Camping and Starry Sky Campsite
How to camp in Xinjiang: formal campsites at Sayram Lake and Nalati, safety of desert campsites, equipment checklist, and staying warm at night. Camping and Starry Sky Campsite belongs to the pre-trip essentials series for Xinjiang travel: season and trip length, permits and border passes, private car and transport, mobile payment and internet, food and accommodation - check it off before departure.
Official Campsites
There are established campsites around Sayram Lake, Nalati, and Kanas (with tent accommodations and restroom facilities); desert campsites use fixed locations in collaboration with scenic areas, ensuring safety.
Seasons and Warmth
June to September is the camping season; night temperatures on the grasslands in summer are only around ten degrees Celsius, so down sleeping bags are essential; it is windy by the lakeside, so choose tents suitable for three seasons or more.
Equipment List
Tent, sleeping bag, moisture-proof mat, headlamp, power bank, garbage bags (Leave No Trace principles); bring enough food and water for "more than half a day".
Red Lines
Access to the core areas of nature reserves is prohibited; avoid fenced pastures and wetlands when camping; fires are allowed only in designated areas.