencies that run and maintain Campsites

Did we say you have to call ahead at least 10 days prior? We would say at least 20 just to ensure you get through on the phone and have enough time to submit your applications to obtain the permits. It’s not an easy process by far, and we certainly hope it improves in the future. Camping in Puerto Rico is basically divided into two groups that are run by the government.

The first group that runs campsites is the Department of Natural & Environmental Resources (DRNA). The DRNA basically runs 8 state forests camping locations as well as 3 wildlife refuges. We’ll list them all by region and logistics below. You would have to call ahead, and fill out the application and send back and then physically pick up the permits! (Note: Puerto Rico Revealed offers our clients this service for them before you get here.)

Their website is in spanish (as well as most of the people on the phone) and not the best source to help travelers as much as they do make the greatest of efforts to be of service. Regardless, the link will show you the forms you need to fill out after you go through the following process:

The Steps:

1. Call DRNA Information: Phone: 787-999-2200 x 5156 (Mon-Fri) Fax: 787-999-2303

2. Let them know the dates you are considering and which specific campsites. Usually you will have to leave this information without any confirmation for a couple of days.

3. DRNA looks at their system to ensure there is space. They contact you a day or two later. (Paitence guys, they will soon accept this process online and without you needing to physically go to their offices to pick up the permits).

4. After they confirm dates and campsites, you have 5 business days to physically give them the filled out application (link above), as well as give them the payment – in order to receive the official permit.

5. Go to their Physical Address to make it all happen: (For tourists and travelers that want to camp, we seriously encourage you to use our services).
Edificio Cruz A. Matos
Carr. #8838, KM 6.3 Sector El Cinco
Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico 00926
Directions:
Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Ambientales
Carr 8838, San Juan, 00927, Puerto Rico
http://goo.gl/maps/mtp3a

Postal Address (To Mail Back Forms)
Departamento De Recursos Naturales y Ambientales
P.O. Box 366147
San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936

Applications & Forms Links + DRNA Website:

Campsites in Puerto Rico

DRNA Campsites

-State Forests-

Aguirre Forest (Guayama)
Cambalache State Forest (Barcenoleta)
Carite State Forest (Patillas)
Guajataca State Forest (Quebradillas)
Monte Guilarte State Forest (Adjuntas)
Susua State Forest (Yauco)
Rio Abajo State Forest (Arecibo/Utuado)
Toro Negro Forest Reserve (Cordillera Central/Villalba)

-Wildlife Refuges-

Isla De Mona Wildlife Refuge (Mona Island)
Lago Luchetti Wildlife Refuge (Yauco/Ponce)
Reserva Natural Isla Caja De Muertos (Ponce)

National Parks of Puerto Rico

The second group that runs campsites (and vacation rentals!) is the National Parks of Puerto Rico. They offer 8 different camping areas mostly located along the coast and on beaches, as well as a couple of our favorites in the mountains. The National Parks of Puerto Rico has an easier process in the sense that each of the campsites administers their own permits, so you would have to call each one independently and show up the day you reserved. They also offer what they call “vacation centers” that feature cabins and really nice facilities and amenities if you don’t want to tent camp. See the end of this section for their information on vacation centers. We prefer tent camping, and here are the list of natural campsites the National Parks of Puerto Rico maintains.

National Parks of Puerto Rico Campsites (Compañía De Parques Nacionales)

La Monserrate (Luquillo / Beach)
Seven Seas Beach (Fajardo)
Sun Bay (Vieques Island / Beach)
Punta Guilarte (Arroyo / Beach)
Tres Hermanos National Park (Anasco / Beach)
Cerro Gordo Beach (Dorado)
Monte Del Estado (Maricao / Mountain)
Camuy Cave Park (Camuy / Mountain)

National Parks of Puerto Rico Information:
Phone: 787-622-5200 x 370 or 122 (Keep in mind you can call each of the above listed parks individually to reserve)
Website: http://www.parquesnacionalespr.com/

*Update 2016 Ways To Win The War Vs Mosquitos:

Let me be straight up. Mosquitos do exist in Puerto Rico.

How to win? (I’m just doing this myself in our backyard and it’s done wonders on my daily battle vs. mosquitos)

Check out this great article. Citronella.

SEE PART 2 – DETAILS OF ALL CAMPSITES INSIDE:

Please See Camping Part 2 Article!

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The Caves In Puerto Rico You Fear To Enter Hold The Treasures You Seek
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The Caves In Puerto Rico You Fear To Enter Hold The Treasures You Seek

Along the north shore of this tropical paradise there are a ton of options of beautiful gems to check out. You can go dizzy with what to choose to do if you only have 1 day in the region. The north shore sights are plenty and stores within it many treasures to check out. It is a wild and rugged landscape with gorgeous ocean views with a mixture of the mountainous karst country. It’s a combination of an urban setting (not as crowded as the Metro Area), but with the right touch of nature.

For the purposes of our Puerto Rico Adventures Revealed book, the north shore consists from the regions of Arecibo/Utuado and along the coasts of Dorado and finally ending in the Bayamon/Guaynabo region.

A helicopter tour operator once mentioned to us that the north shore with it’s rocky shores and rough waters with awe inspiring waves is the best scenic spot on the island. We’d have to agree. It’s two main rivers flow from the central mountains to the ocean on the Atlantic Side. Río Tanamá and Río Camuy near Utuado/Arecibo/Lares/Camuy/Hatillo region are it’s absolute stars with hundreds of awe inspiring caves to be explored.

Finding a beach to swim at is quite challenging, but rest assured there are unique natural spots to explore. Even the beaches that are not “swimmable” are still quite a sight to see when watching the forces of crazy waves crash upon the shoreline. It’s worth the drive to this area just to see the karst country. Puerto Rico is blessed in that there is an enormous beauty to it and is best exemplified in this region with green and white hills that appear to be rising and falling from the sea.

What is the karst country? Karst is the unusual land topography that makes the rock formations odd and interesting in this region. Karst is formed when water (rain) sinks into the limestone and erodes larger basins – which make “sinkholes” and create the huge underground cave system in the area you see today.

These erosions in the land leave only standing those peaks that have not yet fallen with the erosion of the limestone. These hills are called mogotes, and they are interesting if you look at them from the perspective that the highest peak you see today is certainly way below the level of the peaks that stood on the limestone ground many, many, many years ago. The Arecibo Observatory of course was built on one of these very sinkholes so you can get an idea of the size and scope of the “collapse.”

Imagine the peaks collapsing into giant sinkholes and you get the idea. It’s not the hill that’s collapsing but rather the holes in the limestone that have been changing over eons of time and thus you get this odd beauty of nature. When the “mountain falls upon itself” so to speak, the peak becomes the beginnings of the caves we can see today.

There’s literally only two other places on earth where the rock formations look like those of Puerto Rico. In the Dominican Republic and in the region now formerly known as Yugoslavia. So understand you’re in pristine creative lands when visiting!

You can feel a sense of scale in this region, specifically if you’re rock climbing in this area. Go to Adventures & Activities section for more specific information on where to rock climb in this majestic area.

One of the highlights not mentioned in our expansive “5 Day Adventure” section is the mystical Rio Camuy Caves located south of Arecibo and just north of the town of Lares. One of it’s well known caves is also known as “Cueva Clara” which translates to Clarity/Bright/Famous Cave. It surely was formed in stunning fashion and a must see, and it was made into a national park after it was documented in an expedition in the 1960’s that showed that this region had something unique in it’s vast cave system and underground river that marks this region. The public only gets to see 1 cave and a portion of the sinkhole. Those who travel and explore see more. See: “Adventures & Activities Section.”

“It is fatal to know too much at the outset: boredom comes as quickly to the traveler who knows his route as to the novelist who is over-certain of his plot. Travel into the unknown till the ends of the earth.”

-Paul Theroux

CAMUY CAVES PUERTO RICO

The town of Camuy itself is a throwback to the older days of a much more tranquil lifestyle. There are small one-way roads and stores that sell such things as incense and other assorted offerings for the saints of their beliefs.

However, most primordial and ancient of all is one of the largest cave systems in the world that runs through it. The Río (river) Camuy flows underground about 350 feet deep through miles of limestone from the Cordillera central region towards the Atlantic. The river itself is known as the third largest underground river in the world and it flows past and through caves, canyons, and of course the sinkholes in the region in the course of the past millions of years.

Over 2,000 caves have been discovered in the karst region, and one area was developed into a tourist attraction in 1986 after having been found by speleologists in the 1950’s who were lead to the site by local kids. To see the rest is a journey and rich experience onto itself. The caves in Puerto Rico are actually the best kept secret on the island, as there are many beautiful ones besides the one that was turned into a tourist park.

THE TOURIST PARK:

The Rio Camuy Cave Park is a sight to see even if you have to brace through the crowds. The park includes the views of three massive and enormous sinkholes and the one cave mentioned above- Cueva Clara.

It’s clear that upon first coming here that this had to have been considered a sacred place as surely the Taino Indians must have been here. In fact, that’s been the case as many artifacts have been found throughout the area and you can sense this might have even been one of their “cathedrals” so to speak.

Entrance for adults is $15, $10 for children under 12, and free for senior citizens over 75. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 8:00AM-3:30PM.

Trip Advisor Link

Park Information: If it rains the park usually closes so make sure to call ahead. Also closed on most major holidays. Allow yourself 1 to 2 hours to fully gain the whole experience. Phone number is: 787-898-3100.

PARKING / RESTAURANT ADVICE

When arriving at the parking gate, you’ll will more than likely encounter two people. The first person is of course the person who is taking your $3 to park. The second guy is the interesting character. The two times we’ve been to this park this has been the exact conversation:

Character: <Looking at you straight in the eye all intense> “You will be hungry afterwards.”

Me: “Um, yeah, I guess.”

Character: <Silence. Still maintaining eye contact and walking straight to your car window while leaning down> “Come to this restaurant afterwards.”

Me: “Um, yeah, I guess.”

Character: <Jedi mind trick hand gesture as he backs away> “It’s my restaurant. Restaurant El Taino.”

Me: “Um, yeah, absolutely!” <not knowing why I just agreed>

We went there after our first trip and it was not a great place to eat, and the ambiance was severely lacking. The restaurant looks like an enclosed boxed gym and the service was poor. It’s rare for us to write a bad review, but I have to say that this was one of the worst dining experiences I’ve had.

What made matters funny to us is that every single person we saw at the Rio Camuy Caves park was eating with us afterwards. His Jedi mind tricks are indeed powerful.

On our 2nd visit, we kid you not he was there again and we had the same exact conversation. Only this time, we didn’t go. We went to another far better restaurant instead. We’re guessing this is a thing and how he gets people to go to his restaurant.

If you don’t see him consider yourself lucky in an odd way because we are the ones who will give you the good restaurant advice! We’ll reveal our awesome restaurant choice in a few more paragraphs, which is just down the street from the park.

INSIDE THE PARK – WHAT YOU WILL SEE:

Pay at the ticket booth and enjoy the gift shop and 10 minute movie while you wait for the next trolley train to take you to the attractions. Cueva Clara is only accessible by trolley as it is a long, long, long hike down. The trolley itself is a fun ride as you sink deeper and deeper through the lush vegetation and moist air. You can see all types of flowers and fruits including bananas, ferns, and orchids. It’s as if you’re in a butterfly garden paradise of an upside-down mountain / or inwardly inverted (however you want to put it).

The grand cathedral entrance to Cueva Clara is not fully admired until you walk a few steps past it and look backwards. It’s quite a sight to see as it looks straight out of a mystical scene in a fantasy movie. I half expected Gandalf to come walking out of there or something.

The park provides tours lead by informative and entertaining tour guides, or you can opt for the headphones tour available in english or spanish. We prefer to kinda be on our own and take the whole place in and standing back from the crowds.

FACES AS ROCKS

What do you see?

The cave opens up to a brilliantly lit room (the cave has another opening on the opposite side), and the first fun game of the day is to see objects or people in the rock formations and stalagtites and stalagmites. As you walk in and look above the impressive cave opening (which is over 170 feet and 695 feet long), you can clearly see an Indian Rock Face overlooking the entire cave. It’s completely eerie once you see the exact replica of an Indian looking down at you from the cave where many Taino’s were here many years ago. Sort of like they’re still here? Who knows but it’s completely cool that there are formations of faces and animals literally all over this place if you see with a new perspective and set of eyes.

It takes about 15 minutes to come to the other opening where you are encountered with another impressive opening to another sinkhole and a natural water spring cascading down from above. Take a sip of the water it is amazingly fresh and clean. As natural as water can get. You can hear and glimpse the river below you as it rushes under dark openings into cave systems leading to other “unknowns.”

The sinkhole itself is off limits to tourists, but you and get a sense of perspective how big this hole is. It’s quite a beautiful sight. There are other sections to explore in this area that are closed to tourists unless you book with licensed professionals to see other parts of the cave such as Tres Pueblos Sinkhole, Cathedral Cave, and Spiral Cave.

On your walk back make sure to look out for bats, crickets, spiders, and other assorted creatures. In fact, it’s rumored that there are close to a million bats living here!

DINING

Head back to the parking lot and by this time we’re definitely sure you’re hungry! Head past the gates and make a left onto PR-129. Yes, pass the infamous El Taino Restaurant we mentioned earlier. You’re looking for the best kept secret of where to eat lechon (pork) that is not in Guavate! Trust us! Have some pork with arroz (rice) con gandules and maduros (sweet plaintains). You can’t go wrong.

Rancho T Restaurant: Yelp Link

DIRECTIONS

Rio Camuy Cave Park

Route 129 Km 18.9,HCO 2 7865-A,Camuy,00627, Puerto Rico

http://goo.gl/maps/ZvfdA

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Change Your Channel & See Window Cave In Puerto Rico
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Change Your Channel & See Window Cave In Puerto Rico

What is it within our hearts that makes us want to travel, explore, and see beyond what we can wildly imagine? What makes you want to come here? What makes you read the next sentence? Your next thought. What is our experience? What do we all have in common? Life. Experiences. Love.

Which is why, without a doubt, come to Cueva Ventana and change your channel to the “Window Cave” or “Eye of the Island.” Of all the caves in Puerto Rico, this is one of the prettiest (although sometimes crowded).

You’re heading towards the northwest corner of Puerto Rico, driving west on PR-22 towards Arecibo/Utuado and taking PR 10-down south about 10 minutes till you see a Texaco gas station on your left. You’ll see the signs you can’t miss it. Park at the gas station and grab your gear for the 25 minute hike.

There are places we see in photos that immediately leap out at us and we just absolutely know we will be there. For me, one such place has been Cueva Ventana. The journey and the path up the hill. Walking, breathing, sweating, thinking, adventuring, experiencing. Climbing….

This place will bring you those things and much more, if you allow it. Even if there’s too many people here in your opinion when you visit. Perhaps it won’t bring you anything at all save for at least a pretty great view once you get past a little darkness.

It just depends on your point of view that day I suppose…

“It is by going down into the abyss that we recover the treasures of life. Where you stumble, there lies your treasure. The very cave you are afraid to enter turns out to be the source of what you are looking for. The damned thing in the cave that was so dreaded has become the center. You find the jewel and it draws you off. In loving the spiritual, you cannot despise the earthly.”

Joseph Campbell

Cueva Ventana Puerto Rico – a metaphor if you will.

Why not?

Because if you really think about it – this trip – down to every last detail you may have missed… parallels the story we tell of our lives, doesn’t it? Why are you traveling to Puerto Rico?

There’s a reason this metaphor goes as far back with philosophers such as Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” from his work in The Republic to modern day epics like Star Wars when Luke enters the cave to face what he’s most afraid of.

Luke: “What’s in there?”

Yoda: “Only what you take with you.”

It’s not just about “hey, let’s go see a cave” – it’s about you going within. It’s about getting lost. A cave is both metaphorical and literal. There’s a lot to explore in Puerto Rico but this is one of the easiest and a very rewarding one. It’s about facing our fears. It’s about being in the middle of where you want to be. It’s just a step outside your comfort zone. It’s about being in the unknown, yet knowing, that at the end of this, at the very least, you’re getting a pretty wonderful view and that you’re going to get there with somebody special by your side. It’s personal and different to each of us.

Now, on another note and getting back down to earth. Some facts about Cueva Ventana. This place is beautiful to say the least and will give you those awe inspiring photo moments we all love. This place is also sacred as in Taino Indians were here way before the Spanish came to Puerto Rico.

CROWDS:

One note about getting here, as we’ve been here many times and during different points in life. We cannot tell you enough times that you have to see this place without the crowds if you can. Sure, it’s still not that bad if you have people here (people are courteous and take turns getting all the way to the front so you can take your pictures) – but wow, having this place to yourselves it’s what it’s all about.

The best times for this are obviously weekdays as early as possible or an hour before sunset. But if you’re itinerary does not allow this it’s still a great trip to be had and you just may get a few moments to yourself at the edge of the stunning views that look over the countryside and Rio Tanama.

COST:

The first few times we came here this was a free place to check out. However, due to the advent and popularity of people posting pictures on social media this place even became popular with the locals. Soon, they started charging about $5 to enter and made various improvements to the trails leading up to the cave and have maintained the property in a pristine state. On our last visit, we feel it got a tad ridiculous with the price increase to $10 and having to wear a helmet. Some things in our opinion should be free or at least reasonably affordable. It’s still quite a view for $10, however we did want to note that it wasn’t always like this.

THE HIKE:

You have two options to get to the “eye of the island.” Your first option and most adventurous route is to go under a tree hole (yes, look for the tree with a hole), and like Alice step into the looking glass. Come out at the other end and re-enter the darkness of the cave. This opening is where your other hiking option is (less strenuous). Once inside the dark cave, stay along your right hand side throughout. Bring your headlight. You’ll soon see a slither of light towards the right and make your way there. Now it’s up to you to see what you want to see.

MORE INFORMATION:

http://cuevaventanapr.com/

DIRECTIONS – PR10 SOUTH – ARECIBO/UTUADO

Puerto Rico 10
http://goo.gl/maps/9eoOv

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