Our annual camping spot in the valleys of Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province
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We’ve been camping for years, exploring mountains, beaches, and valleys across Korea, but one place we visit every single year is Baekjadong Valley in Gapyeong.
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The valley has plenty of clear water and even a perfect spot for diving. Of course, there are many beautiful camping sites across the country, but this one stands out because it’s close to Seoul — a convenient and refreshing getaway for weekend camping.
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Traveling is always best when it’s with family.
This trip was especially enjoyable thanks to the delicious food my mother prepared.
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We filled our bellies with fresh prawns brought all the way from Muan, Jeollanam-do, and paired them with Suwon-style beef tripe (gopchang). We decided to skip pork this time — and didn’t regret it!
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It rained lightly on and off, but that helped keep the heat away.
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A few years ago, I bought a military-style camping cot through Carrot Market. One person usually sleeps outside on it, but as the night grows colder, everyone ends up huddled together inside the tent.
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After unpacking, the first order of business was, of course, a cold beer to chase away the heat.
Then, to calm our hungry stomachs, we fired up a LPG sunflower burner (a gift from a friend) and made some instant noodles — camping style!
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Baekjadong Camping sits right next to the stream, so you can jump into the water anytime.
It’s not just about soaking your feet — there are large rocks perfect for diving and cliff jumping.
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That’s why we come back here every year.
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Even as our kids grow older, I’m sure we’ll keep coming back to Baekjadong together.
The water here is crystal clear and always inviting.
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The area is also surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges like Hannam Ridge, Yeoninsan, Myeongjisan, and Hwaaksan, making it a great place for hiking enthusiasts as well.
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At one point, I caught a small sogari (Korean perch) using a simple stick fishing rod.
Even with small ones, you have to be careful — I’ve been pricked by a sogari before, and I still remember that painful, tingling sensation spreading through my palm.
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This time, I showed the fish to my family, explained how powerful it was, and then released it back into the stream.
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The kids spent hours skipping stones across the wide stream, completely absorbed in improving their technique — and I think they’ve now surpassed me!
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As evening approached, we lit a campfire and roasted marshmallows for snacks under the night sky.
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If you’re looking for a valley campsite in Gapyeong, I highly recommend Baekjadong.
When our children were in kindergarten, there was an elementary school student who lived near the campground and used to play with them. He must be a young adult by now. Every time we visit, I ask the owner how he’s doing, though they don’t seem to know either. 🙂
Waiting for next summer, I’m posting these photos of Baekjadong Valley — a place full of memories and laughter.
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