Riverside Camping in Kent Downs AONB

Camping along the river in Kent Downs AONB means trading city noise for the rush of water and birdsong. With over 190 riverside sites, you’ll find spots where you can cast a line, watch herons at dawn, or set off on hiking trails straight from your pitch. Expect campfires, pet-friendly rules, and hot showers—no need to rough it. Kent Downs draws wildlife watchers and anglers, but it’s just as good for a lazy afternoon by the water, book in hand. Top picks? Try The Barn KT9 (111 reviews), Otter Channel Campsite (83 reviews), or The Slips (50 reviews). Prices start at £12, with the average night around £44. Bring your own kit or just a good pair of boots—Kent Downs’ riverside campsites do the rest.

94% (477)

Top-rated campgrounds

Camping along the river in Kent Downs AONB means trading city noise for the rush of water and birdsong. With over 190 riverside sites, you’ll find spots where you can cast a line, watch herons at dawn, or set off on hiking trails straight from your pitch. Expect campfires, pet-friendly rules, and hot showers—no need to rough it. Kent Downs draws wildlife watchers and anglers, but it’s just as good for a lazy afternoon by the water, book in hand. Top picks? Try The Barn KT9 (111 reviews), Otter Channel Campsite (83 reviews), or The Slips (50 reviews). Prices start at £12, with the average night around £44. Bring your own kit or just a good pair of boots—Kent Downs’ riverside campsites do the rest.

94% (477)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(71)

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 Slips

91%

(85)

39 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Henfield, England

A relaxed, back-to-basics campsite in the West Sussex countryside

3. 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

4. Allington Lock Campsite

100%

(3)

10 units · Tents, Glamping · England

Set beside a peaceful river, this family-friendly campsite offers a simple, nature-filled getaway. Pitch your own tent on one of our 8 non-electric grass pitches, or make yourself at home in one of our two cosy Scandinavian-style softwood cabins, each sleeping up to 4. Please note: guests staying in cabins will need to bring their own bed linen. Onsite facilities include: Riverside setting for a tranquil stay Hot showers and toilets Covered eating area with BBQs Cabins with electricity (for charging devices only) Parking for 1 car per booking (£5 per night) Dogs welcome Onsite CCTV and security barriers

5. The Meadow @ Waples Mill

95%

(40)

12 units · Tents · Dunmow, England

Spacious grass pitches in the green Essex countryside A 15-minute drive to Chelmsford; 40 minutes to Audley End Tractor rides on site; firepits provided for campfires. Rural walks, How about proper farm activities like tractor rides (ask site staff for details)? The place to find all this is The Meadow at Waples Mill, an Essex farm site between Chelmsford and Dunmow (and about 15 minutes’ drive from both). This family-friendly site is handy for walks on the Essex Way and other local footpaths, and tractor and trailer rides around the farm are organised on alternate days to give guests a glimpse into agricultural life. Activities complete for the day, it's time to chill out, and that should be easy here – all pitches have access to toilets and hot showers in a trailer close by, and firepits are provided so you can have a safe campfire (with wood available to buy on site and a great farm shop 10 minutes’ drive away for fireside snacks). Pitches themselves are large (please note only one tent per pitch is allowed), well kept and well spaced within a meadow that backs onto the River Roding. Dogs are welcome, and there are plenty of places to take them for a walk nearby. London folk looking for a quick escape to the countryside, this is a place to bear in mind – it’s only about an hour and quarter by road from the city.

6. Wonderland Festival Retreat

100%

(6)

2 units · Glamping · Henfield, England

Glamping by the lake with an optional sauna and hot tub

7. Hale Farm

100%

(152)

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

A family-run, working farm in East Sussex offering spacious, traditional camping with no set pitches

8. 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.

9. The Sunset Tree

96%

(34)

30 units · Tents, Glamping · West Sussex, South East England

A sociable, tents-only, pop-up campsite, with a good village pub and playground on the doorstep

10. Otter Channel Campsite

95%

(159)

18 units · Tents · East Sussex, South East England

Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother

11. 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.

12. Stone Pit Meadows

100%

(8)

5 units · Glamping · Sandhurst, England

Bell tent and shepherd's hut glamping in a wild and luscious space, 5 minutes from Bodiam Castle.

13. Woolton Farm

87%

(19)

24 units · Tents, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Camping pitches and bell tents on an apple farm in Kent

14. Secluded AONB group glamping

100%

(5)

1 unit · Glamping · Battle, England

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 in and near Kent Downs AONB

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Otter Channel Campsite

95%

(159)

18 units · Tents · East Sussex, South East England

Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother

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.

Stone Pit Meadows

100%

(8)

5 units · Glamping · Sandhurst, England

Bell tent and shepherd's hut glamping in a wild and luscious space, 5 minutes from Bodiam Castle.

Woolton Farm

87%

(19)

24 units · Tents, Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Camping pitches and bell tents on an apple farm in Kent

Secluded AONB group glamping

100%

(5)

1 unit · Glamping · Battle, England

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.

Stories from the community

A

Abigail

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Allington Lock Campsite

While the facilities are basic they are perfect as a base for exploring a truly picturesque part of Kent. We had an amazing time and really loved being able to bring our puppy along for the holiday!

L

Liam

October 2025

With pets

1 night at Allington Lock Campsite

Easy check-in, lovely area, nice guy, comfy cabin.

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.

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.

G

Greg

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Meadow @ Waples Mill

Martin was a great host! Welcomed us upon arrival and was very relaxed about where we could pitch up. The campsite is a hidden gem! Peaceful location. Perfect for our festival weekend in Chelmsford! Campsite has many toilets and heated showers. Would stay here again!

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!!

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

K

Kerry

August 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at The Barn KT9

Outstanding oasis of calm not far from Chessington and London. Great facilities - showers, loos and soap etc. We did BYO and loved the tranquility of Pitch 3. Cafe and food trucks are there for ease but note opening times (not around for the evening), both were great. Charlie is a great host and responded to my questions via Hipcamp promptly. Will definitely come back to this beautiful setting with the kids again.

E

Elspeth

August 2025

7 m Class A

Weekend Trip to The Slips

This is a beautiful area and we have stayed at The Slips before.

J

James

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

We loved our stay here! It’s our first time camping and it was perfect, we stayed with our 3 year old son and he had a great time. Couple of pubs in walking distance and a great coffee hut on site with good pastries and cakes! Would definitely recommend!!

M

Maria

August 2025

7 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Slips

Very relaxed campsite, lots of space and good facilities as advertised! Thanks for a lovely stay!

N

Nicholas

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at The Barn KT9

Everything you could ask for on site and great communication before I got there. I stayed for 2 nights as a midweek escape. I rode out from central London with all my gear on the bike, spent the next day exploring on my gravel bike and packed up and rode back. Brilliant place for a little reset.

D

David

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Hale Farm

Lovely place to camp - nice open space and there was a tree the kids really enjoyed climbing and decorating with our camping lights! Really nice to have farm animals on site too. Great location to visit Eastbourne.