Best Woodland Camping in East Sussex 2025

Pitch up your tent in the woods of East Sussex—there are over 160 forest campsites to choose from. You’ll find spots where campfires are allowed, pets are welcome, and proper toilets are available. Forest camping here means waking up to birdsong, woodland walks, and the chance to spot deer before breakfast. Prices start at just £15 a night, with an average closer to £100. Want to hear what other campers say? Check out Beech Estate Campsite (67 reviews), Dernwood Farm Wild Camping (38 reviews), or The Secret Campsite (35 reviews). Bring your surfboard for the coast, binoculars for wildlife-watching, or a rod for fishing—East Sussex forests make a solid base for all three. Don’t forget to pack your marshmallows; forest nights here are made for campfires.

96% (249)

Top-rated campgrounds

View of Beech Estate Campsite set in 600 acres of woodland.

Pitch up your tent in the woods of East Sussex—there are over 160 forest campsites to choose from. You’ll find spots where campfires are allowed, pets are welcome, and proper toilets are available. Forest camping here means waking up to birdsong, woodland walks, and the chance to spot deer before breakfast. Prices start at just £15 a night, with an average closer to £100. Want to hear what other campers say? Check out Beech Estate Campsite (67 reviews), Dernwood Farm Wild Camping (38 reviews), or The Secret Campsite (35 reviews). Bring your surfboard for the coast, binoculars for wildlife-watching, or a rod for fishing—East Sussex forests make a solid base for all three. Don’t forget to pack your marshmallows; forest nights here are made for campfires.

96% (249)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Beech Estate Campsite

97%

(185)

57 units · Tents, Glamping · Battle, England

Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway

2. Small Meadow Farm

100%

(18)

3 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Fairlight, England

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 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 £25/night per person 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 & info centre) 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.

3. Dogwood Glamping

90%

(42)

4 units · Glamping · Rye, England

The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats

4. Crockstead Fields Yurts

2 units · Glamping · Horam, England

Crockstead Fields is an eco-friendly boutique campsite tucked away in a secluded field in the East Sussex countryside. Packed with unique features and a range of luxury sleeping options, we are excited to open up our 2023 diary for summer camping expeditions. Within the site you can find hot showers, compost toilets, garden games, multiple seating areas and a fire pit. Our 10 furnished bell tents have been decorated specifically for the site and are a great camping option for those not looking to lug around a tent and bedding. There are some great local pubs and walks and over weekends you can find a working bar, catering options and various other elements in place on the site. Launching the 2023 season we have lined up an opening party weekend on the 26th May featuring plenty of family based fun and a range of camping options now available to book.

5. Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

95%

(65)

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

Camping and glamping in Sussex meadows and woodlands

6. Battle Pods & Bells

100%

(13)

10 units · Glamping · Battle, England

Off grid bell tents and pods in a woodland just outside Battle

7. The Secret Campsite

99%

(91)

21 units · Tents, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

A not so secret campsite in East Sussex with camping and glamping – and campfires encouraged

8. Dogwood Cottage Campsite

81%

(24)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Rye, England

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.

9. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

100%

(14)

32 units · Tents · England

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

10. Earth Camp

90%

(34)

33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.

11. 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.

12. Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

100%

(2)

2 units · Glamping · Rye, England

A unique self catering holiday   in an area of outstanding beauty Near Rye in East Sussex Escape to the peace and tranquility of the secluded countryside We offer a magical experience where you will connect with nature and fully relax. No neighbours, total privacy and uninterrupted views of the Brede valley. We feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful location where we are surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Your experience at Barefoot yurts and Barefoot safari tent will be one that you never forget and be a place you want to come back to again and again, as so many of our guests do. We very much look forward to welcoming you. When you book our self catering Yurts or Our Safari tent you will have the whole site to yourselves. Both are in very private separate locations. Barefoot yurts has been a family business since 2009 Barefoot Yurts has 2 yurts booked together. One a bedroom and the other a sitting room that has sofa beds. There is a log cabin kitchen and shower room which is fully fitted and equipped for most cooking needs with electricity. The compost loo is next to the kitchen exclusive to the yurt guests. Barefoot safari tent is for 2 adults only. All under one roof is the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Off Grid.

13. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

14. The Woodland Wagon

1 unit · Glamping · England

The whimsical and imaginative accommodation you’ll discover at The Woodland Wagon, actually comprises two beautiful wagons, one for sleeping, and one for lying down and looking at the beautiful Rye Bay. …plus, a piano room, a summer house, and a huge tipi style tent that once featured in the film ‘King Arthur’, now a perfect space for private meditation, yoga, or tai chi! Nestled within magical ancient woodland in the sleepy village of Pett, you’ll be surrounded by views of peaceful ‘1066 countryside’, that lead your gaze all the way out to sea. (Seriously, what better location for a blissfully secluded, ultra-romantic break with your loved one?) The first, spacious, wagon is the setting for relaxed open plan studio living and snoozing; furnished with two squishy chairs, a Smart TV, a kitchen and dining area, and a gorgeous kingsize bed that’s ideal for lazy lie-ins. Just a few steps away is a refreshing shower room and separate compost toilet, along with some outdoor seating and a firepit for al fresco enjoyment of your woodland garden – although you could always retreat to the tent for some quiet contemplation, or head across to the piano room and tinkle those ivories! In the mood for a snack? The summer house is home to a commercial pizza oven, while the exquisite 1940’s showman’s wagon is an ideal haven for relaxing vintage-style; equipped with a warming wood-burner to curl up in front of, with a post-pizza tipple nicely in hand.

15. Wyldewood Retreat

100%

(9)

1 unit · Glamping · Horam, East Sussex, South East England

An exclusive-hire glamping site for six people in a Sussex woodland

Camper favorites in and near East Sussex

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Earth Camp

90%

(34)

33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England

We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.

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.

Barefoot yurts and Safari Tent

100%

(2)

2 units · Glamping · Rye, England

A unique self catering holiday   in an area of outstanding beauty Near Rye in East Sussex Escape to the peace and tranquility of the secluded countryside We offer a magical experience where you will connect with nature and fully relax. No neighbours, total privacy and uninterrupted views of the Brede valley. We feel very lucky to live in such a beautiful location where we are surrounded by exceptional natural beauty. Your experience at Barefoot yurts and Barefoot safari tent will be one that you never forget and be a place you want to come back to again and again, as so many of our guests do. We very much look forward to welcoming you. When you book our self catering Yurts or Our Safari tent you will have the whole site to yourselves. Both are in very private separate locations. Barefoot yurts has been a family business since 2009 Barefoot Yurts has 2 yurts booked together. One a bedroom and the other a sitting room that has sofa beds. There is a log cabin kitchen and shower room which is fully fitted and equipped for most cooking needs with electricity. The compost loo is next to the kitchen exclusive to the yurt guests. Barefoot safari tent is for 2 adults only. All under one roof is the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. Off Grid.

Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

1 unit · Glamping · England

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

The Woodland Wagon

1 unit · Glamping · England

The whimsical and imaginative accommodation you’ll discover at The Woodland Wagon, actually comprises two beautiful wagons, one for sleeping, and one for lying down and looking at the beautiful Rye Bay. …plus, a piano room, a summer house, and a huge tipi style tent that once featured in the film ‘King Arthur’, now a perfect space for private meditation, yoga, or tai chi! Nestled within magical ancient woodland in the sleepy village of Pett, you’ll be surrounded by views of peaceful ‘1066 countryside’, that lead your gaze all the way out to sea. (Seriously, what better location for a blissfully secluded, ultra-romantic break with your loved one?) The first, spacious, wagon is the setting for relaxed open plan studio living and snoozing; furnished with two squishy chairs, a Smart TV, a kitchen and dining area, and a gorgeous kingsize bed that’s ideal for lazy lie-ins. Just a few steps away is a refreshing shower room and separate compost toilet, along with some outdoor seating and a firepit for al fresco enjoyment of your woodland garden – although you could always retreat to the tent for some quiet contemplation, or head across to the piano room and tinkle those ivories! In the mood for a snack? The summer house is home to a commercial pizza oven, while the exquisite 1940’s showman’s wagon is an ideal haven for relaxing vintage-style; equipped with a warming wood-burner to curl up in front of, with a post-pizza tipple nicely in hand.

Wyldewood Retreat

100%

(9)

1 unit · Glamping · Horam, East Sussex, South East England

An exclusive-hire glamping site for six people in a Sussex woodland

Stories from the community

C

Chat

October 2025

2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend

G

Gavin

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Lovely peaceful site near to Rye and Winchelsea. Plenty of options for tents. Fire pits and wood available. Good clean toilets with two cosy showers. Friendly owner.

G

Gillian

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Small Meadow Farm

We felt very lucky to be able to stay on Anna’s farm. It’s a beautiful, peaceful place with wonderful views. There’s an orchard and some very pretty sheep! We enjoyed the hammocks in the woods and the firepit. Would definitely recommend.

A

Alexander

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Battle Pods & Bells

It was great for my first trip with my son 11. Everything was exactly as advertised and more. Will definitely be returning next year and will certainly explore more of the 460acres of stunning woodland.

D

Demi

August 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Earth Camp

really lovely welcome onto the site and friendly hroughout. facilities were nice and clean! loved the coffee van int he morning :)

Double faraway tent pitch with wonderful views

C

Charlie

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Beech Estate Campsite

What a brilliant site to camp on, we had a great time over the weekend!

J

Joe

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Secret Campsite

Our second visit as a family of four. Lovely pitches, lots of space and sounded by nature. Fantastic service from Tim and his team. Lovely clean facilities that are well maintained and looked after.

W

Wesley Stuart

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Very hilly but this was a great thing for us as it’s adds to the privacy you have from other campers. Showers were great but toilets needed some work (a couple of the doors were broken). Huge woods surrounding the campsite for lovely walks. Would definitely recommend.

V

Vivien

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

We had a really nice stay at Charles’s campsite. It was well organised with facilities for showering, proper flushing toilets and washing dishes as well as access to a fridge. We rented a fire pit and logs which makes the camping experience even better. It was a relaxed campsite with kids able to run around and make friends. We would stay here again.

K

Kieran

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Our second time here, we love the space, great facilities with clean toilets and showers, a huge fridge to store any food/drinks in. We were lucky to have some great people around us also staying there and plenty of place for the kids to run around and play. Extra bonus now it is dog friendly! The sky at night is so clear, I sat and watched the stars for hours with a fire pit cackling. We will be back again next year.

J

Josh

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beech Estate Campsite

It’s one of the best camp sites I’ve been to and the pitches are in the woods, make a nice change from sitting in someone’s field, plus good shade when it’s hot.

K

Kim

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Dogwood Glamping

We loved the cosy Yurt and the laid back atmosphere a lot! Animals running around the campsite is also a lot of fun, but close the yurt when you are gone or get a visit from the goats that eat what they can find! Phil and his wife were very friendly.

Karolina

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Great place, very spacious, nicely located, and well organised. We will be back! Thank you!

k

kate

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Battle Pods & Bells

Good location. Short walk or drive into Battle. Very well organised and clean camp. Philippa and her husband were welcoming and helpful. We stayed in one of the bells which were comfortable and large enough for two adults and two children.

J

Jennifer

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

Lots of places to pitch and plenty of space. Facilities were clean. Lots of info pre arrival and a friendly welcome. Would recommend and would like to visit again.

D

David

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Earth Camp

Earth Camp was a great place to pitch a tent and relax for a lovely weekend outdoors. The facilities are solid and the pizzas on Saturdays are excellent value for money. Certain parts of the field are a bit sloped, so make sure to arrive early to get the best pick of the pitches!

P

Paris

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Beech Estate Campsite

I loved the place, green everywhere and amazingly clean facilities. My kids and I loved everything.

Cami

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

It was beautiful! Plenty of space to choose, just bare in mind only two showers and toilets per gender so if busy you might need to wait. Overall great experience and will recommend

D

Damir

July 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

We had a great time here. The facilities were faultless and there was a great variety of places to pitch your tent. It is quite hilly and finding a flat pitch isn’t the easiest, but it did mean the views were nice and each area felt secluded.

C

Claire

July 2025

Weekend Trip to Dernwood Farm Wild Camping

Lovely campsite with very comfortable bell tents. Amanda and her team are very friendly and accommodating. We will definitely be back!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Perhaps that’s why it’s one of the UK’s top camping destinations, home to some of the nation’s best camping and glamping sites. It’s within easy reach of London and yet has miles of beautiful countryside including parts of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a large chunk of the South Downs National Park. There are quaint villages and market towns as well as the bright lights of boho Brighton, Hastings and Eastbourne. It’s a county steeped in history with castles, forts and ruins to visit, as well as a string of beaches and family-friendly attractions. Our selection of campsites includes the best places to pitch your tent or park up your caravan, as well as a collection of quirky glamping sites.