Tourists check in at So Bong Lake this summer . Photo: Bien Nuoi Ta Lon .
In late June, many tourists flocked to take photos, picnic, and camp at So Bong Lake (Long My commune, Ho Chi Minh City). This artificial lake, nestled against Minh Dam mountain, has a surface area of over 32 hectares and a catchment area of 2.75 square kilometers, primarily serving as an irrigation source for agricultural production in Long My commune and the former Phuoc Hai town.
From June to July, before the peak of the rainy season, the lake dries up, leaving only a small pool of water in the middle and a vast expanse of green grass. Surrounded by trees and overlooking the foothills, it evokes images of the grasslands in the northern regions.
In Long My commune and the former Phuoc Hai town, the So Bong lake during the dry season offers a rare green space with fresh air.
Tam Nhu, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, visited this lake to take photos during her summer trip to Vung Tau after seeing captivating videos on social media. Upon arrival, she was surprised to find that the scenery was much more beautiful in reality.
"This place has a completely different feel compared to the other places I've been to in Vung Tau. On one side, there's a calm, flat body of water and a vast expanse of grass, while on the other side, there are mountains and green trees. It feels like 'escaping' from the crowds; the atmosphere is very relaxing," Nhu described.
The female tourist said that the road to the lake is easy to navigate, only 10-15 minutes by car from Phuoc Hai Square in the direction of Long My - Minh Dam.
According to Tien Trung, a local resident, what makes So Bong Lake special in the eyes of tourists is its lush green scenery, less crowded than the central beach area, and its unspoiled commercialization.
The best time for taking photos is around 5:30-7:00 AM, when there's still light mist and soft light. In the afternoon, you should visit between 4:00 PM and sunset, when the sky gradually changes color and the water reflects the light. Additionally, in the afternoons, visitors can rent horses for photo opportunities. The price is around 50,000 VND for standing still or 100,000 VND for riding.
He advised visitors to bring their own water and snacks as there aren't many services available in the area, especially in the mornings. He also emphasized the importance of leaving no litter behind to preserve the lake's pristine beauty.
Riding services are available at So Bong Lake every afternoon. Photo: Thao Truong.
Speaking to Tri Thức - Znews , the leader of Long Mỹ commune's People's Committee said that during the dry season, tourists can come to take photos. However, the low-lying area has muddy spots that are difficult to see, so tourists should not wade in. Warning signs are always posted there.
During the rainy season, the commune will place additional warning signs about deep water and the risk of drowning at the beginning of the road. Furthermore, the commune advises tourists to limit overnight camping as the lake area is still relatively uncrowded.
Previously, in February 2025, many young tourists did not hesitate to travel far to Vung Tau to take photos with the slope of Thuy Van road, near the Back Beach area, following the "Dai Ly" trend.
However, the concentration of large crowds on major roads also poses a risk to traffic safety. Officials from the Department of Culture and Information of Vung Tau City (formerly) also advised parking in designated areas, using sidewalks, and avoiding obstructing traffic and causing safety hazards for tourists.