Pa Klang Ao Forest Park & the New Ao Siam Park
Published · Last checked · Independent guide, no bookings
Pa Klang Ao is a coastal forest area in Bang Saphan district, south of Ban Krut. Today it is the headquarters of Ao Siam National Park, a new marine park that is still being set up. If you like quiet forest, shady camping and a link to the islands offshore, it is worth a look.
From forest park to national park
Pa Klang Ao and the nearby Mae Ramphueng forest were both protected as non-hunting areas. They are now being joined into Ao Siam National Park, together with the islands of Koh Thalu, Koh Sing and Koh Sang. The park is managed by Thailand's Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation.
What the park covers
According to a Bangkok Biz News report, the planned park covers about 8,051 rai. Pa Klang Ao forest makes up about 1,258 rai and holds the headquarters. The Mae Ramphueng area, mostly peat swamp forest, is about 3,706 rai. The Koh Thalu marine area is about 2,694 rai, and Koh Sing and Koh Sang about 393 rai.
Status: still being set up
As of that report, the park had not yet been fully declared in the Royal Gazette. Until it is, it has no budget of its own and only basic facilities. It is described as the southernmost marine national park in Thailand's central region. Rules and visitor services may change once it becomes official.
Camping and visiting
The report says there is shaded camping near the headquarters. Facilities are simple, so bring what you need. Treat the forest gently: stay on paths, keep noise down and take all rubbish out.
How to get there
From Phetkasem Road, go about 2 km past the Bang Saphan market and turn right towards Hat Somboon. You can also drive the side road from Ban Krut. Ask locally for the park headquarters, as signs may be limited while the park is being set up.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ao Siam National Park open?
Parts are open to visitors, but at the time of that report the park was still being set up and not fully declared. Check before you go.
Can you camp at Pa Klang Ao?
A Bangkok Biz News report mentions shaded camping near the headquarters. Confirm on arrival.
What is pa klang ao
A coastal forest area in Bang Saphan district that serves as the headquarters of the planned Ao Siam National Park.
We give no fixed prices or timetables, because they change. Check the official source (for trains, the State Railway of Thailand at railway.co.th) before you travel.
