The best farm stays near St. Ives, Cornwall

Both a beloved family vacation spot and Cornwall’s cultural epicentre, seaside St Ives buzzes with activity from dusk to sundown. Wake up early for a surf class, hike along the South West Coast Path, and spot seals and seabirds from The Island, then relax at one of many cafés looking out across the harbour. Once you’ve had your fill of beachy sea and sand, head into the town to stroll the cobbled lanes, browse the galleries and artisan boutiques, and admire art masterpieces in the Tate St Ives. Camping is equally varied, whether you prefer a tranquil country camping ground or a 5-star holiday park.

There's a reason St Ives has been named the British Travel Awards' Best UK Seaside Town on multiple occasions: there are few places better to get your dose of sun and sand than here.

1. Hit the beach

Spending the day at the seaside will be at the top of most people’s list when visiting St Ives. The shape of the St Ives peninsula means there’s a beach facing every direction, so whether you’re heading out to take photos at sunrise or going for a sunset paddle, you’ll see a beach that’s bathed in sunshine (assuming the sun is out, of course).

Choose Porthmeor or Porthminster blue-flag beaches for top-quality surfing and swimming, with the latter being the most popular beach in the region. Though the smallest beach in the area, the sheltered Porthgwidden proves a sun-trap throughout summer and is sought out among those looking to top up their town. At St Ives Harbour beach, you can admire the boats from your spot on the shore, while kid-friendly Carbis Bay and its tranquil waters are just a mile from town.

2. Wander the town

Visitors can walk along St Ives’ cobbled streets to the harbour and working port, where fishers go by in their boats. Shops, galleries, cafes and pubs line its street, great spots for dining out while overlooking the harbour.

Wandering the maze of independent shops and galleries in St Ives is a nice way to while away an afternoon, and a trip to Tate St Ives is a great place for rainy days. The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden is another cultural hotspot, dedicated to one of the region's most influential artists. The historic St Ives Society of Artists, meanwhile, features changing exhibitions through the year.

3. Get active

If browsing art galleries isn't your cup of tea, how about something more upbeat? You can go for a run or ramble on the South West Coast Path, the UK's longest national trail at 630 miles, which can be picked up from St Ives and runs around the southwest peninsula. We wouldn't recommend the St Ives 14-mile walk in one trip, but even following a portion of the trail affords some magnificent views.

To get active in the water, a stand-up paddleboard or kayak can be hired at the beach, or you can also take a boat trip to Seal Island to see a grey Atlantic seal colony.

96% (349) • 304 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near St. Ives

Coverack Camping & Glamping

1. Coverack Camping & Glamping

99%

(200)

33km from St. Ives · 162 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Traditional family camping near Coverack, with the promise of coast, countryside and Cornish ice cream

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

£12

/ night

Secret Spot Camping Saunton

2. Secret Spot Camping Saunton

99%

(140)

137km from St. Ives · 12 units · Tents

Finding this exclusive Devon spot is like making it on to the best VIP guest list in town

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from

£20

/ night

Pittaford Farm

3. Pittaford Farm

99%

(67)

129km from St. Ives · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A campfire-friendly site in South Devon, with a beach, a nature reserve and a pub all less than 45 minutes' walk away

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from

£26

/ night

Troytown Farm Campsite

4. Troytown Farm Campsite

71km from St. Ives · 4 units · Tents, Glamping

Extreme Atlantic isolation, one of England’s most naturally beautiful campsites

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from

£18

/ night

Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

5. Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

98%

(85)

19km from St. Ives · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Quiet camping meadows and a friendly café located beside some of Cornwall's most popular cycling routes

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from

£15

/ night

Pure & Rustic

6. Pure & Rustic

86%

(7)

139km from St. Ives · 6 units · Glamping

Acres of beautiful woodlands & pastures for those that like to sleep under canvas with or without electric. Hot showers, Pure Greenfields spring water on tap, designated fire pits to bring out your rawness of nature!! Pure & Rustic is close by to some fantastic local pubs, and the beaches of Croyde, Saunton, Putsborough & Woolacombe. A magical woodland retreat to watch the moon & stars float by..!

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from

£15

/ night

The Secret Garden

7. The Secret Garden

100%

(5)

37km from St. Ives · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

2 sites to stay ruby rose for chalet or jasmine pitch for van This secret garden's is surrounded by the fields and tall hedges, a magical place, it’s in a world of its own and will certainly make those memories. * Private spacious camping in a very peaceful and beautiful space just for you and your favorites ! either with chalet on its own, van, tents or both :) chalet with double bed, single bed, bathroom, shower, tv mini kitchen, plates, kettle, cutlery, pots & pans, outside washing up area Chill in your massive jacuzzi with a your favourite drink and best tunes 🎶 (add on for Jasmine) * Picnic bench, garden, hot shower, flushing toilet, firepit (add on for Jasmine) * A very special gated garden to spend time out with your favourite people. Family friendly You may spot wild pheasants, chickens, indian runner ducks, our super friendly Bengal Cats! if you like them!😻 Your own furry friends are welcome as it is a gated secure garden. Enjoy the fire pit (wood and firelighters can be brought in advance) or bring your own :) Your car/van can park right outside the gate to your secret garden. (jasmine is another pitch) Lovely walk down the bottom of our lane to river gannel, bring your own paddle boards, kayaks, yourself for a swim :) From the river gannel if you walk from your garden it will take you to crantock beach and quant village, including the 2 local pubs worth a visit if your into our local history. Trenance 15 minute walk 0r 3 minute drive (walk the country back lane here to Trenance via river gannel for a beautiful nature walk) *Horse riding along the river gannel at Trenance riding stables *Trenance Boating lake, Tea rooms, rose gardens and Boat hire *Trenance Play park for the kids 5 mins walk to esso/budgens for essentials 24 hour 5 Mins car ride to the quant Crantock Village beach, or long walk to the beach. Tearooms, the outstanding C-bay day spa for an extra special day out. 1.2 miles into town, 10 min car ride to Newquay town centre to visit our beautiful Cornish beaches, harbour (fishing trips) golf course, chip shops, deliveroo do deliver here :) Lifts i can do for £10 back from town before 12am if your stuck :) Bus direct into Newquay town Center or any other part of Cornwall 4 minute walk down the lane :)

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from

£29

/ night

The Enchanted Wilderness

8. The Enchanted Wilderness

93%

(43)

95km from St. Ives · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Simple riverside camping pitches in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor

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from

£28

/ night

The Camping Field

9. The Camping Field

96%

(26)

57km from St. Ives · 35 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Back-to-basics camping in beautiful Cornish countryside

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

£16

/ night

Wonton Park Camping

10. Wonton Park Camping

100%

(11)

123km from St. Ives · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes

View-tastic pitches for tents, campervans and caravans on a farm in Devon

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

from

£20

/ night

Pleasant Streams Farm Camping

11. Pleasant Streams Farm Camping

91%

(70)

47km from St. Ives · 67 units · Tents, Glamping

Lakeside camping with streams, rope swings and farmyard animals in rural Cornwall

Campfires

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Potable water

from

£15

/ night

Glamp or Camp at Magical Mena Farm

12. Glamp or Camp at Magical Mena Farm

100%

(63)

57km from St. Ives · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Easily accessed camping on a 15-acre farm, with family facilities and a vast amount of wild space to explore

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

£20

/ night

Milkmaid Meadow Campsite

13. Milkmaid Meadow Campsite

100%

(18)

131km from St. Ives · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes

An open, green, back-to-basics space with homely local produce for sale

Pets

Campfires

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from

£9

/ night

Livit, Glamping by the coast

14. Livit, Glamping by the coast

98%

(48)

125km from St. Ives · 9 units · Glamping

Adventure-filled glamping with sea views to savour

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from

£55

/ night

Strawfields Cabins and Camping

15. Strawfields Cabins and Camping

100%

(26)

145km from St. Ives · 14 units · Tents, Glamping

Camping and rustic glamping with campfires on an idyllic smallholding close to North Devon’s best-loved beaches

Campfires

Showers

Potable water

from

£30

/ night

Real Glamping at the Fir Hill

16. Real Glamping at the Fir Hill

92%

(13)

42km from St. Ives · 12 units · Glamping

Family-friendly yurt glamping on an enchanting old Cornwall estate just three miles from the surf and sand of Newquay

Pets

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Campfires

from

£140

/ night

Surf Pods and Camping at Atlantic Farm

17. Surf Pods and Camping at Atlantic Farm

88%

(66)

97km from St. Ives · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Glamping near Bude, with eye-catching eco-pods, a staggering treehouse for couples and traditional tent camping

Pets

Electrical hookup

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from

£26

/ night

Fairlinch Camping

18. Fairlinch Camping

96%

(74)

137km from St. Ives · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Keep your eyes on the sky; buzzards, kestrels, peregrine, falcons and barn owls are all common visitors

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from

£14

/ night

Sunset Camping

19. Sunset Camping

100%

(1)

19km from St. Ives · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Peaceful Cornish Site, situated a few minutes drive from the A30 at Redruth, with far reaching countryside views. An ideal central base from which to explore Cornwall's mining heritage, beautiful coastline and quaint fishing villages. Dogs are very welcome. Feel at ease on every pitch at Sunset Camping, a quiet and very welcoming family-friendly campsite in central Cornwall. This west-facing spot is well positioned to soak up all-day sunshine and has some truly lovely views over the surrounding area. Here you can watch the sun setting over the sea, take an evening stroll along the coast at Portreath's dog-friendly beach (10 minutes' drive), or relax with your pet (if you've brought one) over an end-of-day barbecue or campfire back at base. As for your days, you won't be short of options to fill them here: this centrally located site is within an hour's drive of most of the Cornish mainland, with top highlights like the Lizard Peninsula, Falmouth, Newquay, St Ives and Padstow all easy to reach. Sunset Camping is in a particularly prime location for walkers and cyclists, close as it is to the protected coastal areas around Godrevy and St Agnes (both 10 minutes), the Coast To Coast Trail and the Great Flat Lode Trail (10 minutes), steeped in attractive country views and Cornish mining history. Redruth (five minutes) is conveniently close to hand too, with pubs, cafés, supermarkets, a cinema and a railway station where you can set off on car-free day trips. Even closer to home are a dog-friendly pub, a discount supermarket and a play park (at North Country) – all of these are within a handy 10-minute stroll. Directions - Postcode TR16 4AN What 3 words - Novels, Flame, Branching

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

from

£13

/ night

Camp Couture

20. Camp Couture

100%

(17)

146km from St. Ives · 4 units · Tents, Glamping

We Have 10 acres, 5 of which is woodland. Each let has its own private area with seating table and fire pit some of our let’s have either a hammock or swinging chair Tent pitches are in the woodland which also have their own private area with table chairs hammock fire pit and a camp kitchen to share. We have friendly residents of Alpaca, sheep, a goat and peacocks and chickens that you are welcome to feed with the supplied food. We have a local pub you can walk to across farmers fields about a 20 minute ramble. South Molton, a 3 minute drive away, has a small artisan market voted the best in the UK

Pets

Campfires

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from

£35

/ night

Both a beloved family vacation spot and Cornwall’s cultural epicentre, seaside St Ives buzzes with activity from dusk to sundown. Wake up early for a surf class, hike along the South West Coast Path, and spot seals and seabirds from The Island, then relax at one of many cafés looking out across the harbour. Once you’ve had your fill of beachy sea and sand, head into the town to stroll the cobbled lanes, browse the galleries and artisan boutiques, and admire art masterpieces in the Tate St Ives. Camping is equally varied, whether you prefer a tranquil country camping ground or a 5-star holiday park.

There's a reason St Ives has been named the British Travel Awards' Best UK Seaside Town on multiple occasions: there are few places better to get your dose of sun and sand than here.

1. Hit the beach

146km from St. Ives · 4 units · Tents, Glamping

We Have 10 acres, 5 of which is woodland. Each let has its own private area with seating table and fire pit some of our let’s have either a hammock or swinging chair Tent pitches are in the woodland which also have their own private area with table chairs hammock fire pit and a camp kitchen to share. We have friendly residents of Alpaca, sheep, a goat and peacocks and chickens that you are welcome to feed with the supplied food. We have a local pub you can walk to across farmers fields about a 20 minute ramble. South Molton, a 3 minute drive away, has a small artisan market voted the best in the UK

Pets

Campfires

Showers

from

£35

/ night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

M

Myrtle

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Milkmaid Meadow Campsite

It's a peaceful, quiet site, and we were treated to an evening of watching swallows followed by an incredible moon rise. We wouldn't hesitate to come back.

t

tyla

August 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

We had such a wonderful two-night stay at Elm Farm with two friends and our two dogs. The location was absolutely perfect, just a short drive to lots of beautiful beaches, with Porthtowan being a real highlight for us as it brought back childhood memories of visiting. The facilities at Elm Farm were excellent and made our stay really comfortable. The hosts were so welcoming and attentive, and they went out of their way to give us loads of great recommendations for places to explore nearby. One of the best surprises was discovering their café on the bike hire side, the food was absolutely amazing and not to be missed! We couldn’t have asked for a better base for our trip. We’d definitely recommend Elm Farm to anyone looking for a relaxing stay in a fantastic location, and we’ll certainly be returning.

C

Charlotte

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Enchanted Wilderness

Lovely site, great amenities that were also eco friendly, river is right there for a swim or kayak and the morning views were beautiful. We were the only campers so it was super quiet but Jonathan was close by if we had any issues. Would have loved to have stayed longer!

P

Peter

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Secret Spot Camping Saunton

Fabulous 3-field site, fantastically located and very quiet after the August Bank Holiday. Cleanest showers, toilets and guest hut with very friendly and helpful hosts. I'd say more, but it's supposed to be a secret.

J

Jess

August 2025

With kids

2 nights at Livit, Glamping by the coast

Amazing quiet spot (except for some noisy sheep!), plenty of space per pitch & lovely sea views. excellent shower and toilet facilities a very short walk away. Picnic bench and fire pit and wood provided. The tent itself was amazing - looked brand new, on a raised deck which kept it dry and clean & chairs to sit and watch the sun rise with a cuppa, comfy warm beds, rugs, blankets, hot water bottles all provided. Cute little “kitchen” hut with a gas hob and kettle and pans and crockery and cool box - everything we needed for a short break was thought of and provided. Great communication with the hosts beforehand as well. Would highly recommend and love to return if we’re in the area again.

C

Charlotte

August 2025

5 nights at Surf Pods and Camping at Atlantic Farm

Lovely campsite, the pods look like Tellytubby Land! It's a bit of a walk into Bude probably 40mins but the park and ride is almost opposite the site and very reasonable. We stayed in the Tree House, it was comfy and clean. It has a kettle, microwave, toaster, BBQ and fridge which is so convenient. Would recommend taking your usual cooking kit as there are plates, mugs, bowls and glasses but not pots and pans or stove. I might also take a picnic table if you like to sit in the sun as the seating area is shady. No curtains means you need a sleep mask if you like a dark room but I loved waking up to the sight of a blue sky. Would also recommend a torch for going up and down the steps at night.

Enjoying the lush green surroundings of the camp area on the provided hammock

J

Josh

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Couture

Had a really great time camping at Camp Couture. The facilities were fantastic, lots of space and beautiful setting. Nick was a brilliant host, help us move our stuff to our pitch and was friendly throughout. Would 100% recommend!

D

David

August 2025

Tent

4 nights at Secret Spot Camping Saunton

What a wonderful find. Relatively close for a camping site to lots of local amenities and all of the wonderful opportunities that Croyde, Saunton and Wollacombe offer for jut getting out there and calling. The campsite is well maintained and good value. Steve is so knowledgeable and informative and will guide you through what to do and see.

H

HM

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Strawfields Cabins and Camping

Look no further – just book it! The site was spotless and really well-kept, with a lovely play area that kept the kids happy. It’s perfectly located, close to amazing spots like the rocky valleys and Tarr Steps, with stunning surroundings all around. Alex was absolutely amazing – so friendly, welcoming, and always happy to help. If you’re looking for a place around North Devon, this is definitely it. We can’t wait to come back!

K

Kimberley

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Pittaford Farm

Absolutely loved our time, both sally and Paul were lovely and super friendly. The spot was so peaceful and had a homely atmosphere, everyone we meet was very friendly. 100% going back!

K

Kate

August 2025

6 m Class B

With kids

3 nights at Coverack Camping & Glamping

Beautiful site. Very clean. Relaxed and would stay again.

R

Robbi

August 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Elm Farm Camp, Cafe & Cycle hire

We had a great stay at Elm farm which is in a fantastic location to go surfing and to explore the coastline and local beaches. The campsite is lovely and quiet and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. I will definitely be going back!

J

Jack

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Milkmaid Meadow Campsite

Lovely caring owner who checks in on guests who don't quite make it to the campsite in time!

J

Jon

August 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Coverack Camping & Glamping

Great place, stunning views and practical amenities. Staff were so helpful and accommodating. Defo recommend. Jane, Jon and Nala the Labrador

A

Andrew

August 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Coverack Camping & Glamping

From the pre-arrival text, through to the friendly welcome, daily chats and big wave goodbye our stay at Coverack felt like a visit to an old family friend. Only a host trip to Porthcruno beach

D

Deborah

August 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Fairlinch Camping

I was greatly impressed by this wonderful camping field which stretches high up to give the most stunning views. The facilities were lovely and clean and great hot water for the showers and the washing up area. I walked down to Saunton Sands then round back to Braunton and to the campsite! Great adventure. Richard was very friendly and came around in the day. I will definitely be back as great location

L

Louiza

August 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Camping Field

Richard is such a nice guy and goes out of his way to help, including helping us with our electric hook up. The site has really lovely views and was very peaceful. We had a really great, relaxed visit. Close to dog beaches and bouldering at Helman’s Tor. We also really enjoyed the eggs! Definitely recommend if you want peace and quiet with a view

View showing how private and tucked away the tent pitches are!

M

Med

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Enchanted Wilderness

Beautiful campsite with beautiful surroundings. Great value would recommend

S

Suzie

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Enchanted Wilderness

A stunning location that was relaxing and nourishing. Jonathan was welcoming and we loved the Runner ducks too!

R

Rhiannon

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Fairlinch Camping

We had a great time, the site is great, lots of space, good facilities and fantastic views!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best farm stays near St. Ives guide

Where to go

Penwith Peninsula

Cornwall’s western arm is a rugged wilderness of soaring sea cliffs and windswept headlands. Hike along the coast, stopping to swim at hidden sandy beaches, discover Bronze Age ruins, and camp out at remote coastal campsites. A visit to Land’s End, the westernmost point of mainland Britain, is a rite of passage for travellers, but equally enchanting is St Michael's Mount, an island monastery marooned off the south coast.

North Coast

East of St Ives, the coastal road to Newquay winds its way past rocky coves, ocean lookouts, and pretty fishing villages. Newquay and Bude are the destinations of choice for budding surfers, but if you prefer a more relaxed beach vibe, head to Perranporth or Port Isaac. Additional highlights include the ruins of Tintagel castle and the foodie hub of Padstow, where you can tuck into everything from seafood to Cornish pasties.

Isles of Scilly

Ferries set sail from Land’s End or Penzance to the Isles of Scilly, a cluster of tiny islands off Cornwall’s western tip. Camping on the islands is a retreat from the mainland crowds, and you can pitch your tent amid verdant farmlands or right by the seafront. Simple pleasures await on the islands—lounge on white-sand beaches, hike along rugged headlands, and spot wildlife along the coast.

Family Holidays in St Ives

St Ives is an ideal destination to take your kids, as the Cornish town is a hugely popular destination for family holidays. With many of its campsites within close proximity to its top spots and gorgeous beaches, St Ives makes for a laid-back trip to take with the kids in tow.

If you're looking to start your holiday off with a bang, then you could even book a trip with the St Ives Bay Line, a train journey from St Erth to St Ives that offers an incredible view of the coast.

Once in St Ives, the kids will love the family-friendly blue-flag beach of Porthminster, which is safe for shallow swimming (dogs are only welcome in winter) and offers views of Godrevy Lighthouse in the distance. It's spacious, too, giving you and your clan plenty of room to find your spot in the sand. If you have younger kids, we'd recommend Cardis Bay, which has far less surf than its counterparts, ideal for toddlers on a supervised paddle.

For evening entertainment, Kidz R Us is an award-winning youth theatre group that hosts events throughout the year. The group works with children, teenagers, and young adults, putting out shows for everyone to enjoy, from musicals to pantomimes.

When to go

Summer vacationers descend on St Ives in July and August so expect big crowds. Advance bookings are essential at this time, for everything from campsites to restaurants. Shoulder-season campers can make the most of lower prices and fewer crowds, and it’s often still warm enough to swim—lifeguard patrols run from easter through early October at the main beaches. For the biggest waves, seasoned surfers hit the water in winter.

Know before you go

St Ives has a few camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
St Ives has public transport links to many surrounding towns, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
Most campsites require advance booking, and many ask for the full payment in advance. Be sure to check opening dates, as many campsites close in the winter months.
Wild camping is illegal throughout Cornwall.