Wildlife-watching campsites in Epping Forest

Forest walks don’t come more impressive than Epping Forest, with 12 miles of rambling woodlands stretching north of London. Venture into the trees to explore miles of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails; spot native wildlife; or play a game of golf at one of the two courses. Campers staying at Epping Forest can also explore the adjoining Lee Valley Regional Park, where activities include fly fishing and boat cruises along the Lea River. For a break from the forest, slip away to a country pub on the forest outskirts, or hop aboard for a ride on the Epping Ongar steam railway.

95% (568)

Top-rated campgrounds

Forest walks don’t come more impressive than Epping Forest, with 12 miles of rambling woodlands stretching north of London. Venture into the trees to explore miles of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails; spot native wildlife; or play a game of golf at one of the two courses. Campers staying at Epping Forest can also explore the adjoining Lee Valley Regional Park, where activities include fly fishing and boat cruises along the Lea River. For a break from the forest, slip away to a country pub on the forest outskirts, or hop aboard for a ride on the Epping Ongar steam railway.

95% (568)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(72)

3 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

2. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

3. Daisy May’s Farm

87%

(178)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Bishop's Stortford, England

Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!

4. Wood View Farm Sole use Glamping

10 units · Glamping · High Halden, England

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.

5. Wingbury Farm Glamping

98%

(26)

3 units · Glamping · Buckinghamshire, South East England

Modern pod glamping with hot tubs in a quiet Buckinghamshire meadow

6. Pitchcott Farm

92%

(31)

11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Aylesbury, England

Nearly wild, back-to-nature camping on a regenerative farm in Buckinghamshire

7. Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

90%

(20)

39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Sudbury, Suffolk, East Anglia

Update we allow cars ad camper and this land has a special energy. Set in the valley with the hillside gives 360 degrees view of natural landscape. Wethersfield Eco Project is the historic parkland of Wethersfield Manor. Veteren Oaks and Sequoia Grace the woodland hillside with badgers and foxes in the sandy hills, buzzards and kites soaring the ponds full of dragonfly. Great space for a family or romantic getaway or larger group party. If you are a group under 10 people please expect to share the space with others but we'll ensure you have your own private area! Bring your sound system and have your own party or event. Music must be off after 11pm as houses are 500metres away. Price is per adult 16 or over per night 11am to 11am checkout. Late checkout or day rate til 5pm is 10 per adult. Kids free. Dogs are 5 pounds.

8. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

95%

(65)

17 units · Tents, Glamping · East Sussex, South East England

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

9. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%

(13)

3 units · Glamping · East Hoathly, Near Lewes, England

The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.

10. Earth Camp

90%

(34)

33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.

11. The Secret Campsite

99%

(91)

21 units · Tents, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

A not so secret campsite in East Sussex with camping and glamping – and campfires encouraged

12. Constable Park

100%

(20)

17 units · Tents, Glamping · Suffolk, East Anglia

A holiday and leisure park ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, with premium glamping options

13. The Hop Farm

82%

(37)

50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brenchley, England

The Hop Farm is set in 500 acres of unspoilt Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England. Flat grass fields and surrounded by private woodland and also fields abut the River Medway, ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Campers have access to newly refurbished facilities, state of the art showers, toilets and washing facilities. Raised BBQ's and raised firepits are permitted - we also rent these out (subject to availability). It's the ideal location for a peaceful escape with endless skies providing memorable sunsets and stars unhindered by artificial light. SITE RULES: Admission is only permitted after registering at reception. At least one of the party members must be aged 21 or over. Under 18s must be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. Group bookings of 6 or more adults are not permitted (couples and immediate family members excepted). No hen/stag parties permitted. Single-sex bookings of 4 or more people (couples and immediate family members excepted) are not permitted.

14. Painters Farm Campsite

99%

(38)

46 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Whitstable, England

Nestled beside the village of Painters Forstal, Faversham, Kent. Our two acre orchard site with grass pitches. The campsite lies within seventeen acres on the slope of The Kent Downs, a designated area of natural beauty. The Alma ale house at the edge of the farm serves Shepherds Neame and hot meals all year round. Two acre quiet cherry orchard site based around a Tudor Manor house 1547 that gives its name to our village. Surrounded by orchards and open countryside but within easy reach of Faversham, Whitstable and Canterbury. Pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans with or without electric hook up on a level grassy site. Pets are welcome and a crew member is always around the reception or farm to help out. The Campsite is open from 1st march until 31st October. The local area is awash with things to do. Faversham once the busiest port in 17th century England for its wool trade has the longest complete medieval street in the country. A wealth of little shops, cafes and pubs as well as the country’s oldest family owned brewery Shepherd Neame. Whitstable sitting just along the coast, famed for its Oysters and Sunsets is a fun beachside community bustling in the summer months and hauntingly bleak in the winter ones. The World Heritage sites of Canterbury are just a fifteen minute trip away with all its well documented history and plentiful shops and eateries.

15. Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

16. Wild Boar Wood Campsite

97%

(68)

9 units · Glamping · Haywards Heath, England

Wild woodland glamping in the heart of Sussex with fires

17. Lockhurst Hatch Farm Glamping

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

A single, traditional shepherd's hut with countryside views, and a cosy feel

18. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England

Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.

19. Caracol Camping

100%

(5)

8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England

Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.

20. Berty the yurty

94%

(18)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.

Camper favorites in and near Epping Forest

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Hop Farm

82%

(37)

50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brenchley, England

The Hop Farm is set in 500 acres of unspoilt Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England. Flat grass fields and surrounded by private woodland and also fields abut the River Medway, ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Campers have access to newly refurbished facilities, state of the art showers, toilets and washing facilities. Raised BBQ's and raised firepits are permitted - we also rent these out (subject to availability). It's the ideal location for a peaceful escape with endless skies providing memorable sunsets and stars unhindered by artificial light. SITE RULES: Admission is only permitted after registering at reception. At least one of the party members must be aged 21 or over. Under 18s must be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. Group bookings of 6 or more adults are not permitted (couples and immediate family members excepted). No hen/stag parties permitted. Single-sex bookings of 4 or more people (couples and immediate family members excepted) are not permitted.

Painters Farm Campsite

99%

(38)

46 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Whitstable, England

Nestled beside the village of Painters Forstal, Faversham, Kent. Our two acre orchard site with grass pitches. The campsite lies within seventeen acres on the slope of The Kent Downs, a designated area of natural beauty. The Alma ale house at the edge of the farm serves Shepherds Neame and hot meals all year round. Two acre quiet cherry orchard site based around a Tudor Manor house 1547 that gives its name to our village. Surrounded by orchards and open countryside but within easy reach of Faversham, Whitstable and Canterbury. Pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans with or without electric hook up on a level grassy site. Pets are welcome and a crew member is always around the reception or farm to help out. The Campsite is open from 1st march until 31st October. The local area is awash with things to do. Faversham once the busiest port in 17th century England for its wool trade has the longest complete medieval street in the country. A wealth of little shops, cafes and pubs as well as the country’s oldest family owned brewery Shepherd Neame. Whitstable sitting just along the coast, famed for its Oysters and Sunsets is a fun beachside community bustling in the summer months and hauntingly bleak in the winter ones. The World Heritage sites of Canterbury are just a fifteen minute trip away with all its well documented history and plentiful shops and eateries.

Finchingfield Lavender & Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Finchingfield, England

Luxury camping and glamping pitches within a wildflower meadow. Private loo per pitch, fire pit with BBQ Grill & a picnic bench. Our North Essex hideaway is perfect for a country retreat under the stars. Just over an hour away from London, located in a rural setting outside the chocolate box village of Finchingfield with tea rooms and three great independent pubs. We are a micro Lavender farm home to 3.5 kms of hand planted Lavandula × intermedia 'Lavender Grosso'. Our campers and glampers have unlimited access to our lavender field which overlooks rolling fields and sunset views, perfect for a relaxing evening amongst the purple blooms

Wild Boar Wood Campsite

97%

(68)

9 units · Glamping · Haywards Heath, England

Wild woodland glamping in the heart of Sussex with fires

Lockhurst Hatch Farm Glamping

100%

(8)

1 unit · Glamping · Surrey, South East England

A single, traditional shepherd's hut with countryside views, and a cosy feel

Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%

(8)

4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England

Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.

Caracol Camping

100%

(5)

8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England

Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.

Berty the yurty

94%

(18)

1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.

Stories from the community

e

erin

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!

L

Lee

October 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Painters Farm Campsite

Great welcome and although the windiest weekend of the year so far a decent pitch with a little shelter. Two walks over the weekend one directly from camp and the other from the Swale estuary car park, both worth it.

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

LOVED this stay. If your little one has sensitive ears you may need ear plugs/defenders as the aircrafts are rather loud. But over all, I loved this trip. Maybe need to take your own headlamp/torch as bathroom lamps were temperamental. Staff were amazing, everything well equipped. Would definitely recommend.

C

Charlie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Had such a great stay at The Barn!! Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!

M

Millie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great campsite, really peaceful, beautiful views and great amenities.

O

Olly

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

Had a lovely, welcoming and friendly, and really enjoyed the farm, getting to hold 2 day old ducks and bottle feed baby goats. We'll be back

Q

September 2025

6 m travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Great spot! The field was clean, the views were awesome, and the host was friendly. I’d come back!

I

Issy

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely, small campsite on working farm. Each pitch comes with a fire pit and bbq which is a nice touch. Great cafe on site and food trucks/ street food on certain days. We’ll be back!

C

Craig

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Awesome set up, with thoughtful amenities like BBQ, BBQ utensils, camp fire pit, wood, hammocks, seats, etc. After it rained, we were treated to a wonderful rainbow display. The coffee and pastries in the morning were a treat.

L

Laurence

September 2025

5 m Class B

4 nights at Painters Farm Campsite

We had a wonderful time, the place is beautiful and quiet, away from roads and houses. Vans, campers and tents are well spaced from each other. Everybody very respectful. Facilities are great: shower and loos are immaculate, fire pits available to rent and wood to buy, pub in walking distance, and even home pizzas nights at the weekend. Location is great too, we will definitely be back!

Paul

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wethersfield Eco Project Off grid

Plenty of space where you’re pretty much left to your own devices. Portaloo in close proximity which was immaculate. You can pick your own pitch either in the wood, the field or next to the lake. We absolutely loved it. A great place to sit round the fire pit, listen to music, sink a beer and reminisce the good times. I found it the perfect place to decompress and forget the outside world! Took paddle boards and a kayak for a day down at Paper Mill Lock and it was perfect. Well worth a visit. £5 for all day parking, tea room and ice cream stall. The place was buzzing!! Tim’s land was the perfect base camp. Bravo Tim!!

C

Christine

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

My recent glamping trip in a bell tent was absolutely great, perfectly blending tranquil nature with a comfortable double bed; soft blankets and pillows and the spacious and thoughtfully decorated bell tent ready and waiting for us. We were able to immediately relax and enjoy our surroundings. It was the perfect escape for anyone who has had a long week at work and loves camping with a touch of luxury. The sun was shinning and it was wonderful to lie hammock! I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

S

Simon

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely site, well spaced out pitches, deckchairs, bbqs and picnic tables provided, facilities clean and functional. There’s also a cafe on site and good walks through the woodland to local pubs. My only issue was the background road noise but that can’t be helped given the location. It isn’t loud at all but hearing it does take away that feeling of being out in the countryside a little.

G

Georgia

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Peaceful, lovely field in a great location, good facilities

S

Sophie

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely, wild-looking campsite but super close to London. Great walks nearby and recommend the Jolly Coopers pub for lunch

D

Demi

August 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Earth Camp

really lovely welcome onto the site and friendly hroughout. facilities were nice and clean! loved the coffee van int he morning :)

J

Joe

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Secret Campsite

Our second visit as a family of four. Lovely pitches, lots of space and sounded by nature. Fantastic service from Tim and his team. Lovely clean facilities that are well maintained and looked after.

N

NA

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Daisy May’s Farm

Campsite has lots of space. Farm animals are lovely.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Wildlife-watching campsites in Epping Forest guide

Notable campgrounds

Best for exploring: Debden House Campsite has spacious tent sites with fire pits, electric hook-up for caravans and campervans, and direct access to the forest’s hiking trails.
Best for peace and quiet: Lee Valley Campsite is on the western edge of the forest and has grass pitches with or without electric hook-up, as well as cozy camping pods and tents for hire.
Best for a wild camping experience: Lee Valley Almost Wild Campsite lets you get back to nature, with minimal amenities, quiet woodland tent pitches, and hammocks swinging from the trees.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Epping Forest campsites and caravan sites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Early bookings are essential if you want to visit these times.
Unpowered tent pitches are more likely to be available without a reservation, but it’s still best to call ahead.
You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival.
Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campsite. Some campsites open from May through September, while others stay open year-round.

When to go

Accessible year-round, it’s worth revisiting Epping Forest throughout its changing seasons. Autumn is magical under the colorful canopy of fall foliage, while springtime sees wildlife at its most active and bursts of wildflowers. Visiting on a weekday means you’ll avoid the crowds, but the park’s walking trails are always busy in July-August, as well as during school holidays. Pack sturdy hiking boots if visiting after rainfall, as the forest trails can get muddy.

Know before you go

Epping Forest is on the border of Essex and Hertfordshire, about an hour’s drive north of London.
Central line tubes run to Epping Forest from London, stopping at Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, Hinton Admiral, Lymington, New Milton, Sway, and Totton.
There are about 30 car parks located throughout the park, many of which are pay and display.
Epping Forest Visitor Centres are located at Chingford and High Beach, where you’ll also find restrooms and cafés.
Wild camping and overnight parking are not permitted anywhere within the park. Fires and BBQs are also off-limits, except on private camping and caravan parks.
Epping Forest has several accessible trails, and all car parks are accessible.