WILLEM’S RUS
If, like me, you love to camp but you consider green grass, a luxury ablution block and a swimming pool to be vital components of the camping experience, then Willem’s Rus is the place for you. All 25 stands are manicured to precision and the entire place is spotless. Willem’s Rus is owned and designed by Jeanette Vorster and her husband. They’re campers themselves and they’ve added all the small features that make a good campsite great. (They’ve also got rid of the things they dislike, like those yucky plastic shower curtains that stick to you without fail.) Even the most ardent non-camper will enjoy a night here under the stars, listening to lions roaring and jackals yelping. Facilities: There are 25 stands, some of which can accommodate bigger groups. Each stand has a tap, there are more than enough power points and there are indoor and outdoor scullery facilities. Stands 1, 2 and 3 are tucked away and will probably be the quietest. They need to be booked together and share a boma and a private bathroom with an outdoor shower. Stands 4 and 5 have the best view of the waterhole. The rest of the stands share two spotless ablution blocks, with baths and outdoor showers. Wood and ice is available at reception. TIP The website has photos of almost all the stands so you can choose before you book. Game drives are available on request. Niggles? I visited during the week and the campsite was nearly empty. As with just about all campsites, however, the weekend will likely be more raucous. You just have to hope your neighbour isn’t an amateur accordion enthusiast… How to get there: Enter the DGR at the main gate (Tau) and turn right onto the De Wagensdrift gravel road just after the “Safari Mall”. Drive for about 2 km and turn right into Patrys Street. Drive for another 1,6 km until a crossing. Immediately after this, turn 145° left and follow the road for 200 m. Rates: From R420 per stand for up to four adults and one vehicle, plus R90 per extra person and R60 per extra vehicle. Children get a discount. Contact: 081 702 2989 (Jeanette); willemsrus.co.za