The best campsites near Harwich, Essex with horseback riding

Experience traditional British holidaymaking on a camping trip to Essex’s sunny seaside or travel a little further for a glimpse of the region’s wilder charms. Hipcampers in need of a quick fix can hop over the estuary to Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, where coastal campsites and rural farms provide plenty of accommodation options, while culture vultures can head into nearby Constable Country to learn more about Suffolk’s favourite son or up into The Broads to experience sailing life at its finest.

98% (194)

Top-rated campgrounds near Harwich

Experience traditional British holidaymaking on a camping trip to Essex’s sunny seaside or travel a little further for a glimpse of the region’s wilder charms. Hipcampers in need of a quick fix can hop over the estuary to Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB, where coastal campsites and rural farms provide plenty of accommodation options, while culture vultures can head into nearby Constable Country to learn more about Suffolk’s favourite son or up into The Broads to experience sailing life at its finest.

98% (194)

Top-rated campgrounds near Harwich

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%

(178)

17km from Harwich · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE

2. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%

(164)

75km from Harwich · 72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads

3. Snettisham Meadows

96%

(24)

116km from Harwich · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Set on a traditional family-run farm in rural Norfolk, Snettisham Meadows is on the outskirts of the pretty village of Snettisham and short drive away from North Norfolk's beautiful white sandy beaches. Animal-mad campers, form an orderly queue please, as this 329-acre farm has several attractions up its sleeve for you, including meet-and-greets with pigs and ponies, lamb feeding in spring and deer safaris. There’s also a dog paddock for rent so four-legged companions can have a frisk around, and an area on the camping field is reserved for guests with dogs. Campfires and barbecues are permitted and you can borrow firepits from the site owners. Logs are also available to buy. The site is only 10 minutes’ walk from a village pub if you fancy a change of scenery. After a fun-filled day exploring this lovely part of Norfolk, come back to your pitch and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and some serious stargazing. Facilities include washing-up sinks, a small shop at reception for essential supplies and tourist information, USB phone charging and a freezer for ice packs.

4. Sunnyside Campsite

51km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

Easy camping on a small site in Suffolk

5. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%

(202)

147km from Harwich · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater

6. Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

100%

(6)

50km from Harwich · 5 units · Motorhomes

A year-round lakeside site for motorhomes and caravans in Suffolk

7. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

120km from Harwich · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

8. Glamping at Bressingham Gardens

100%

(13)

52km from Harwich · 2 units · Glamping

Peaceful glamping in an undisturbed meadow in beautiful Bressingham Gardens

9. Hartfield Farm

124km from Harwich · 8 units · Tents

Private paddocks with horses and outstanding views. Lots to do and see locally- Hever Castle, Chiddingstone Castle. Very scenic Lots of walks and cycling routes. can walk/cycle along the worth way for miles. Option to ride horses at the campsite (three people per session at extra cost) Quiet and peaceful. There is running water but no electric/showers/toilets. There is a nearby caravan park up the road with a shower/toilet block.

10. Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

100%

(2)

121km from Harwich · 2 units · Glamping

A unique self catering holiday   in an area of outstanding beauty Near Rye in East Sussex Escape to the peace and tranquility of the secluded countryside We offer a magical experience where you will connect with nature and fully relax. No neighbours, total privacy and uninterrupted views of the Brede valley. We feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful location where we are surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Your experience at Barefoot yurts and Barefoot safari tent will be one that you never forget and be a place you want to come back to again and again, as so many of our guests do. We very much look forward to welcoming you. When you book our self catering Yurts or Our Safari tent you will have the whole site to yourselves. Both are in very private separate locations. Barefoot yurts has been a family business since 2009 Barefoot Yurts has 2 yurts booked together. One a bedroom and the other a sitting room that has sofa beds. There is a log cabin kitchen and shower room which is fully fitted and equipped for most cooking needs with electricity. The compost loo is next to the kitchen exclusive to the yurt guests. Barefoot safari tent is for 2 adults only. All under one roof is the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Off Grid.

11. Nelson Park Riding Centre

93%

(7)

66km from Harwich · 3 units · Glamping

Glamping with a view of the horses in Thanet's largest riding centre.

12. Greenhill Glamping

100%

(31)

91km from Harwich · 2 units · Glamping

Impeccably restored huts from the late 19th-century, kitted out for couples with king-sized beds, wood-burning stoves and views over the Kent Downs

13. Glamp and Tipple

92%

(13)

70km from Harwich · 5 units · Glamping

Hotel-style glamping in Yurts on a Norfolk farm

14. North Farm

88%

(4)

93km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

North Farm is situated in the beautiful Norfolk countryside, between the villages of Skeyton, Oxnead and Burgh. . Guests can spot all sorts of wildlife during the day and stargaze at night, with no streetlights to spoil the view. Being centrally located in Norfolk means that Norwich, the famous Norfolk broads and the Norfolk coast are all a short car ride away.

15. The Orchard Wagon

100%

(2)

42km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

A true escape in the wild, our secluded Orchard Wagon is nestled in the corner of the apple orchard. Close to delightful beaches at Dunwich, Walberswick and Southwold, and a walk to the local pub. Perfect for those that want to get back to basics in nature, the wagon comfortably sleeps 2 people and includes a private bathroom, washing and kitchen cabin. The Orchard Wagon has a double bed (1.5m x 2m) with a smart little wood-burning stove to keep you toasty as you watch the stunning Suffolk sunsets. White Egyptian cotton sheets and towels provided. Cooking couldn’t be easier with the well-equipped cooking cabin next door or the barbeque on the stone terrace in front. Fire up the Chiminea to keep you warm as you eat al fresco. Take the stepping stone path up behind the wagon to find the washing shed with three separate rooms for washing up, showering, and the composting loo. Plenty of hot water and for those who like communing with nature try showering with the door open - it’s a lovely experience and what a view. This is camping in style!

16. Wood View Farm Sole use Glamping

101km from Harwich · 10 units · Glamping

Exclusive use glamping. Beautiful meadow. Relax and unwind amidst glorious countryside in a beautiful rural environment. This is our entire glamping meadow, with up to 6 erected and equipped 5 metre Bell tents accommodating up to 24 adults or 30 if an adult children mix in our idyllic popular location. For Sole (Exclusive) use minimum group size is 3 tents 12 guests. Maximum 6 tents 24 guests, higher numbers may be available on prior request For lower numbers 1 tent 2 – 4 guests or 2 tents 4 - 8 guests book individual tents. Along a quiet country lane, yet easily accessible by road or rail, ideal central Kent location for London from about an hour. We offer a retreat style, rural back to nature, exclusive use, dog free, countryside experience, for groups of families, multigenerational family gatherings, couples, and respectful hen and stag groups, boot camps, yoga and wellness retreats, corporate bookings and all those respectful of our peaceful rural location and terms and conditions are welcome, sedate gatherings no music or music parties. Quiet hours 11pm - 9am. Security deposit may apply. Well equipped and spacious, including our gorgeous 5metre natural and waterproof cotton bell tents, lovely warm duvets or sleeping bags, towels and hot showers, cutlery and crockery, sinks, fridges, BBQ s, ( incl gas) benches, chairs, tables, firepit , with nature all around, lots of space to run, play and explore. Have a local meal delivered or cook dinner on our gas bbq s , toast marshmallows and enjoy a mug of hot chocolate or wine by the campfires in the evenings. Close to small villages with shops, village pubs, walking distance to Great Pub, Restaurant(s) and shop. Enjoy family fun, daytime games, walks and cycle rides, fresh air, open skies, wildlife plus plenty to see and do in the local area, and at the end of the day drift off under a canopy of stars. We have a long list of local activities and attractions to choose from including days and nights out and can help you plan a great stay, see our many 5 *****reviews on the internet for confirmation of this. Please leave the site as you find it, for example but not only, no litter or party confetti.

17. Secluded AONB group glamping

100%

(5)

127km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

Babylon Woods is made up of 90 acres of unspoilt countryside, most of which is ancient woodlands. Our glamping site is located in a 19 Acre field which is exclusively yours, not another soul (certainly no other campers) will disturb you apart from the odd rabbit or dear! The south coast is only 10 mins away with all kinds of water activities and hikes to enjoy. On site you have plenty of woodland walks to explore and if you are a fan of English Wine, we are slap bang in the middle of wine country with numerous vineyards to explore locally.

Camper favorites near Harwich

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Glamp and Tipple

92%

(13)

70km from Harwich · 5 units · Glamping

Hotel-style glamping in Yurts on a Norfolk farm

North Farm

88%

(4)

93km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

North Farm is situated in the beautiful Norfolk countryside, between the villages of Skeyton, Oxnead and Burgh. . Guests can spot all sorts of wildlife during the day and stargaze at night, with no streetlights to spoil the view. Being centrally located in Norfolk means that Norwich, the famous Norfolk broads and the Norfolk coast are all a short car ride away.

The Orchard Wagon

100%

(2)

42km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

A true escape in the wild, our secluded Orchard Wagon is nestled in the corner of the apple orchard. Close to delightful beaches at Dunwich, Walberswick and Southwold, and a walk to the local pub. Perfect for those that want to get back to basics in nature, the wagon comfortably sleeps 2 people and includes a private bathroom, washing and kitchen cabin. The Orchard Wagon has a double bed (1.5m x 2m) with a smart little wood-burning stove to keep you toasty as you watch the stunning Suffolk sunsets. White Egyptian cotton sheets and towels provided. Cooking couldn’t be easier with the well-equipped cooking cabin next door or the barbeque on the stone terrace in front. Fire up the Chiminea to keep you warm as you eat al fresco. Take the stepping stone path up behind the wagon to find the washing shed with three separate rooms for washing up, showering, and the composting loo. Plenty of hot water and for those who like communing with nature try showering with the door open - it’s a lovely experience and what a view. This is camping in style!

Wood View Farm Sole use Glamping

101km from Harwich · 10 units · Glamping

Exclusive use glamping. Beautiful meadow. Relax and unwind amidst glorious countryside in a beautiful rural environment. This is our entire glamping meadow, with up to 6 erected and equipped 5 metre Bell tents accommodating up to 24 adults or 30 if an adult children mix in our idyllic popular location. For Sole (Exclusive) use minimum group size is 3 tents 12 guests. Maximum 6 tents 24 guests, higher numbers may be available on prior request For lower numbers 1 tent 2 – 4 guests or 2 tents 4 - 8 guests book individual tents. Along a quiet country lane, yet easily accessible by road or rail, ideal central Kent location for London from about an hour. We offer a retreat style, rural back to nature, exclusive use, dog free, countryside experience, for groups of families, multigenerational family gatherings, couples, and respectful hen and stag groups, boot camps, yoga and wellness retreats, corporate bookings and all those respectful of our peaceful rural location and terms and conditions are welcome, sedate gatherings no music or music parties. Quiet hours 11pm - 9am. Security deposit may apply. Well equipped and spacious, including our gorgeous 5metre natural and waterproof cotton bell tents, lovely warm duvets or sleeping bags, towels and hot showers, cutlery and crockery, sinks, fridges, BBQ s, ( incl gas) benches, chairs, tables, firepit , with nature all around, lots of space to run, play and explore. Have a local meal delivered or cook dinner on our gas bbq s , toast marshmallows and enjoy a mug of hot chocolate or wine by the campfires in the evenings. Close to small villages with shops, village pubs, walking distance to Great Pub, Restaurant(s) and shop. Enjoy family fun, daytime games, walks and cycle rides, fresh air, open skies, wildlife plus plenty to see and do in the local area, and at the end of the day drift off under a canopy of stars. We have a long list of local activities and attractions to choose from including days and nights out and can help you plan a great stay, see our many 5 *****reviews on the internet for confirmation of this. Please leave the site as you find it, for example but not only, no litter or party confetti.

Secluded AONB group glamping

100%

(5)

127km from Harwich · 1 unit · Glamping

Babylon Woods is made up of 90 acres of unspoilt countryside, most of which is ancient woodlands. Our glamping site is located in a 19 Acre field which is exclusively yours, not another soul (certainly no other campers) will disturb you apart from the odd rabbit or dear! The south coast is only 10 mins away with all kinds of water activities and hikes to enjoy. On site you have plenty of woodland walks to explore and if you are a fan of English Wine, we are slap bang in the middle of wine country with numerous vineyards to explore locally.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

F

Frankie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Snettisham Meadows

A nice very clean campsite. Showers were nice and warm. Had a lovely campfire and watched the sun go down

Grass Pitch with access to Electric Hook Up

S

Sandra

August 2025

5 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cuckoo Farm Campsite

Great one night stop over with my grandson. Great showers and we were there on a Sunday morning so went on the farm tour which was brilliant

L

Lisa

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Snettisham Meadows

Good facilities, plenty of hot water. Within walking distance of. Snettisham and a short drive to the coast. Perfect for a couple of nights camping.

M

Mandy

August 2025

5 m Class B

3 nights at Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

The setting was prefect it was quiet adult only with great space and a beautiful lake lots of walks around .Great for biking around as well! Hollie was very friendly, we would definitely recommend it! and will be going back.

C

Courtney

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

A great location - 3 minute walk from the beach. Campsite has showers and toilet blocks that are fairly basic but clean and proper buildings/structures. Camp pitches are fairly close together, but the campsite lead is fairly relaxed about the tent locations. An easy going vibe overall and peaceful setting.

Y

Yasko

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Orchard Wagon

The lovely wagon by the apple trees farm. Bed room, toilet, shower, everywhere is clean, tidy, and organised. Very quiet, no one distracted us. Lots of starts in the night, wake up with sun rise.. .... Everything was super perfect!! Caroline, the host was generouse and kind , too. We defnitly get back the wagon again!

M

Milan

June 2025

1 night at Glamp and Tipple

Very pleasant stay Yurt nicely furnished comfortable bed,AMAZING Hot tub, Equipment everything needed available. Thank you for the stay

C

Cherian

June 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Secluded AONB group glamping

I can’t recommend this camping site enough. Nestled within 90 acres of serene, open land, it offers a truly secluded escape from the noise and chaos of everyday life. The setting is stunning – peaceful, untouched, and expansive – with total freedom to roam and unwind. Georgina and Max are exceptional hosts. They’ve thought of absolutely everything, and their attention to detail shows in every corner of the site. From the moment we arrived, everything was smooth and clearly explained. They’ve created that perfect sweet spot between traditional camping and glamping – you get the authentic outdoorsy experience without compromising on convenience or comfort. From essentials to thoughtful extras, everything you could possibly need has been provided. It’s clear they’ve poured a lot of love and effort into making this a truly special place. There were zero issues – no noise, no disturbances – just nature, calm, and comfort. I’ll absolutely be coming back, and I recommend this place wholeheartedly to anyone looking for a proper, well-balanced camping getaway.

G

Gillian

June 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Cuckoo Farm Campsite

Good facilities and a lovely lady running the site. Busy at weekend but quiter in the week. Very well organised and farm animals lovely. Shop was an added bonus.

M

Matthew

June 2025

5 m Class A

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

Super location for easy access the coast and coastal path.. A quiet and sheltered little site.

M

Matthew

June 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

A great little site. Love the closeness to the beach.

N

Nasrin

April 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

Everything was perfect and very safe and nice and clean place.

m

mike

March 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

Brilliant little site and such a bargin to boot, site is well equipped and secure hard standing pitches. Owners great and friendly. Site is placed for good access to local tourist sites. Definitely will return this year.

welcome to welscome to Hunstanton camping and glamping

n

nigel

December 2024

Tent

1 night at Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

lovly location, a warm and friendly welcome, great watching the wildlife at nearby Wild ken hill and RSPB Snettisham , and with being just minutes form the dog friendly beach a; made my stay perfect

J

Joanne

November 2024

Weekend Trip to Greenhill Glamping

We were so delighted by our stay at the Ploughman's. The interior is a testimony to true craftsmanship, with so many exquisite, authentic details. The view of the green hills, horses and sheep calmly munching away in the distance gave a feeling of timelessness. The log fire was warm and cosy and the bed is extremely comfy. Total peace and relaxation! Many thanks for such a deeply restful stay.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best campsites near Harwich with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Tendring Coast

Also known as Essex’s Sunshine Coast, this coastal peninsula is home to the traditional holiday towns of Harwich & Dovercourt, Walton-on-the-Naze, and Clacton-on-Sea. Wildlife lovers can get their fill at reserves such as Holland Haven Country Park or Hamford Water, while hikers and bikers can explore inland nature trails or take a turn around the Blue Flag beaches. Holiday parks abound, with plenty of caravan and tent spots to choose from.

Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB

Head over the border into Suffolk to discover one of Britain’s most popular nature spots. Stretching from Felixstowe to Lowestoft, this 80-km stretch boasts a biodiverse landscape of heathland, woodland, estuary, and coast, as well as seaside towns and holiday parks aplenty. Recently, the area has expanded to include the Stour estuary, just west of Harwich.

Dedham Vale AONB and Stour Valley

Following the River Stour west from Manningtree, this reserve is a family favourite thanks to its lowland trails and unique artistic heritage. Here, visitors can explore what is affectionately referred to as Constable Country, stopping off in Dedham and Flatford to learn more about the artist’s life and work. Riverside camping is another highlight.

The Broads

Drive north for 90 minutes and you’ll arrive at The Broads, a vast network of waterways that draw ramblers, anglers, and birdwatchers with their biodiverse banks and riverside campsites. It’s also possible to hire out boats, kayaks, or paddleboards, so you can easily take your outdoor adventure directly to the water.

When to go

Summer on the Essex and Suffolk coasts and canals can get very busy, so it’s worth booking your stay well in advance. To avoid the crowds, consider a winter visit, which also tends to afford more intimate glimpses of the region’s wildlife.

Know before you go

Public transport is generally convenient, though if you’re traveling further, it can be worth renting or bringing a vehicle.
Trail maps can often be downloaded for free on a park or local borough’s website.
Wild swimming is a popular activity in the region, but be sure to take all precautions.
Anglers must always carry a license.