The best great views campsites in Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve

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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.

99% (537) 179 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve

The Barn KT9

1. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
Chessington, England · 16 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Old Litten

2. Old Litten

99%
(61)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Chalky Downs

3. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
Brighton, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Lovebrook

4. Lovebrook

97%
(38)
Lewes, England · 6 units
We offer peaceful, back to basics camping on 33 acres of land in the beautiful South Downs village of Kingston. Get back to nature and take in the simple pleasures of the wide-open fields and South Downs views. We have a farm shop and cafe on Saturdays 10-3 as well as Woodiref Sauna sessions from 10-11 & 11-12 and All Levels yoga at 12:30-1:30. There is a great country pub a few steps down the street and we have direct access to the South Downs Way, for amazing hiking and biking. The 6 grassy tent pitches are spread over a large field with composting loo's, a warm shower and a sink with running water, so there’s a firm back-to-basics vibe. We also offer firepits and wood buddles,( Pre-booking only), Perfect for roasting marshmallows! Things to do... Wood-fired Sauna Join us for a Saturday sauna session or drop us a message for private hire and enjoy some real TLC with facemasks, salt scrubs and if you are feeling brave cold plunge pool. Events Join us for one of our retreats or Saturday pop-up events while camping at Lovebrook See our full calendar via the website The local pub The Juggs is our local village pub on The Street, perfect for a bite to eat and a drink in the beer garden The South Downs Way Keep walking up The Street and the lane turns into a public footpath that steeply ascends to join the stunning South Downs Way. We love the app Komoot for findng the perfect trail. Lewes Lewes is lovely for shopping, cafes and mooching about. Take a scenic walk or call a taxi. The standing stone You may have spotted the standing stone on our top field. Feel free to wander up for a panoramic view, and ask us about its story. Get involved... We run a quarter acres market garden with regular volunteer days and wellbeing activities, so you may well see us out on the land, and are welcome to join us. Kingston is a peaceful village, so it’s well-suited to quiet, family-friendly breaks with plenty of birdsong and wildlife. check out our website or Instagram for more information Lovebrook is an ecological community project, so all profits from camping go towards running activities on the land, for underserved or vulnerable groups.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Littleton Farm Campsite

5. Littleton Farm Campsite

94%
(27)
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
Glassenbury Camping

6. Glassenbury Camping

99%
(65)
Cranbrook, England · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Small Meadow Campsite

7. Small Meadow Campsite

100%
(18)
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 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. 🏕️ 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. Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails. 🌟 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers

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.

99% (537) 179 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve

The Barn KT9

1. The Barn KT9

97%
(271)
Chessington, England · 16 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Old Litten

2. Old Litten

99%
(61)
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Chalky Downs

3. Chalky Downs

96%
(605)
Brighton, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Lovebrook

4. Lovebrook

97%
(38)
Lewes, England · 6 units
We offer peaceful, back to basics camping on 33 acres of land in the beautiful South Downs village of Kingston. Get back to nature and take in the simple pleasures of the wide-open fields and South Downs views. We have a farm shop and cafe on Saturdays 10-3 as well as Woodiref Sauna sessions from 10-11 & 11-12 and All Levels yoga at 12:30-1:30. There is a great country pub a few steps down the street and we have direct access to the South Downs Way, for amazing hiking and biking. The 6 grassy tent pitches are spread over a large field with composting loo's, a warm shower and a sink with running water, so there’s a firm back-to-basics vibe. We also offer firepits and wood buddles,( Pre-booking only), Perfect for roasting marshmallows! Things to do... Wood-fired Sauna Join us for a Saturday sauna session or drop us a message for private hire and enjoy some real TLC with facemasks, salt scrubs and if you are feeling brave cold plunge pool. Events Join us for one of our retreats or Saturday pop-up events while camping at Lovebrook See our full calendar via the website The local pub The Juggs is our local village pub on The Street, perfect for a bite to eat and a drink in the beer garden The South Downs Way Keep walking up The Street and the lane turns into a public footpath that steeply ascends to join the stunning South Downs Way. We love the app Komoot for findng the perfect trail. Lewes Lewes is lovely for shopping, cafes and mooching about. Take a scenic walk or call a taxi. The standing stone You may have spotted the standing stone on our top field. Feel free to wander up for a panoramic view, and ask us about its story. Get involved... We run a quarter acres market garden with regular volunteer days and wellbeing activities, so you may well see us out on the land, and are welcome to join us. Kingston is a peaceful village, so it’s well-suited to quiet, family-friendly breaks with plenty of birdsong and wildlife. check out our website or Instagram for more information Lovebrook is an ecological community project, so all profits from camping go towards running activities on the land, for underserved or vulnerable groups.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Littleton Farm Campsite

5. Littleton Farm Campsite

94%
(27)
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
Glassenbury Camping

6. Glassenbury Camping

99%
(65)
Cranbrook, England · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Small Meadow Campsite

7. Small Meadow Campsite

100%
(18)
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 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. 🏕️ 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. Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails. 🌟 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Kingley Vale National Nature Reserve camping guide

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. 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.
  2. 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. 
  3. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation, and many sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival. 
  4. 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.
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field