I am trying to find a national park (or something resembling one) in Thailand that is similar to Khao Yai. I've Googled a few, and it seems some of them require you to hire a guide when entering the park. I want to be able to wander off by myself without being ushered around. I would prefer a park with roads where I can drive around by myself, but if there are no roads, that might be okay too.

I'd like to read about your experiences.

Thai parks pale in comparison to what many of use have back home.  We tried Khao Sok and were massively disappointed.  Other than the part on the water.  The walks around the HQ were terrible.  In our opinion.  I'd like to visit Sam Roi Yot.  I've heard you can drive around in the park:

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khao_Sam_Roi_Yot_National_Park

 

Maybe this will help:

 

https://www.thainationalparks.com/

Thanks, craigt3365. I've been to Sam Roi Yot, which is largely open plains rather than rain forest and dense vegetation, which is what I am looking for. Have you been to Khao Yai? I can't comment on Khao Sok, but Khao Yai is spectacular. Only disadvantage is the high elevation, which makes it chilly at night, especially if it's raining. When looking for reptiles, as I am apt to do, a warmer climate is preferable.

Edited August 12, 20169 yr by Nayet