Mae Wang National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Chiang Mai, Thailand

Mae Wang National Park

Mae Wang National Park is a vibrant natural area in northern Thailand offering lush forests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.

National Park166,000 acres4+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

166,000 acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Mae Wang National Park

Mae Wang National Park is a vibrant natural area in northern Thailand offering lush forests, scenic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, ideal for hiking and nature exploration.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Mae Wang National Park is located in Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand, covering part of the mountainous Western Thanon Thong Chai Range. The park features a varied landscape of dense evergreen and deciduous forests, rolling hills, and rushing streams. Its topography is characterized by steep slopes, providing habitat for diverse flora and fauna including wild boar, gibbons, barking deer, and a variety of bird species. The park is especially noted for its pristine waterfalls, such as Mae Wang Waterfall, which is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy cool, clear waters and natural pools. The region also supports several ethnic hill tribe communities, whose traditional lifestyles add cultural interest to the natural surroundings. Outdoor enthusiasts can access numerous hiking trails that range from easy nature walks to more challenging treks ascending the higher ridges. Key landmarks include viewpoints overlooking the Mae Wang River valley and several caves. Visitors are drawn by the tranquil forest environment and opportunities to experience northern Thailand’s unique biodiversity. The park is a well-regarded site for bird watching, trekking, and immersing oneself in the natural environment while learning about local conservation efforts.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Mae Wang National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Mae Wang Waterfall – a multi-tiered waterfall with natural pools ideal for swimming✦ Ethnic hill tribe villages offering cultural insights and local crafts✦ Scenic viewpoints with panoramic views of the Mae Wang River valley✦ Dense evergreen forest providing habitat for gibbons and diverse bird species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Mae Wang National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Mae Wang National Park
Park Recreation

Cultural Tours

Available in Mae Wang National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Mae Wang National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee; no permit required for day use; small fees may apply for camping or guided tours.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Mae Wang National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Mae Wang Waterfall Campground

Located close to the main waterfall, offering basic facilities like restrooms and sheltered areas.

Hill Tribe Village Campsite

Near local Karen villages, providing an immersive cultural camping experience with minimal facilities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Mae Wang National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

San Pa Tong, Chiang Mai
⌖ 10.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Pa Tong, Chiang Mai

San Pa Tong, located near Chiang Mai, offers peaceful hiking and cycling routes through rice paddies, forests, and traditional villages. Perfect for travelers seeking gentle adventure and rich cultural encounters in northern Thailand.

November to February
Explore Town
Hang Dong, Chiang Mai Province
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hang Dong, Chiang Mai Province

Hang Dong offers a variety of outdoor activities from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and rock climbing. This quiet town near Chiang Mai is ideal for travelers who want nature plus local culture and stunning hilltop views.

November to February
Explore Town
Mae Chan, Chiang Rai Province
⌖ 14.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mae Chan, Chiang Rai Province

Mae Chan is a peaceful town in northern Thailand’s Chiang Rai Province, ideal for outdoor lovers interested in hiking, mountain biking, river paddling, and cultural trekking among hill tribes. With cool seasons and scenic landscapes, it’s a quiet gateway to northern adventures.

November to February
Explore Town
Chiang Mai, Thailand
⌖ 17.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is a cultural gem and adventure paradise in Northern Thailand. With its mountains, rivers, and parks, it offers exciting activities like hiking, rock climbing, and river rafting.

November to February
Explore Town
Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province
⌖ 18.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mueang Chiang Rai, Chiang Rai Province

Mueang Chiang Rai is a northern Thai town offering outdoor lovers hiking, cycling, kayaking, and trekking adventures amid scenic mountains, rivers, and cultural landmarks. Visit in the cool season to explore national parks, hill tribe villages, and the famous White Temple.

November to February
Explore Town
Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai
⌖ 23.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai offers a great blend of cultural exploration and outdoor adventure, from hiking Doi Inthanon to visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries. Explore waterfalls, bike trails, and zip lines in lush landscapes.

November to February
Explore Town