Campsites near Southampton

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Southampton is one of the UK’s busiest passenger ports, with ferries setting sail for France, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Wight. This port town is more than just a travel hub, though—it’s also a buzzing cultural hub filled with shopping centres, museums, restaurants, and great nightlife. Watch the ships come in from the portside Mayflower Park, walk the old city walls up to Bargate, then hit the shops at the Westquay Shopping Centre. Urban camping options are limited, but you’ll find spacious campsites along the River Hamble to the south, as well as in the nearby New Forest National Park.

Southampton is all about the water and always has been. It should come as no surprise then to know that most of its sights and attractions have a watery appeal. If visiting Southampton on a camping holiday, you might like to head for the Seacity Museum, which tells the maritime history of the town, from where the Titanic launched on her ill-fated voyage. You may also want to take a cruise on the Solent or catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight. Although the docks are now a thoroughly modern affair, Southampton old town still offers reminders of times gone by, including the Tudor House and Gardens, which reveals 800 years of history.

Away from the sea, Southampton’s other appeal is its location in the middle of the Hampshire coastline. It’s easily reached from London and just a 30-minute drive from the historic city of Winchester, which is a nice place to visit on a camping holiday. It’s also a gateway to the New Forest National Park, where walking, cycling, and horse-riding opportunities abound. Within the boundaries of the national park, Beaulieu’s country house, gardens, and National Motor Museum are additional popular places to visit.

For families with kids who love theme park rides, Paultons Park which includes Peppa Pig World, is hard to beat. For more information and ideas of things to do on a camping or glamping holiday in Southampton, head to Lyndhurst’s New Forest National Park visitor centre.

95% (1.6K) 4,011 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Southampton

ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest

1. ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest

100%
(42)
11km from Southampton · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly camping on a Hampshire farm, edging the New Forest National Park.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Small Trees Campsite

2. Small Trees Campsite

97%
(38)
13km from Southampton · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Stockbridge View Campsite

3. Stockbridge View Campsite

93%
(91)
23km from Southampton · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Tom's Field (New Forest)

4. Tom's Field (New Forest)

99%
(44)
24km from Southampton · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, family-run camping in the New Forest National Park, brought about by popular demand
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Harry's Meadow

5. Harry's Meadow

97%
(73)
24km from Southampton · 51 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Back-to-basics camping with campfires in a spacious wildflower meadow, set on a beautiful New Forest estate
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)

6. Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)

95%
(151)
25km from Southampton · 40 units
A 28 day August pop-up, offering traditional Hampshire camping on a New Forest Pony farm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Harry's Field New Forest

7. Harry's Field New Forest

92%
(60)
25km from Southampton · 63 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family-friendly, traditional New Forest camping with a pub next door and footpaths leading directly from the gateway
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Croft Cottage Camping

8. Croft Cottage Camping

98%
(80)
25km from Southampton · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Small-time camping with a family-friendly buzz, a walk away from the beautiful New Forest
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Woodlands Camping

9. Woodlands Camping

97%
(104)
26km from Southampton · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

10. Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%
(21)
27km from Southampton · 2 units
Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Glamping Retreat & Campsite

11. Glamping Retreat & Campsite

95%
(10)
29km from Southampton · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Retro Staycations near Ryde on the Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Old Litten

12. Old Litten

99%
(61)
34km from Southampton · 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
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

13. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%
(14)
34km from Southampton · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

14. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%
(20)
34km from Southampton · 3 units
Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ninham Country Holidays

15. Ninham Country Holidays

100%
(38)
34km from Southampton · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A stunning, family-friendly campsite on the stunning, family-friendly Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Lordington Park Camping

16. Lordington Park Camping

100%
(45)
36km from Southampton · 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…
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Maple Field Camping

17. Maple Field Camping

92%
(26)
37km from Southampton · 30 units
Wildflowers, birds and butterflies abound at this traditional tent camping pop-up on the Hampshire-Dorset border
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Spring Hill Wild Camping

18. Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%
(90)
37km from Southampton · 15 units
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas. The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water. If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

19. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

100%
(34)
40km from Southampton · 1 unit
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer. The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay. The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries. Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos. Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable. Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink. The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Quaint Farm in a National Park

20. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(27)
44km from Southampton · 2 units
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.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi

Southampton is one of the UK’s busiest passenger ports, with ferries setting sail for France, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Wight. This port town is more than just a travel hub, though—it’s also a buzzing cultural hub filled with shopping centres, museums, restaurants, and great nightlife. Watch the ships come in from the portside Mayflower Park, walk the old city walls up to Bargate, then hit the shops at the Westquay Shopping Centre. Urban camping options are limited, but you’ll find spacious campsites along the River Hamble to the south, as well as in the nearby New Forest National Park.

Southampton is all about the water and always has been. It should come as no surprise then to know that most of its sights and attractions have a watery appeal. If visiting Southampton on a camping holiday, you might like to head for the Seacity Museum, which tells the maritime history of the town, from where the Titanic launched on her ill-fated voyage. You may also want to take a cruise on the Solent or catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight. Although the docks are now a thoroughly modern affair, Southampton old town still offers reminders of times gone by, including the Tudor House and Gardens, which reveals 800 years of history.

Away from the sea, Southampton’s other appeal is its location in the middle of the Hampshire coastline. It’s easily reached from London and just a 30-minute drive from the historic city of Winchester, which is a nice place to visit on a camping holiday. It’s also a gateway to the New Forest National Park, where walking, cycling, and horse-riding opportunities abound. Within the boundaries of the national park, Beaulieu’s country house, gardens, and National Motor Museum are additional popular places to visit.

For families with kids who love theme park rides, Paultons Park which includes Peppa Pig World, is hard to beat. For more information and ideas of things to do on a camping or glamping holiday in Southampton, head to Lyndhurst’s New Forest National Park visitor centre.

95% (1.6K) 4,011 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Southampton

ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest

1. ShelleyOaks Farm Camping New Forest

100%
(42)
11km from Southampton · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly camping on a Hampshire farm, edging the New Forest National Park.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Small Trees Campsite

2. Small Trees Campsite

97%
(38)
13km from Southampton · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Stockbridge View Campsite

3. Stockbridge View Campsite

93%
(91)
23km from Southampton · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Tom's Field (New Forest)

4. Tom's Field (New Forest)

99%
(44)
24km from Southampton · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, family-run camping in the New Forest National Park, brought about by popular demand
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Harry's Meadow

5. Harry's Meadow

97%
(73)
24km from Southampton · 51 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Back-to-basics camping with campfires in a spacious wildflower meadow, set on a beautiful New Forest estate
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)

6. Muddycreek Farm (New Forest)

95%
(151)
25km from Southampton · 40 units
A 28 day August pop-up, offering traditional Hampshire camping on a New Forest Pony farm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Harry's Field New Forest

7. Harry's Field New Forest

92%
(60)
25km from Southampton · 63 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family-friendly, traditional New Forest camping with a pub next door and footpaths leading directly from the gateway
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Croft Cottage Camping

8. Croft Cottage Camping

98%
(80)
25km from Southampton · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Small-time camping with a family-friendly buzz, a walk away from the beautiful New Forest
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Woodlands Camping

9. Woodlands Camping

97%
(104)
26km from Southampton · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

10. Fernwood Glamping (New Forest)

100%
(21)
27km from Southampton · 2 units
Secluded, peaceful glamping on the edge of the New Forest
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Glamping Retreat & Campsite

11. Glamping Retreat & Campsite

95%
(10)
29km from Southampton · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Retro Staycations near Ryde on the Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Old Litten

12. Old Litten

99%
(61)
34km from Southampton · 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
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

13. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%
(14)
34km from Southampton · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

14. Cholderton Estate, near Stonehenge

90%
(20)
34km from Southampton · 3 units
Quirky accommodation on a 2,500-acre nature-filled estate, just 15 minutes from Stonehenge
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ninham Country Holidays

15. Ninham Country Holidays

100%
(38)
34km from Southampton · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A stunning, family-friendly campsite on the stunning, family-friendly Isle of Wight
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Lordington Park Camping

16. Lordington Park Camping

100%
(45)
36km from Southampton · 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…
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Maple Field Camping

17. Maple Field Camping

92%
(26)
37km from Southampton · 30 units
Wildflowers, birds and butterflies abound at this traditional tent camping pop-up on the Hampshire-Dorset border
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Spring Hill Wild Camping

18. Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%
(90)
37km from Southampton · 15 units
Spring Hill Wild Camping is a camping site set in the beautiful Hampshire village of St Mary Bourne. Within easy walking distance of the two local pubs, the well stocked village shop and a pick-your-own fruit farm with cafe and play areas. The campsite aims to be a low impact, environmentally friendly site, providing only the basic necessities for camping; well maintained toilets and clean water. If you are looking for hot showers and a pool, this is not the campsite for you. If you are looking for beautiful views, countryside walks and open fires Spring Hill Wild Camping is the campsite for you.
Campfires
Potable water
Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

19. Beautiful hideaway, panoramic views

100%
(34)
40km from Southampton · 1 unit
The Shepherd's Hut at Coombe Farm Glamping is only an hour or so from London and within easy reach of Goodwood, Cowdray and the south coast; yet once you're here, you'll feel as if you've stepped through the back of the wardrobe and into the ancient woodland that surrounds, unimpeded views towards the South Downs and barely another soul around. The hut stands alone in the field, so you will exclusively enjoy the tranquility the land has to offer. The Hut is equipped with fresh linen and towels, made extra cozy and warm with a beautiful flame and clean burning bio ethanol burner which creates a relaxed ambience, providing amazing heat for the chillier season stay. The wash area is compact with everything you will need for alfresco catering and dining, including a great camp compressor fridge. We also provide equipment to cook on the ample fire pit for an authentic camp experience. We have a revitalizing, hot and spacious shower, all run from our off grid system. We also provide luxury toiletries. Our loo is composting, extremely clean and freshly set up for every new guest and in keeping with our off grid, low-fi ethos. Our family farm, Durleigh Marsh Farm is in Rogate, 5 min drive from Rake or about an hours walk through the woodland south from the hut. The popular Tea room offers a great breakfast and lunch menu. Booking is advisable. Between the nearby traditional market towns of Petersfield and Haslemere you will discover a diverse choice of places to shop, dine and drink. The site is encompassed by beautiful walks and trails taking you further into the heart of the South Downs.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Quaint Farm in a National Park

20. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(27)
44km from Southampton · 2 units
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.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Southampton camping guide

Where to go

South-West Hampshire

A 10-minute drive west of Southampton, the New Forest National Park has endless options for campers, from family-friendly holiday parks to glamping in the woods. Walking and cycling trails lead the way to wildlife reserves and forest hideaways, and you’re never far from a country pub. To the south, the beach resorts of Barton on Sea and Milford on Sea are a favourite for summer campers.

Isle of Wight

Ferries set sail from Southampton to the Isle of Wight, where rugged sea cliffs and golden sands provide a spectacular backdrop for campers. Hike along the Isle of Wight Coastal Path, marvel at the multi-colored cliffs of Alum Bay, and ride the chairlift over the white chalk rocks of The Needles. Or perhaps time your visit for annual events like the Isle of Wight Festival or Cowes Week yachting festival.

South Downs

North of Southampton, the cathedral city of Winchester sits on the western edge of the South Downs AONB, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride along more than 2,000 miles of trails. Explore the chalk hills and ancient yew forests, trek along part of the South Downs Way, or head down to the coast to admire the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Whether backcountry camping or sleeping in a luxury yurt, plan for a late night—stargazing in this International Dark Sky Reserve is an unmissable experience.

When to go

Southampton is a year-round destination, whether dining alfresco in summer or browsing the Christmas markets in winter. July and August are busiest, with a steady flow of travellers arriving at the port, and it’s best to book ahead if visiting at this time. Time your visit for springtime to enjoy hiking and wildlife spotting in the surrounding AONBs, or head to the New Forest in autumn to admire the colourful fall foliage.

Know before you go

  • Southampton has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
  • Southampton has public transport links to many surrounding towns and attractions, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
  • Most campsites require advance booking. Be sure to check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
  • Wild camping is illegal throughout Hampshire.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best times to visit Southampton are in spring for hiking and wildlife spotting, in summer for alfresco dining, in autumn for admiring the fall foliage in the New Forest, and in winter for browsing the Christmas markets. July and August are the busiest months, so it's best to book ahead if visiting at this time.

If visiting Southampton on a camping holiday, you might like to head for the Seacity Museum, which tells the maritime history of the town, take a cruise on the Solent, catch a ferry to the Isle of Wight, and explore the old town including the Tudor House and Gardens, which reveals 800 years of history. You can also explore different options for camping near Southampton on Hipcamp.

Southampton has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip. You can also explore different options for camping near Southampton on Hipcamp.

Southampton is easily reached from London and just a 30-minute drive from the historic city of Winchester, which is a nice place to visit on a camping holiday. It’s also a gateway to the New Forest National Park, where walking, cycling, and horse-riding opportunities abound. Within the boundaries of the national park, Beaulieu’s country house, gardens, and National Motor Museum are additional popular places to visit. You can also explore different options for camping near Southampton on Hipcamp.

North of Southampton, the cathedral city of Winchester sits on the western edge of the South Downs AONB, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride along more than 2,000 miles of trails. Explore the chalk hills and ancient yew forests, trek along part of the South Downs Way, or head down to the coast to admire the white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters. Whether backcountry camping or sleeping in a luxury yurt, plan for a late night—stargazing in this International Dark Sky Reserve is an unmissable experience. You can also explore different options for camping near Southampton on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field