Shepherd's Huts in New Forest National Park

Miles of open forest, purple heathlands, and ancient woodlands blanket the New Forest National Park, affording plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Walk, cycle, or go horse riding along forested trails; visit attractions such as the National Motor Museum or Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary; and look out for the herds of native New Forest ponies roaming freely in the park. New Forest camping comes with options, whether glamping in a yurt, checking into a family-friendly holiday park, caravanning along the south coast, or waking up to a pony outside the tent. As always, we’ve sidestepped the holiday parks and larger caravan sites and carefully selected our favourite campsites to help you find your perfect pitch, whether that’s a cosy cabin among the trees or a grassy pitch in an open field. Beaulieu, Burley, and Lyndhurst are among the main villages within the park, while Milford on Sea has shingle beaches with views to the Isle of Wight.

Whether you're glamping or camping in the New Forest, your kids will probably thank you. Okay, so they may not actually say thank you (without a prompt), but they are almost guaranteed a good time. Being outside all day long, cooking on the barbecue, and toasting marshmallows on the campfire are all new adventures for children. Add to that the freedom to go exploring and the opportunity of making campsite friends—and you are likely to have some happy children. The novelty of sleeping in a tent means even bed times can be fun and, after all that fresh air, it may not be long before they fall into a contented sleep, leaving the adults to enjoy the campfire for just a little longer.

So how to choose where is best for family camping in the New Forest? If you have young children or babies, you’ll probably be used to checking out whether a campsite has changing facilities but you might also like to choose a pitch that’s a little closer to the toilets in case of night-time wake-up calls. And if you’re glamping, try to find out what provisions are made for little ones—you may be able to leave that travel cot and high chair at home. Bigger sites can offer play equipment and activities for children, but don’t discount the sites without these, as you might find that watching the New Forest ponies and playing field games are enough to keep the kids entertained anyway.

1. Visit Lyndhurst

The largest village in the national park, Lyndhurst and its New Forest Visitor Centre are great places to start your camping trip. This is the place to head for a map and local tips, while the independent shops of the high street are also good for stocking up for picnics and barbecues.

2. Walk in the woods

Heading out on foot is the best way to explore the heather moorland and ancient woodland of the New Forest. There are lots of well-signposted routes, but if you fancy getting further out, seek out Ordnance Survey map OL22. On foot, you’ll have more chances to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife.

3. Spot a deer

If you haven’t had much luck spotting deer in the forest, try the deer-viewing platform near Bolderwood Ornamental Drive. During the summer months, the deer are fed between 12 and 2:30pm, and so, although they are wild, they are less skittish. There’s a car park and the start of some nice walks here too.

4. Check out some impressive trees

You don’t have to be a tree-hugger to be impressed by some of the specimens in the New Forest. Check out the oldest tree—the Knightwood Oak, thought to have passed its 400-year birthday, then gaze up at the tallest trees, including 50-metre redwoods and sequoias, which have their roots in the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive.

5. Spend the day at Beaulieu

The huge Beaulieu country estate in the New Forest has so much going on you could spend a week here! Plenty of its attractions are under cover too, so it is a great day out whatever the weather. Not only can you discover the historic house and gardens, but there’s an old abbey and the National Motor Museum=.

6. Take the kids to see Peppa

Peppa Pig World is a great day out for families with younger kids, giving them the chance to meet TV favourites Peppa and George face-to-face. It’s actually part of the larger Paultons Park, where more than 70 rides and attractions are suitable for all ages.

7. Call in at Buckler's Hard

This ship-building village on the banks of the River Beaulieu is a picturesque spot that has changed little since its days using oak from the forest for Nelson’s ships. Call in to see the waterfront, visit a shipwright’s cottage, and discover Buckler’s Hard village history at the Maritime Museum.

8. Go to the beach

This national park includes a lesser-known 40-mile stretch of coast. Perhaps head for Lepe Country Park to enjoy a combination of great countryside and sea views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight—not to mention nature trails, an adventure play area, and a café.

9. Climb a tree

Where better to climb a tree or build a den than in the New Forest? If you haven’t managed it by the time you’re reading this, it’s time to make up for it during your camping holiday in the New Forest. Or at least let your kids have a go!

10. Go for a bike ride

The gently undulating terrain and quiet roads of the New Forest are perfect for bike riding. It’s a great way to get around, and there are off-road cycle tracks through the woods too, perfect for family-friendly cycling. If you can’t bring a bike, stop by a bike hire spot in a main town like Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst, Fordingbridge, or Burley.

To learn about the New Forest during your camping holiday, campers can visit the New Forest Centre in Lymington. But a little background always helps (and gives you the chance to be knowledgeable en route to your campsite).

Although there is evidence of Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman settlements before William the Conqueror declared the area his “nova foresta” (new hunting forest) in 1079, this is what gave the area its name and shaped the landscape. A system of “commoners’ rights” was set up and remains now, almost 1,000 years later, allowing some locals the right to graze their livestock on the land.

By the 18th century, the forest was used more for its timber than as a hunting ground, and wood from the New Forest was used to build ships. The Second World War also helped shape the landscape, with memorials commemorating several RAF airfields including at Stoney Cross. Since then, tourism has become the main business, which is carefully balanced with protecting this historic landscape. The New Forest was recognised as a National Nature Reserve in 1969 and was only given national park status in 2005.

97% (269)

Top-rated campgrounds

Miles of open forest, purple heathlands, and ancient woodlands blanket the New Forest National Park, affording plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Walk, cycle, or go horse riding along forested trails; visit attractions such as the National Motor Museum or Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary; and look out for the herds of native New Forest ponies roaming freely in the park. New Forest camping comes with options, whether glamping in a yurt, checking into a family-friendly holiday park, caravanning along the south coast, or waking up to a pony outside the tent. As always, we’ve sidestepped the holiday parks and larger caravan sites and carefully selected our favourite campsites to help you find your perfect pitch, whether that’s a cosy cabin among the trees or a grassy pitch in an open field. Beaulieu, Burley, and Lyndhurst are among the main villages within the park, while Milford on Sea has shingle beaches with views to the Isle of Wight.

Whether you're glamping or camping in the New Forest, your kids will probably thank you. Okay, so they may not actually say thank you (without a prompt), but they are almost guaranteed a good time. Being outside all day long, cooking on the barbecue, and toasting marshmallows on the campfire are all new adventures for children. Add to that the freedom to go exploring and the opportunity of making campsite friends—and you are likely to have some happy children. The novelty of sleeping in a tent means even bed times can be fun and, after all that fresh air, it may not be long before they fall into a contented sleep, leaving the adults to enjoy the campfire for just a little longer.

So how to choose where is best for family camping in the New Forest? If you have young children or babies, you’ll probably be used to checking out whether a campsite has changing facilities but you might also like to choose a pitch that’s a little closer to the toilets in case of night-time wake-up calls. And if you’re glamping, try to find out what provisions are made for little ones—you may be able to leave that travel cot and high chair at home. Bigger sites can offer play equipment and activities for children, but don’t discount the sites without these, as you might find that watching the New Forest ponies and playing field games are enough to keep the kids entertained anyway.

1. Visit Lyndhurst

The largest village in the national park, Lyndhurst and its New Forest Visitor Centre are great places to start your camping trip. This is the place to head for a map and local tips, while the independent shops of the high street are also good for stocking up for picnics and barbecues.

2. Walk in the woods

Heading out on foot is the best way to explore the heather moorland and ancient woodland of the New Forest. There are lots of well-signposted routes, but if you fancy getting further out, seek out Ordnance Survey map OL22. On foot, you’ll have more chances to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife.

3. Spot a deer

If you haven’t had much luck spotting deer in the forest, try the deer-viewing platform near Bolderwood Ornamental Drive. During the summer months, the deer are fed between 12 and 2:30pm, and so, although they are wild, they are less skittish. There’s a car park and the start of some nice walks here too.

4. Check out some impressive trees

You don’t have to be a tree-hugger to be impressed by some of the specimens in the New Forest. Check out the oldest tree—the Knightwood Oak, thought to have passed its 400-year birthday, then gaze up at the tallest trees, including 50-metre redwoods and sequoias, which have their roots in the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive.

5. Spend the day at Beaulieu

The huge Beaulieu country estate in the New Forest has so much going on you could spend a week here! Plenty of its attractions are under cover too, so it is a great day out whatever the weather. Not only can you discover the historic house and gardens, but there’s an old abbey and the National Motor Museum=.

6. Take the kids to see Peppa

Peppa Pig World is a great day out for families with younger kids, giving them the chance to meet TV favourites Peppa and George face-to-face. It’s actually part of the larger Paultons Park, where more than 70 rides and attractions are suitable for all ages.

7. Call in at Buckler's Hard

This ship-building village on the banks of the River Beaulieu is a picturesque spot that has changed little since its days using oak from the forest for Nelson’s ships. Call in to see the waterfront, visit a shipwright’s cottage, and discover Buckler’s Hard village history at the Maritime Museum.

8. Go to the beach

This national park includes a lesser-known 40-mile stretch of coast. Perhaps head for Lepe Country Park to enjoy a combination of great countryside and sea views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight—not to mention nature trails, an adventure play area, and a café.

9. Climb a tree

Where better to climb a tree or build a den than in the New Forest? If you haven’t managed it by the time you’re reading this, it’s time to make up for it during your camping holiday in the New Forest. Or at least let your kids have a go!

10. Go for a bike ride

The gently undulating terrain and quiet roads of the New Forest are perfect for bike riding. It’s a great way to get around, and there are off-road cycle tracks through the woods too, perfect for family-friendly cycling. If you can’t bring a bike, stop by a bike hire spot in a main town like Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst, Fordingbridge, or Burley.

To learn about the New Forest during your camping holiday, campers can visit the New Forest Centre in Lymington. But a little background always helps (and gives you the chance to be knowledgeable en route to your campsite).

Although there is evidence of Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Roman settlements before William the Conqueror declared the area his “nova foresta” (new hunting forest) in 1079, this is what gave the area its name and shaped the landscape. A system of “commoners’ rights” was set up and remains now, almost 1,000 years later, allowing some locals the right to graze their livestock on the land.

By the 18th century, the forest was used more for its timber than as a hunting ground, and wood from the New Forest was used to build ships. The Second World War also helped shape the landscape, with memorials commemorating several RAF airfields including at Stoney Cross. Since then, tourism has become the main business, which is carefully balanced with protecting this historic landscape. The New Forest was recognised as a National Nature Reserve in 1969 and was only given national park status in 2005.

97% (269)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%

(58)

1 unit · Glamping · Berkshire, South East England

A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.

2. Farrs Meadow

96%

(141)

31 units · Tents, Glamping · Dorset, South West England

A charming Dorset campsite overlooking the Stour Valley and a short walk from both the river and the market town of Wimborne Minster

3. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%

(14)

9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Emsworth, West Sussex

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.

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%

(26)

2 units · Glamping · Liphook, England

Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way. Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.

Romantic Country Glamping

91%

(11)

2 units · Glamping · Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire, South West England

A pair of self-contained glamping getaways in Wiltshire

Oakhill Ponds

96%

(13)

8 units · Glamping · Somerset, South West England

A uniquely peaceful Somerset glamping site set around two ponds in its own beautiful wildlife garden.

The Burrow at Little Buckholt

100%

(3)

1 unit · Glamping · Salisbury, Wiltshire, South West England

The Burrow is a luxury off-grid getaway, situated in a quiet spot on our 55-acre family farm. The perfect place to turn off your phone and reconnect with nature. A bespoke shepherd’s hut with artisan features. A king-size bed, modern log burner, solar-run with USB charging, hand crafted kitchen with fridge/freezer, en-suite hot shower and composting loo. Enjoy relaxing on your sun deck with gorgeous views of the farm and surrounding woods, with the option of internal or outside dining. Surrounding Area: Located on the Hampshire/Wiltshire border, there are brilliant walks on your doorstep. The Clarendon Way and Monarch's Way walking routes are next to the farm and lead onto Broughton Down and Bentley Woods. The Iron Age hill fort of Danbury with beautiful hillside walks is a short drive away and is located next to the charming town of Stockbridge with perfect food, coffee and shopping options. The Burrow is perfectly situated near the historical market towns and city’s of Romsey, Salisbury, Winchester as well as the historical Stonehenge and The New forest all within 30 minutes drive. As a family we have been working this land since 1953 and from time to time you may hear your firewood being split in the yard or a tractor chugging by. You may also see smoke signals on occasion from the kiln producing a fresh batch of locally sourced sustainable charcoal! We hope you’ll find this gives you an even more authentic farm experience! Included in your stay: Kitchen with gas hob and fridge/freezer Frying pan, sauce pans dining and glassware Salt, Pepper Tea, Coffee Tea Towels Washing up liquid Kettle Bed Linen and Egyptian Cotton Towels Shampoo/Conditioner/Shower Gel/Hand wash Wood, Kindling and Fire Lighters for Log Burner. Blankets Extras: Additional logs and kindling at £5 a bag Breakfast, Cheese and Smoothie box’s are available to order in advance. Price start at £18 Private Yoga session from £45

At Goathill Farm

100%

(7)

1 unit · Glamping · Dorset, South West England

A lovely lakeside shepherd’s hut on a working farm in Dorset

Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · New Forest, England

Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest

Miller's Huts Dorset

100%

(2)

2 units · Glamping · Shaftesbury, England

Come and stay in glorious Dorset in one of our charming shepherd's huts - Miller's and John's both with millpond views. Situated at a working organic stoneground flour mill we are within walking distance of the historic hilltop town of Shaftesbury, famous for Gold Hill and that Hovis ad.

Stories from the community

R

Rachel

October 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

We had the most wonderful stay at this little countryside getaway! From the moment we arrived, Jane was absolutely incredible - so kind, welcoming, and full of helpful information about the lodge and surrounding area. She’d thought of everything, leaving clear instructions for how everything worked, which made our stay effortless and relaxing. The thoughtful touches really made it special - from the freshly baked bread to the delicious shortbread cookies, everything felt homely and made with love. The setting itself was pure peace and quiet, surrounded by nothing but cows, trees, and the soft sounds of nature. It was the perfect place to switch off, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the calm of the countryside. We honestly didn’t want to leave - a hidden gem that we’d return to in a heartbeat!

R

Richard

October 2025

2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

Off grid, basic and rustic shepards hut. Very relaxing, and comfortable, Excellent communication from Alice on finding the feild and lots of good information about the local area. Really enjoyed my time here.

E

Eren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My girlfriend and I had a lovely stay at Little Fleece to celebrate her birthday. The hot tub was lovely and we made some great pizzas using the pizza oven. Jane and Dave were brilliant hosts - it was lovey to meet you both! The homemade bread and biscuits were a lovely touch. Thank you!

T

Tim

September 2025

1 night at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

What a beautiful spot. Lovely little cabin. Everything worked as expected. Hot tub was AMAZING! Pizza oven worked a treat. Loads of wood supplied. Jane and Dave were so kind and accommodating. Just wish we had more time there!

A view of the hut from one of the surrounding footpaths.

E

Emily

September 2025

1 night at Quaint Farm in a National Park

Matt met us on arrival and helped carry our bags to the The Shepherds Hut which is well fitted out , nicely decorated , lovely and clean, and well equipped. Nice hot shower and towel rail. Electric fire and also a log burner should you need it for the cold weather,The bed was so so comfy and the oat biscuits and eggs were delicious !! All windows had lovely views. Ivan & Sylvia S xxx

m

marty

September 2025

3 nights at At Goathill Farm

Great quiet, scenic site on the side of a lake, just idyllic. Had a wonderful time de-stressing and will definitely be back.

I

Imogen

August 2025

1 night at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

The shepherds hut was amazing, Jane’s attention detail was fantastic, she had baked bread and shortbread. The hut is in amazing condition and surrounded by beautiful scenery. Highly recommend!

B

Barnaby

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Quaint Farm in a National Park

Really lovely stay, absolutely nothing bad to say. Highly recommend!

M

August 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My partner and I had an incredible stay at Little Fleece. It had everything we needed, set in such a peaceful and relaxing environment 🙌🏽

C

Cameron

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Quaint Farm in a National Park

We loved our stay at the hut - it was perfect! Being surrounded by the beautiful scenery at the back of the farm and waking up to the incredibly friendly sheep and horses was so nice. The hut itself is really cozy, lovingly decorated and has everything you need in it. We would love come and stay again!

B

Beth

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

Amazing stay, a great lil escape out of London. Such a relaxing space, has everything you need and also such wonderful hosts!

B

Barb

August 2025

2 nights at Quaint Farm in a National Park

Super nice shepherd’s hut! Loved the animals nearby too.

J

Jon

August 2025

2 nights at Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

The location felt magical, secluded and tranquil. The cabin and amenities were done really thoughtfully and the surrounding countryside is beautiful. I’ll be back for sure.

N

NICHOLA

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fallow Coombe Glamping

We — two adults, a teenager, and our dog — had a fantastic weekend at Fallow Coombe Glamping. We had the whole site to ourselves, enjoying all the charm of camping with the bonus of luxurious touches such as an incredibly comfortable bed and a powerful shower. The space was thoughtfully arranged, spotlessly clean, and Alice had added so many considerate details that made us feel truly looked after. Thank you.

R

Rezaur Rahman

August 2025

4 nights at Quaint Farm in a National Park

We had such a wonderful stay in the shepherd’s hut! Mandy greeted us when we arrived and kindly showed us to our hut, which was tucked away in a very private and peaceful spot. The hut itself was spotless, cosy, and welcoming. We were pleasantly surprised to find oat flip biscuits waiting for us, along with coffee pods and milk — such a thoughtful touch. At night, the skies were incredible, and we loved sitting outside stargazing in complete tranquillity. One of the highlights was meeting Timmy and Otto, the resident sheep. Timmy in particular is such a character — he loves a scratch under the chin and made us smile every day. Throughout our stay we didn’t have a single disturbance — it was just pure peace and relaxation. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a quiet, charming getaway with a touch of nature and plenty of comfort. We can’t wait to come back!

E

Elizabeth

August 2025

2 nights at Fallow Coombe Glamping

Lovely spot, really private, good bed and bedding and the bath was a treat. If the hot tap on the bath goes cold just turn it off and on again. It is close to a (small, not busy) road but that was only small downside.

F

Fiona

July 2025

3 nights at Quaint Farm in a National Park

A superb find! We were totally delighted with every aspect of our stay at Matt and Mandy's exquisitely located shepherd's hut. A warm welcome and practically instantaneous communication made things feel really relaxed and easy. Peace and quiet and abundant wildlife, this place is somewhere that will hold some lovely memories. Thank you 😊

H

Helen

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

Lovely weekend at the Hampshire hut at Sindles farm. Had a view of the maize fields, lovely walks on the door step. Stansted House and garden centre a short walk away. Chichester and wittering Beach a short drive away. Laura’s communication was great, so it was easy to find. The bathrooms were super clean too.

D

Danilo

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Quaint Farm in a National Park

Such a great place, Matt is really friendly too. Highly recommended

A

Adrian

June 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

This is an idyllic spot - the camp itself is well equipped, well run and private with stunning views. The surrounding area is beautiful and we even made a short hop to the beach at West Wittering.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Shepherd's Huts in New Forest National Park guide

Tips for snagging a campsite

New 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—popular holiday parks and glamping sites can book up six months in advance.
If you do arrive without a reservation, it’s a good idea to secure a campsite first thing in the morning, 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 some sites ask for the full payment upfront.
Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campsite. Many campsites open from March or April to September or October, while others stay open year-round.

When to go

Bluebells in spring, cool shade in summer, crunchy leaves in autumn, and a wonderland in winter, the New Forest manages to be a genuine year-round destination with abundant natural beauty whenever you choose to visit. Summer is peak season, and the park’s beaches and walking trails can get crowded in July and August. Arrive early at popular attractions to avoid the queues and book activities in advance to avoid disappointment. The forest landscapes change throughout the seasons, and many campers choose to return at different times of the year. Come in spring to admire the bluebells and other wildflowers, in autumn when the woodlands are ablaze with fall foliage, or wrap up warm for frosty winter walks.

Know before you go

New Forest National Park is in Hampshire, along England’s south coast, about a 15-minute drive from Southampton or Bournemouth, or a roughly 2-hour drive from London.
Trains from London Waterloo take 90 minutes, and there are eight train stations in the park: Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, Hinton Admiral, Lymington, New Milton, Sway, and Totton.
There are more than 150 car parks in the New Forest, many of which are free. Parking is not permitted anywhere other than in the car parks. Regular buses connect all the villages and attractions in the park, and there’s a hop-on-hop-off New Forest Tour Bus in July and August.
Wild camping and overnight parking are not permitted anywhere within the park. Fires and BBQs are also off-limits, except on private camping lands and caravan parks.
Many small towns and villages dot the park, so you’re never far from a shop, pub, or information point.
The New Forest has many accessible trails and attractions. All park buses and trains are accessible, and there are accessible restrooms in more than 20 car parks.
The New Forest has free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and cattle. These animals have the right of way on forest roads, and there is a strict speed limit of 40 mph throughout. It is a fineable offence to feed any animals in the park.