12 Best Things to Do Near Johor Bahru (JB) for Nature Lovers

When most people think of Johor Bahru, they think of café hopping, boutique shopping, and cheap massages. But if you look past the malls and crowds, there’s a quieter, greener side of Johor state waiting to be explored. While some of these places sit just outside JB city, they’re still within easy reach (around just 1 to 2 hours’ drive from the Causeway).

Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or just craving fresh air and open skies, this guide is for you. Everything listed here has been confirmed open and accessible in 2025.

Also read: 2D1N Johor Road Trip Itinerary: Nature Lovers’ Edition

Hiking and easy trails

Gunung Pulai Recreational Forest

A local favourite, Gunung Pulai offers a rewarding hike with both paved and jungle trails. The west-side route takes about 2.5 hours to summit and rewards hikers with cool forest air and scenic views. The southeast side, near Taman Awam BBKP and Dewa Fu Lai Temple, offers easier alternatives, often used by families and casual walkers. The site is open year-round but may occasionally close for maintenance.

Sireh Park, Iskandar Puteri

Sireh Park has grown into a go-to spot for both walkers and off-road riders. With open lawns, mini hills, and shaded paths, it’s ideal for those who want a nature fix without venturing too far. There’s also a glamping site and weekend food trucks near the entrance, giving the area a relaxed, community feel.

Bukit Batu Gajah

Less crowded than Gunung Pulai, this 3.5-kilometre trail winds through oil palm plantations and low hills. You can start at either Felda Ulu Tebrau or the Ekoflora trailhead. The route is shared with cyclists and dirt bikers, so stay alert on weekends.

Also read: A Guide To Johor’s Hiking Trails for Every Kind of Adventurer

Water-based nature spots

Jeram Sendayan, Gunung Panti

A peaceful riverside site with natural rapids and cool pools, Jeram Sendayan is one of the best alternatives now that Kota Tinggi Waterfall remains closed. With tent plots available for campers and water features for families, it’s a good pick for those wanting to spend a full day outdoors. Check their Facebook page or WhatsApp the owners before visiting, as operating hours can shift depending on crowd levels.

Tanjung Piai National Park

Located at the southernmost tip of mainland Asia, this mangrove-rich national park offers boardwalks, coastal breezes, and quiet lookout points. A short drive from Legoland and Pontian, it’s especially popular with families and nature photographers. It remains open to visitors and is one of the more accessible protected areas in the region.

Kota Tinggi Firefly Park

As dusk falls, you can take a 45-minute boat cruise to watch fireflies light up the mangroves. The park is located just off the main highway heading toward Desaru. Cruises start around 7.30pm, but it’s best to arrive early to avoid the dinner-hour traffic.

Also read: A Guide to 7 Heart-Racing Adventures for a Thrill-Seeker in Johor Bahru (JB)

Farms, forests, and eco activities

Folo Farm, Ulu Tiram

Founded by a group of friends who left behind corporate careers, Folo Farm is both a working organic farm and a quiet space for visitors to reconnect with the land. Visits are only allowed on designated Open Days, which happen once or twice a month. You can register interest through their Facebook page or website.

Putuo Village, Kulai

This bamboo-framed temple complex sits in a peaceful grove just north of JB. Visitors can walk through prayer gardens, spin old-school prayer wheels, and grab a quiet bite at the on-site café. Entry is RM10 (~s$3) and they’re open daily from 9am to 6pm. Seasonal installations, like a wire-suspended dragon for the Year of the Dragon, add a playful artistic touch to the space.

Also read: Kulai Weekend Trip Itinerary: Where to Eat, Stay, Shop & Hike

Glamping and camping

Rustika Glamping Village

Located near Punggai beach, Rustika is one of the most well-kept and beginner-friendly glamping spots in Johor. With tents for up to eight people and maintained common areas, it’s a solid pick for families or first-timers. The campsite is managed by a Singaporean family and is currently operating normally.

Tiger Base Camp, Tanjung Sedili

Accessible by dirt road, TBC is one of the more ulu options for campers. You can rent tents, hammocks, and even picnic tables for the day. It’s a popular spot for groups who want a real “off-grid” experience. The team behind the camp can also help arrange transport from the nearest main road if your car can’t handle the trail.

Six Acres Campsite and RAF Point, Kota Tinggi

Six Acres sits on a hilltop and often gets misty in the mornings. It offers great views of the plains below and decent facilities for campers. Just down the slope, RAF Point operates Johor’s longest zipline and also rents ATVs. It’s family-friendly and known for being one of the more activity-packed campsites in the region.

Also read: 5 Johor Resorts Less Than 2 Hours from Singapore

Off-road and adventure

ATV Park Johor, Sungei Lebak Trail

This park runs off-road trails through jungle paths, with options that include waterfall stops and hill climbs. The Sungei Lebak route is scenic and a little muddy, so bring a change of clothes. Advance booking is required as there’s no walk-in counter at the trail entrance.

Final thoughts

There’s more to JB than malls and massages. If you’re craving some open skies, rushing water, and the quiet rhythm of nature, there are plenty of places just beyond the city that are waiting to be explored. Whether you want to camp by a river, hike a mossy trail, or just sit under a tree, Johor has something for you.