A Field Guide to RV Camping Along the Ili Loop, Xinjiang

If there is one travel style that lets you fully immerse yourself in the vastness and variety of Xinjiang, RV camping is surely near the top. Along the Ili Loop, you wake to snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, and rolling grasslands, and fall asleep beneath a canopy of stars. I drove the entire route in an RV and tested each campsite firsthand. Below is an honest breakdown to help fellow travelers plan their trip.

Sayram Lake: Worth an Overnight Stay

Sayram Lake is an unmissable camping spot on the Ili Loop. Several lakeside locations are suitable for parking overnight, each with distinct characteristics.

The area near Songshutou offers the best overall experience. In summer, wildflowers are in full bloom and the sunset is spectacular. The next morning, you can climb the boardwalk for a panoramic view of the lake, and on clear days, even spot the Guozigou Bridge in the distance.

Kele Yongzhu has the advantage of fewer visitors in the early morning, and swans often swim close to shore to feed. However, it can get somewhat noisy as the day progresses. If you do not mind being woken by the sounds of nature, it is a charming spot.

Xihai Grassland and Dianjiangtai are quieter, though the scenery is less impressive than the previous two. They suit travelers who prioritize tranquility. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Yining: Xintu Outdoor Self-Drive Campground

The campground is spacious and equipped with power and water hookups. A small shop on site sells drinks and basic supplies. According to the owner, it operates from April to October each year. The resupply conditions are convenient, making it a solid mid-route rest stop.

Zhaosu: Two Options

The camping spot beside the Zhaosu Museum has relatively clean restrooms and is close to a food street, making dining easy. Note that parking is limited to roughly thirty spaces, so arriving early during peak season is advisable.

Tianma RV Camping Valley offers open views and a clean site, with a nearby hotel for meals. For larger groups, a campfire can be arranged, adding to the atmosphere. It is well suited for travelers journeying together.

Tekes: Three Stopping Points

Jingxiang Yangguang Self-Drive Campground is fully equipped, and the owner is warm and attentive, even offering to guide guests around nearby attractions. It is ideal for those planning a longer stay who want a deeper experience of the area.

The Taijiyan Ferris Wheel parking lot and the Rule of Law Culture Square RV campsite are both open parking areas. Their main advantage is water access, making them suitable for brief transit stops rather than overnight stays.

Gongliu: Differ Lake RV Relay Station

This relay station is best suited for a quick rest during a long drive. Water and power are available for top-ups, making it a practical midway stop.

Kuerdening: Points to Note

This section requires special attention, as all the campsites here have notable drawbacks.

Kafeng Base Camp is located at the trailhead, but connecting a hose to the water tap is inconvenient. The Kuerdening campsite has an unpaved, uneven surface, and the restrooms are situated far from the parking area. Qiahai Campground only has pit latrines, so using your RV's onboard facilities is recommended. If you must stop in Kuerdening, it is best to set realistic expectations and prepare accordingly.

Nalati: Inside and Outside the Scenic Area

Xinyi Campground is located near the east gate of the scenic area. Accommodation prices are on the high side, so sleeping in the RV is the more economical choice. The service point outside the area charges a parking fee of ten yuan, but the power boxes are generally occupied by long-term residential vehicles, meaning charging needs may go unmet. Having a backup plan is advisable.

Tangbula: Starry Sky Camp

This is the best value campsite along the entire route. Located at the heart of the Hundred-Mile Gallery, the overnight fee is fifty yuan, including water and electricity. The highlight is lying back at night and gazing up at the star-filled sky — an open, unobstructed view that makes the experience truly memorable.

Dushanzi: Dushanzi RV Campground

How you use this campsite depends on your route. If you are heading toward Sayram Lake, it serves well as your final overnight stop. If you are taking the Duku Highway, it is an ideal place to rest before setting out. Water and electricity facilities are complete, making it suitable for a proper rest and reset.

Practical Tips

Bring a long water hose — at some campsites, the tap is located far from the parking spot, and it pays to be prepared. Arrive at campsites early, as the best spots tend to be taken quickly. The temperature difference between day and night in the Ili region is significant: be sure to protect yourself from the sun during the day and stay warm at night. Layered clothing is recommended.