Waterside camping in Moors Valley County Park and Forest

Forest-themed fun is the name of the game in Moors Valley County Park and Forest, which lies along the Moors River. Walk, cycle, or ride a Segway around miles of leafy trails, go fishing at Moors Lake, or relax and admire the views on the Moors Valley steam railway. Woodland playgrounds will keep the younger members of the family entertained, but there’s plenty of entertainment for adults too, including Go Ape Treetop adventure courses, a bike park, and an 18-hole golf course. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside or stop by the park café for afternoon tea.

• Best for peace and quiet: Back of Beyond has grass pitches, hard-standing, glamping options, and wild camping in the woods. It’s adults-only, plus there’s a dog park and lake. 
• Best for a family camping holiday: Red Shoot Camping Park is less than a 20-minute drive, within the New Forest National Park, and has self-catering huts, kids’ play areas, and a family pub right next door.
• Best for riverside camping: Woolsbridge Manor Farm has spacious tent and caravan pitches, all within walking distance of the park.

1. Campsites and caravan sites near Moor Valley can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Early bookings are essential—up six months in advance for the most popular sites.
2. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival. 
3. Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campsite. Many campsites open from March through October only.

Summer is peak season, but Moors Valley fills up with families on weekends and school holidays throughout the year. Make an early start if visiting at these times and book activities in advance to avoid disappointment. Walking and cycling are possible year-round, but other activities depend on the season. The steam railway runs from May through early September, while fishing on the lake is permitted from June through March. 

• Moors Valley County Park and Forest is located in Hampshire, just west of the New Forest National Park. It’s about a 20-minute drive or bus ride from Bournemouth.
• You can explore the park on foot or rent a bike.
• The park has a café, kiosk, gift shop, and Visitor Centre.
• Moors Valley has several accessible trails, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters available to hire.