Bukhansan National Park Campground Earns Top Eco-Friendly Honors

Sagimak Campground, nestled within Bukhansan National Park, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first campground in South Korea to hold all four government-certified eco-friendly titles. This recognition highlights the facility's commitment to environmental sustainability and visitor well-being.

The campground has been awarded four prestigious certifications: 'Low-Emission Vehicle Campground,' designating it as an area accessible only to electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles; 'Excellent Public Campground,' acknowledging its superior and sustainable public facilities; 'Carbon-Neutral Campground,' emphasizing its efforts to minimize carbon emissions; and 'Natural Healing Campground,' recognizing its provision of restorative experiences within a natural setting.

Sagimak Campground actively encourages visitors to participate in its sustainability efforts by proposing five key carbon-neutral practices. These include utilizing eco-friendly transportation such as public transit or bicycles, opting for eco-friendly energy sources like electric cooking and heating, engaging in recycling and upcycling initiatives like repurposing coffee grounds, using reusable containers (with rental options available on-site), and generating renewable energy through solar and pedal power.

The campground's renewable energy generation capacity stands at 77.65 kW per hour, enough to power approximately 1,939 fluorescent lights for an hour. Beyond its environmental credentials, Sagimak Campground serves as an ideal starting point for exploring Bukhansan's renowned hiking trails. Popular routes include the 2.7km trail to Sumeunbyeok Madangbawi and the 1.2km path to Baegundae Peak, offering breathtaking views of the park's three main peaks: Baegundae, Insubong, and Mangyeongdae.

Spanning an area equivalent to five football fields, Sagimak Campground offers 27 general campsites and 43 tent sites, including mountain huts and dome tents. It is equipped with amenities such as a children's playground, shower facilities, 24-hour free restrooms, electric vehicle charging stations for 10 vehicles, and public Wi-Fi. The name 'Sagimak' originates from a historical site where pottery kilns were once located. After the National Park Authority cleared illegal structures and restored the natural environment, the campground officially reopened in September 2023, transforming a previously inaccessible area into a public recreational space.