This secluded getaway is found on the South Coast some 12km inland from Umzinto, along the Ixopo road. The reserve's wooded slopes, grassland ridges and clear views of the ocean to the east offer the ideal setting for communing with nature while enjoying the excellent trails, picnic facilities and autotrail.

The reserve boasts 56 mammal species. These include zebra, blue wildebeest, bushbuck, blesbok, oribi, reedbuck, blue and grey duiker, black-backed jackal, vervet monkeys, rock hyrax, tree hyrax, caracal, slender mongoose, white tailed mongoose, egyptian mongoose, banded mongoose and porcupine. The abundant birdlife (some 300 confirmed species) includes a number of spectacular raptors like the Crowned and Marshall eagles, which nest in the reserve, while an interesting variety of indigenous flora adds to the reserve's attractions, not least in spring when the veld is alive with colour.

Vernon Crookes Camp has one twenty-bed rustic tree house that features three bedrooms, a kitchen, a lounge/dining area and communal bathroom facilities. Guests should bring their own bedding and towels.

In addition five fully equipped two-bed rondavels are set snugly into the wooded hillside. The camp has a communal fully equipped kitchen, ablution facility and lounge. Satellite television is available in the lounge for guests.

Rates Include:
Accommodation, community levy, emergency rescue levy and 14% VAT.

Rates Exclude:
Optional Extras

Gate Opening and Closing Times:  Summer (October to March) 06:00 to 18:00
Winter (April to September) 06:00 to 17:00

Office Hours: The office is open from 08:00 to 13:00 from Monday to Friday and from 08:00 to 12:00 on Sundays.

Distance and Time from Gate to Camp: 6 kms

Check Out Time: 10:00   Check In time: 14:00

The nearest town which has a full range of services is Umzinto which is 9 kms away.

Facilities for people with disabilities: None

Pets are not permitted into the reserve.