Best camping, glamping, and outdoor stays in Folkestone

·

For a seaside holiday in Kent, how about camping in Folkestone? This coastal town, just an hour out of London by train, is a great place for a week or a weekend away. The beaches are the main draw in summer but there’s also a delightful cobbled old high street of independent shops and art galleries as well as a harbour arm that’s lined with quirky places to eat and drink. It’s got a Victorian promenade and bandstand and there are some fantastic tourist attractions in almost every direction from Canterbury Cathedral to Dover Castle and the closer-than-you-think shores of France. Stay on one of the campsites in Folkestone or the countryside around it and you’ll have easy access to all this as well as fine views and great walks. Every type of camper is catered for here. There are plenty of old-school caravan sites hugging or even hogging the coastline but look a little harder, or simply browse our collection, to find Folkestone camping and glamping sites with a little of the "je ne sais quoi" that makes a campsite cool.

Folkestone has a range of beaches to choose from if you’re in town for a paddle. For sand underfoot head to the hopefully-named Sunny Sands beach at low tide. But if the gently shelving sands of this popular beach are too busy, there’s a huge shingle expanse on the, perhaps ironically-named, Sandgate side of town. If you prefer the wilder side of the shore there’s always The Warren which hides in the shadow of the town’s East Cliff and looks towards Dover and the nature reserve at Samphire Hoe. An exploration of the town’s other highlights might include a wander along the Harbour Arm, a mosey up the Old High Street and in to the town museum and a stroll along The Leas cliff-top promenade. Families might like the Lower Leas Coastal Park and, further afield, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway with its tiny trains. Dover with its mighty castle is just a few miles away and historic Canterbury is well within reach too.

More than just a Euro Tunnel stop, the seaside town of Folkestone in Kent has a pretty fishing harbour, public gardens and a clutch of decent independent shops. More importantly, Folkestone is is on the edge of the Kent Downs AONB making the local landscapes a boon for campers. As always, only the very best Folkestone campsites make the cut for our shortlist, so you can be sure of a special camping stay.
97% (1.1K) 2,013 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Folkestone

Greenhill Glamping

1. Greenhill Glamping

100%
(31)
5.5km from Folkestone · 1 unit
Impeccably restored huts from the late 19th-century, kitted out for couples with king-sized beds, wood-burning stoves and views over the Kent Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Elham Treehouse

2. Elham Treehouse

100%
(29)
9.5km from Folkestone · 2 units
Rustic glamping in the Kent countryside between Folkestone and Canterbury
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
Coxhill Camping

3. Coxhill Camping

100%
(55)
11km from Folkestone · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Relaxed camping in a field close to Dover and Canterbury
Pets
Campfires
Showers
The Sunnyfield Campsite

4. The Sunnyfield Campsite

95%
(111)
12km from Folkestone · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Knowler Farm Wild Camping

5. Knowler Farm Wild Camping

98%
(47)
12km from Folkestone · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
We are a family friendly site and have something for everyone! Offering Wild Camping and bespoke and unique Glamping stays! On site Cafe, serving hot and cold food, fresh coffee and delicious homemade cakes. open 7 days a week! Friendly Farm animals including miniture shetland ponies who you can book to spend time with and even take for a walk! Our very own Double Decker bus, hosting bookable weekend toddlers play and craft workshops. On-site Gym- fully kitted out with all the equiptment required for a full holiday workout! Classes and Personal training sessions also available! Bush-Craft, Archery and Forrest School weekend workshops including Den building, woodland crafts and more, delivered by our qualified and friendly staff. Friday night Wood-fired Pizza (available to Pre-Order) Throughout the Summer, we host a variety of events such as Family Festivals, Wellness and Well-being retreats, gig nights and workshops. Check out our socails to see what's coming up next!
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Berty the yurty

6. Berty the yurty

95%
(19)
24km from Folkestone · 1 unit
Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

7. Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

96%
(137)
26km from Folkestone · 24 units · Tents, Glamping
Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury
Pets
Showers
Potable water
The Hut @ Bride Farm

8. The Hut @ Bride Farm

100%
(10)
26km from Folkestone · 1 unit
A luxury octagonal hut with a wood-fired hot tub, close to Sandwich and the Kent coast
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
Chapter Farm Camping

9. Chapter Farm Camping

100%
(23)
27km from Folkestone · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Family-friendly camping in a quiet countryside setting close to the beach at Whitstable
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

10. Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

96%
(25)
31km from Folkestone · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping has just a few tiny pitches but the folk here keep the grass trimmed for easy pitching and you can park right next to the pitch. It's a tiny Wild Camping site with no running water, toilets or showers. What Noakes Meadow does have is plenty of space for you to enjoy and camp fires are definitely allowed. A wheelbarrow of fire wood can be purchased for £10 Cash/Paypal/Bank Transfer on arrival. This site is far away from the madding crowds though close to the M20 and A20 for easy access. A mere 10-minute stroll along the road is a fab 16th-century country inn for food and pints. On the other hand you could always fire up a barbie and sizzle some sausages or grab a take away from the chippie 7 minutes away in the nearby village of Lenham. This wild camping site operates a leave no trace policy so be prepared to bag up and take everything with you when you leave.
Pets
Campfires
Painters Farm Campsite

11. Painters Farm Campsite

99%
(47)
32km from Folkestone · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nestled beside the village of Painters Forstal, Faversham, Kent. Our two acre orchard site with grass pitches. The campsite lies within seventeen acres on the slope of The Kent Downs, a designated area of natural beauty. The Alma ale house at the edge of the farm serves Shepherds Neame and hot meals all year round. Two acre quiet cherry orchard site based around a Tudor Manor house 1547 that gives its name to our village. Surrounded by orchards and open countryside but within easy reach of Faversham, Whitstable and Canterbury. Pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans with or without electric hook up on a level grassy site. Pets are welcome and a crew member is always around the reception or farm to help out. The Campsite is open from 1st march until 31st October. The local area is awash with things to do. Faversham once the busiest port in 17th century England for its wool trade has the longest complete medieval street in the country. A wealth of little shops, cafes and pubs as well as the country’s oldest family owned brewery Shepherd Neame. Whitstable sitting just along the coast, famed for its Oysters and Sunsets is a fun beachside community bustling in the summer months and hauntingly bleak in the winter ones. The World Heritage sites of Canterbury are just a fifteen minute trip away with all its well documented history and plentiful shops and eateries.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Otter Channel Campsite

12. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(164)
35km from Folkestone · 15 units
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Far and Away Camping

13. Far and Away Camping

100%
(52)
37km from Folkestone · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

14. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

92%
(72)
41km from Folkestone · 32 units
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
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Frittenden Orchard

15. Frittenden Orchard

95%
(20)
41km from Folkestone · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Frittenden Orchard offers a unique camping experience nestled among fruit trees on a Kent farm near Staplehurst. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect: Accommodation: Grass pitches for tents, touring caravans, and motorhomes are available within the orchards. Off-grid camping provides a back-to-nature experience. Wildlife and Nature: Guests can explore the 11-acre woodland wildlife haven surrounding the camping fields, offering opportunities to spot foxes, badgers, and deer. Activities: Start your day with morning tai chi classes, suitable for beginners. Diane your host can suggest local walks and sightseeing activities. Food: Free-range eggs from the farm's hens and freshly picked strawberries are available. Guests can also bring grills for barbecues or visit the nearby village pub for meals. Facilities: While there's no electricity on-site, amenities include wifi, ice-pack freezing, and charging facilities for devices. Local Area: Frittenden village, just five minutes' drive away, Sisinghurst village ha offers a convenient store for locally sourced produce. Additionally the local pub is within walking distance with locally sourced ingredients. Sisinghurst castle - walking distance or 5 mins drive Restrictions and Regulations: The site does not have shower facilities. Certain dog breeds listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act are not accepted
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Pett Coastal Camping

16. Pett Coastal Camping

100%
(12)
42km from Folkestone · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Simple pop-up pitches in 11 acres of farm fields on the East Sussex coast Drinking water taps Compostable toilet in field Small shop on farm site, (milk, eggs, apple juice, yoghurt) Back to nature star-gazing opportunities Open field camping Very low light pollution Large meadow, pick your own pitch on the grass Pett Level beach 10 mins walk Hastings and Rye only a 15 minute drive away Camber sands 25 mins away Families welcome Sorry no dogs please as on a working sheep farm Perfect for tents and campervans, off grid camping No electricity or grey waste facilities here Nestled within the green rolling hills of Pett, Lunsford Farm opens its flowery meadows for the month of August once more. This is an unique opportunity to enjoy the East Sussex coast overlooking the expansive seashore of Pett Level under the stars on ancient meadow farmland. If you enjoy the proper simple camping experience, you will be in your element! The pebbly and sandy beach of Pett (10 mins walk down the hill) offers a refreshing dip and during low tide an array of rock pools are waiting to be explored in the 6500 year old sunken forest. There are ample places to feed hungry tummies, either at the beachfront cafe, weekend food truck, or up in the village at one of the two pubs that serve great food. The simple shop in the farmyard stocks fresh eggs from the farm’s own chickens, local milk, yogurt, and apple juice from the farm’s orchard. There are also logs to purchase for your campfire. Campfires are permitted as long as they are raised off the ground so as not to burn the ancient grassland which does not repair. We are happy to be able to offer a small number of firepits to hire for a returnable deposit, or bring your own to avoid missing out. With no nearby lights, light pollution is low which makes for a stunning starry nights sky when cloud conditions allow. You will be utterly amazed how many stars you can see, and perhaps discover new ones. A five minute walk (you will need torches for night walking) brings you to the village of Pett. Here you can enjoy a relaxing pint or a good meal at the Royal Oak pub, visit the Tic Tokory tea shop or hang out in the play park in the cricket/recreational field. There is also the Two Sawyers pub 5 mins further on that serves excellent food. As the campsite is situated within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it can function as a great base for a multitude of walks or bike rides, vineyard tours, or just a general ramble around the towns of Rye, Winchelsea, Old Town Hastings or further afield.
Potable water
Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

17. Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

98%
(23)
43km from Folkestone · 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 PLEASE NOTE the fire pits are on the top of the field near the woodland edge. 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. There are some hammocks already up for campers to enjoy.. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Large communal group tent now included - for shade, to escape rain or just chill out in. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £280 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £25 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.
Showers
Dogwood Glamping

18. Dogwood Glamping

90%
(42)
43km from Folkestone · 4 units
The luxury option to one of the Sussex High Weald's loveliest rural retreats
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
Star Field Camping

19. Star Field Camping

97%
(62)
45km from Folkestone · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Glassenbury Camping

20. Glassenbury Camping

99%
(81)
46km from Folkestone · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Frequently Asked Questions

Folkestone, a seaside town in Kent, has a pretty fishing harbour, public gardens, a delightful cobbled old high street of independent shops and art galleries, a harbour arm lined with quirky places to eat and drink, a Victorian promenade and bandstand, and fantastic tourist attractions in almost every direction from Canterbury Cathedral to Dover Castle and the closer-than-you-think shores of France.

Folkestone has a range of beaches to choose from, including the hopefully-named Sunny Sands beach at low tide, a huge shingle expanse on the Sandgate side of town, and the wilder side of the shore at The Warren, which hides in the shadow of the town’s East Cliff and looks towards Dover and the nature reserve at Samphire Hoe.

Folkestone is on the edge of the Kent Downs AONB, making the local landscapes a boon for campers. There are plenty of old-school caravan sites hugging or even hogging the coastline, but there are also Folkestone camping and glamping sites with a little of the 'je ne sais quoi' that makes a campsite cool.

While camping in Folkestone, you'll have easy access to nearby attractions such as Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway with its tiny trains, and the closer-than-you-think shores of France.

You can also explore different options for camping near Folkestone on Hipcamp.

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

Popular Folkestone holidays