Camping in Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve

Name: Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve
Address: Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve
Rating: 4.8445

On the southern borders of the South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve is one of the region’s most visited attractions. Explore 130 hectares of ancient woodlands, where the giant Yew trees and twisted branches create a fairy-tale backdrop. Look out for birds and butterflies as you follow the nature trails—the reserve is home to woodpeckers, buzzards, and many rare butterflies. North of the forest, climb up to the lookout point at Bow Hill for views across the Sussex countryside, and discover the Bronze age barrows (burial mounds) known as the Devil’s Humps.

97% (2.1K) • 2,840 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve

The Barn KT9

1. The Barn KT9

97%

(285)

Chessington, England · 16 units · Tents, Glamping

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

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Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

2. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

96%

(28)

England · 32 units

At Oak Valley Campsite, simplicity and space are part of the charm. Tucked among ancient oaks in the gentle countryside of Pett, East Sussex, this peaceful spot is all about traditional camping. Pitches are generous, grassy, and flat – ideal for tents and campers who like room to breathe. There are hot showers, proper loos, and fresh water on tap. At night, toast marshmallows around a hired fire pit, watch the stars, and enjoy the quiet. Explore local walks, pop down to Winchelsea Beach, or lose a few hours in the pretty streets of Rye, just 15 minutes away. Need to know: - No electric hook-up - Family-friendly & dog-friendly - Fire pits and logs available - Check-in from 2 pm

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Littleton Farm Campsite

3. Littleton Farm Campsite

95%

(28)

Upwaltham, England · 20 units

Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive. A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds. There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park. Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away. In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire. Please note, the site is dog free.

Campfires

Showers

Potable water

The Secret Pondside Pitches

4. The Secret Pondside Pitches

England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

The Secret Pondsite Pitches offers 20 pitches by the water! Located just within the borders of Southdown National Park, between Burgess Hill and Hassocks on the site of working plant Nursery, but pleasantly located just behind it, in the company of nature only. The site is remote, but there is a few walking distance attractions: 1. A private gate into the Ditchling Common. 2. Village of Ditchling-a home to of craftsmen and makers, with beautiful history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period. 3. Pubs, vineyards and other farms-the area is known for it's favourable conditions to grow varieties of grapes perfect for Champag.....oops, not allowed to say it.....for Sparkling Wine! 4. The Beacon-those who love a cycling challenge, The Beacon is a classic and The Secret Pondside Pitches serve as a great starting point to park up, rest up and tackle the hill. Please be quiet and respectful, respect the boundaries of surrounding businesses, watch your babies and pets closely and most importantly-enjoy the natures melody! ____________________________________________________________________________________ This is a working farm, so please arrive with patience and care. More details available via email eastwoodplantmarket@gmail.com or 07309062112

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Far and Away Camping

5. Far and Away Camping

100%

(37)

England · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!

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Hook Farm Campsite

6. Hook Farm Campsite

98%

(210)

East Grinstead, England · 13 units

Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald

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Tomkins Farm

7. Tomkins Farm

96%

(172)

North Chailey, England · 41 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels

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Chalky Downs

8. Chalky Downs

96%

(606)

Brighton, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

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Glassenbury Camping

9. Glassenbury Camping

99%

(69)

Cranbrook, England · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country

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Housedean Farm Campsite

10. Housedean Farm Campsite

98%

(108)

Lewes, England · 4 units

Epic views of the South Downs, and a walker’s paradise, hidden sweetly on the South Downs Way

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Otter Channel Campsite

11. Otter Channel Campsite

95%

(161)

East Sussex, England · 15 units

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

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Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

12. Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

100%

(19)

Fairlight, England · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Reconnect with nature, gently. Welcome to our low-impact, off-grid campsite nestled within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm. Here, a small flock of sheep graze as part of an ongoing project to restore a wildflower meadow. The land is alive with colour, birdsong and butterflies—and you’re invited to experience it at your own peaceful pace. 🌿 Space to breathe Only two pitches are available at any time (up to 8 people per pitch). Each pitch has: Private fire pit overlooking wide countryside views PLEASE NOTE the fire pits are on the top of the field near the woodland edge. Camping area (with views) on the lower slope near the shower and main compost toilet Retreat into the woodland strip at the top of the field—perfect for hammocks, hammock tents, shade in summer, quiet chats and listening to the wind through the trees. There are some hammocks already up for campers to enjoy.. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Add the large group tent, ideal for gatherings, sleeping or simply escaping the heat. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £250 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £20 pppn Make the farm yours..... 🌄 Views worth waking up for: From the fire pits you’ll see far-reaching countryside views, and just a short walk away on Mountain Field or at The Balehouse (Hastings Country Park café) you’ll find truly breathtaking scenes over Rye Bay. Nature is the heartbeat here—bluebells in May, orchard blossoms, butterflies drifting through the herbs, and birdsong that wraps around the woodland. At night, the skies open up to the stars; in the morning, you’ll wake to dew-kissed grass and the first rays of sun. 🧘‍♀️ A slower kind of camping Bring a yoga mat, greet the day on the deck, cook outdoors, walk the cliffs, or unwind under the trees. Gather friends and family for a fire, BBQ, or a giant picnic—this field was made for simple, shared moments. 📌 Practical Notes Working farm: the farmer and WWOOFers are on site in areas separate from camping facilities. Exclusive use refers to the campsite areas, not the entire farm. Please bring your own drinking water.

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Old Litten

13. Old Litten

99%

(70)

Petersfield, England · 1 unit

Nestled atop a serene hill, this idyllic field offers a perfect escape for campers. Blanketed in lush, green grass, the field stretches out under a vast, clear sky, providing panoramic views of the South Downs National Park. Wildflowers in vibrant hues dot the landscape. As the sun goes down, the sky transforms into a canvas of twinkling stars, untouched by city lights. This remote haven, far from the hustle and bustle, is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and a deep connection with nature.

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Potable water

Woodlands Camping

14. Woodlands Camping

97%

(113)

Ropley, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park

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Dogwood Cottage Campsite

15. Dogwood Cottage Campsite

81%

(27)

Rye, England · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Come and meet the chickens and ducks, friendly pygmy goats and miniature shetland pony Dino at Dogwood Camping, a gem in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. We are a small, friendly, family-run campsite set in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect base from which to explore the beaches, castles, ancient woodlands and towns like Rye, Battle and Hastings. Dogwood is in the pretty village of Brede, and is walking distance from two fine country pubs. We are surrounded by stunning countryside where you can take your dog for a short stroll across the fields or go for a long romp through the woods and valleys. Or just sit and relax, listen to the birds and soak up the peace and quiet. We are fortunate to be in a 'dark sky' area, perfect for long, relaxing summer nights around the campfie, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and spotting shooting stars! During the summer our site is a popular spot for families and campers visiting nearby Camber Sands sandy beach and year round we welcome all different types of campervan, motorhome and caravan. We look forward to welcome you to our little slice of paradise. Please note our strict 'no group' policy - we only accept single families, single couple and single campers. No more than 2 adults in any group, even on separate pitches. Please bring your acoustic guitar or similar but, as this is a quiet site, please no radios, stereos or videos unless you're using headphones. The birdsong here is incredible by the way! Very wet weather and winter – please note in the off-season, and if very wet, the camping field is closed to vehicles, replaced instead by semi-hardstanding areas or our summer car-park area. Facilities are open but please be prepared for the vagaries of the weather, leaves, puddles and mud. To change pitch please let us know asap so that we can try if possible to find you another. Apart from the car-park, pitches can get very muddy in prolonged, heavy rain. If you are not prepared for these eventualities please do not book.

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Peacocks Farm Campsite

16. Peacocks Farm Campsite

100%

(4)

England · 19 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A private nature reserve with secluded wild pitches for both tents and campervans. Flushing toilets, hot showers, campfires and a nature rich experience

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Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

17. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%

(14)

Emsworth · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

We are a small, friendly site on a working farm in the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have shepherds huts, bell tents and a land pod in an old sheep paddock, all with private fire pits. We’re surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that can be explored all day, and 10 minutes drive from the sea. We also have a small grass-pitch campsite that opens in the summer for tents and camper vans.

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Painters Farm Campsite

18. Painters Farm Campsite

99%

(45)

Whitstable, England · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Lordington Park Camping

19. Lordington Park Camping

100%

(45)

Chichester · 16 units

Set on glorious parkland in the middle of the South Downs National Park, Lordington Park really is a wonderful countryside escape. A 15 minutes’ drive from Chichester, our rustic camping field has views over rolling countryside. Spectacular sunsets and sunrises can be expected on cloudless days. Escape the hustle and bustle of every day life in our peaceful rural campsite, with spacious grass pitches big enough for you to have lots of private space. Each pitch has a firepit for barbecues, and there is access to composting toilets, a shower block with warm water, and fresh drinking water. Please note there is no electricity on this simple site. Vehicles are not allowed to park on the camping field, but parking is provided a stone’s throw away. Wheelbarrows are provided to help you get your kit from car to tent. Countryside walks and cycle paths lead directly from your pitch. There are several pubs in the local area – the nearest being 10 minutes’ stroll away. We have a tea room on site, open Thursday - Sunday 10am-3pm. Near by local attractions: Goodwood Weald and downland museum West wittering beach Hayling island Portsmouth historic dockyard Chichester festival theatre Arundel castle Cowdray park Various national trust property’s And many more…

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Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

20. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

97%

(122)

Pulborough, England · 56 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Friendly camping and glamping on a Sussex farm, with animals to meet, a pond to swim in, and the South Downs nearby.

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Darren

2 days ago

5 m campervan

Weekend Trip to Glassenbury Camping

Awesome site ! Loads of space, lovely views. Raf has done a fabulous job of the showers and composting toilets - very sturdy and beautifully built, and super super clean. Will definitely be back

Sunrises don't get much better than those at Far and Away Camping

Nicholas

1 week ago

4 m campervan

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Great campsite, easy to get to and good place to chill out.

Teri

1 week ago

4 m rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

2nd visit for me. As a solo camper I feel completely comfortable staying here. If you want to unplug this is the place. It’s peaceful and well managed. Communication with Jayne is always immediate. Highly recommend

Darren

1 week ago

5 m campervan

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Jayne and Mark are fabulous hosts - with a super relaxed site. Camping field is spacious, with simple and clean facilities that’s all you need. This was a second visit - will be back !

Big Top in the glamping field. Use the wheel barrow to ferry your things to the tent

Nicole

1 week ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

We had such a great stay with friends in the bell tents. The campsite is beautiful, peaceful and has great facilities including a kitchen area with a stove and a shower with hot water. The tents are huge, with really comfy beds and Jayne and her husband were so helpful. Highly recommend!

Chris

1 week ago

5 m campervan

With pets

2 nights at Painters Farm Campsite

Second visit, and once again impressed by the site! Toilet block and showers immaculately clean and another wonderful greeting from Karen. Look forward to my next trip!

Lyle

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Otter Channel Campsite

Otter channel is great. It's clean, pretty and all you need for a chill weekend. Katie has installed perfectly adequate facilities for a short stay whilst keeping the place charming. I'd highly recommend once again and will be back

Samuel

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at The Barn KT9

I absolutely loved this peaceful, tucked-away gem! Each pitch is beautifully laid out, nicely separated from the others, and comes equipped with its own dedicated fire pit and barbecue grill. It really feels like a stunning little hidden oasis, yet it remains reasonably accessible. A perfect spot for a tranquil getaway.

chris

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Housedean Farm Campsite

Very clean and well supplied campsite that I have stayed at twice whilst walking the South Downs way

Grant

3 weeks ago

5 m campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Woodlands Camping

Great hidden little gem. Toilet and shower were clean and the area was very relaxing. Will definitely come again.

Christiane

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Schöner ruhiger Platz. Großes schräges Wiesengelände direkt am Wald. Toiletten und Duschen (4Stück) waren sehr sauber.

Sean

3 weeks ago

5 m rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Camp site was clean. Access was easy and host was fantastic. We got to hear the lions roaring and the sky divers in the air.

Becky

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Tomkins Farm

What a superb camping site! We have stayed on lots of sites and this was one of our favourites- huge pitches, clean and plenty of toilets/showers. The local walks and ideas were fab and I can definitely say that I have never stayed on a site with a camel before! The owners and staff were all amazing and nothing was too much trouble for them. Thank you for creating a space and experience for all to enjoy!

Serin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Chalky Downs

Lovely spot, hosts were accomodating of us when we had some requirements. Will definitely be back!

Eryk

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Glassenbury Camping

Wonderful and peaceful. Not a building to be seen across the outstanding views of rolling hills for miles from the campfield. Friendly owners, and simple but clean facilities.

Julian

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Lovely quiet campsite with nice shade and clean facilities.

Serena

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Old Litten

Absolutely gorgeous site with lovely views and a quiet calming feel. Charlotte is a fantastic host and gave us a personal tour of the campsite which is generously large and spacious. The drinking water on site was delicious and the kids loved the swing. We will definitely be back again

Peter

3 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

5 nights at The Barn KT9

Great site. Not many pitches, so felt like we had plenty of space. Nice to have a cafe on site and there was lots to do in the nearby area..

Joel

May 2026

5 m campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tomkins Farm

I loved camping at Tomkin's farm. The site is surrounded by beautiful countryside and there were lots of interesting meadow flowers, insects, birds, and animals to be seen in the area. The llamas, alpacas and bactrian camel were fascinating for the children and the llama behaviour in particular was of deep interest to the girl in our group. The showers and toilet facilities were in good shape and water was good and hot. Signage for drinking water and women's only toilet could be clearer. The footpath to the local pub was easy to follow and the pub itself was good.

Joel

May 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tomkins Farm

The campsite is lovely and situated in beautiful countryside. Facilities are good, although signage around the women's only toilet and the drinking water tap, could be better. The showers are very hot, and the one cold shower was very welcome on the hottest days. It was lovely to walk to see the alpacas, llamas and camel - the latter of whom was very sensibly staying in the shade. The walk to the nearest pub is very pleasant!

Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve camping guide

Tips for snagging a campsite

South Downs campsites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, so reservations are always advised. Plan three to six months in advance for popular sites.
If you do arrive without a reservation, it’s a good idea to secure a pitch first thing in the morning or call ahead, as available spots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation, and many sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival.
Hiking and camping season in the South Downs runs from mid-March through early October, and many campsites close out of season. However, campsites open year-round often offer lower rates in low season.

When to go

Kingley Vale is magnificent in autumn, when fall foliage transforms the forest into a kaleidoscope of colour, while summer visitors flock to see the butterflies. Crowds descend on the reserve in July and August, so get there early to secure a parking spot or choose a quiet weekday out of season if you want the forest to yourself. Allergy sufferers might want to avoid visiting in spring—Yew pollen is notoriously allergenic.

Know before you go

Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve is located within the South Downs National Park, about a 10-minute drive from Chichester. Direct trains run to Chichester from London Waterloo and take 1.5 hours.
Free parking is available at the West Stoke car park, at the south end of Kingley Vale.
Getting around the nature reserve is only possible on foot and uneven terrain means access for wheelchairs is very limited.
All land within the national reserve is privately owned and wild camping is not permitted anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve?

The best time to visit Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve is in autumn, when fall foliage transforms the forest into a kaleidoscope of colour. Summer visitors also flock to see the butterflies. Crowds descend on the reserve in July and August, so it's advisable to get there early to secure a parking spot or choose a quiet weekday out of season if you want the forest to yourself. Allergy sufferers might want to avoid visiting in spring—Yew pollen is notoriously allergenic. The reserve is located within the South Downs National Park, about a 10-minute drive from Chichester.

What can I expect to see at Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve?

At Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve, you can expect to explore 130 hectares of ancient woodlands, where the giant Yew trees and twisted branches create a fairy-tale backdrop. Look out for birds and butterflies as you follow the nature trails—the reserve is home to woodpeckers, buzzards, and many rare butterflies. North of the forest, climb up to the lookout point at Bow Hill for views across the Sussex countryside, and discover the Bronze age barrows (burial mounds) known as the Devil’s Humps. The reserve is one of the region’s most visited attractions.

Are there camping options near Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve?

South Downs campsites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, so reservations are always advised. Plan three to six months in advance for popular sites. If you do arrive without a reservation, it’s a good idea to secure a pitch first thing in the morning or call ahead, as available spots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation, and many sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival. Hiking and camping season in the South Downs runs from mid-March through early October, and many campsites close out of season. However, campsites open year-round often offer lower rates in low season. You can also explore different options for camping near Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve on Hipcamp.

Is wild camping permitted at Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve?

All land within the national reserve is privately owned and wild camping is not permitted anywhere. The reserve is located within the South Downs National Park, about a 10-minute drive from Chichester.