The best pets off leash campsites 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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near St. Ives

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near St. Ives

1. Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

98%

(211)

117km from St. Ives · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Seriously simple but beautiful wild camping beside a lake on Dartmoor

2. 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 :)

3. 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

4. Beechwood

101km from St. Ives · 60 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Wild off grid camping in 4 acres of an old small holding farm that was ran since early 1900s until 1975 the old barns still lay in ruin around the site, mainly suitable for 4x4 or cars that aren’t too low to the ground, 70 pitches available around the property take your pick the farm is surrounded by fields and cattle with the nearest house over a mile away, bring yourself to nature and escape the country with no electric and no big city’s

5. Higher Waytown Farm Camping

100%

(11)

119km from St. Ives · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes

**Now closed except for walkers and 4x4s due to access. Contact directly with Qs - thanks!** Nestled on the hilltops near Bucks Mills and Clovelly, 10-15min walk by footpath from the SW coast path, our 13 acre smallholding-in-progress offers rustic nearly-wild camping in our wildflower meadows. Share your space with hares, deer, foxes, owls, songbirds, field voles, bees and butterflies. The views from the fields are a well kept local secret - from your tent or van look out over Hartland, Lundy island, Saunton, Croyde, Exmoor and Dartmoor, even Pembrokeshire on a clear day! FACILITIES: In keeping with our low impact approach, the fields are just fields, but with the addition of some picnic benches! A flushing toilet, drinking water, hot shower, charging and WiFi are found by the farmhouse. BBQs and fires permitted off the ground and we have fire pits for loan and logs for sale. Please pack out all rubbish and leave NO trace. Dogs welcome under close control - please avoid meadow centres in summer to protect the nesting skylarks and ensure they do NOT chase the wildlife. ACCESS: Easily accessible by 4WD, and 2WD in summer/when dry. Be aware it's a grassy uphill track, if your vehicle is not great off-road... (but everyone so far has been fine!) The views are worth the walk though! Campervans have backup options lower down near the house. THE SITE: Nature spot, relax and stargaze across our 4 fields. We recently planted 800 trees for a new woodland, created a wildlife pond, and are establishing a traditional cider orchard. Rose looks after our vegetable garden and usually has some native breed piglets. Our apiary is managed by Jon who will happily explain about bees... and sell you a jar of honey for breakfast. Note - the area is agricultural with very occasional farm noise and odour. We are pleased to be a South West Coast Path Waymaker, and welcome walkers. We also welcome anyone enjoying the Atlantic Highway or South West 660. We like classics and have spanners! Flexible arrival/departure. If we are not around just choose a spot and we'll find you later. We are both keen adventurers and happy to provide tips on things to do and places to visit! Please contact with any questions and follow @HWF_Adventures

6. Pigscombe Piglet

100%

(15)

68km from St. Ives · 2 units · Glamping

An exclusive hire site with a cute and cosy cabin and a rustic shepherd's hut in charmingly rural East Cornwall

7. Little Harford Lower Woodland

100%

(4)

142km from St. Ives · 5 units · Tents

Little Harford Lower Woodland is set in a property of just over 6 acres. The woodland here at Little Harford is a tranquil place for people wanting to find peace and quiet in a back to nature experience. A small river meanders through the bottom of the lower woodland which can occasionally come up to the top of the bank with lots of rain. A winding path leads down through the woodland to where the land levels out at the water meadow area of the woodland. A family of buzzards live in the valley and you can often hear owls, pheasants and wild birds. A certain degree of fitness is needed as there is no vehicle access and wheelbarrows are available to help move your gear. There is parking at the entrance to the lower woodland on hard standing. A compost toilet is available for all No.2’s and mindful wild peeing is encouraged. Tap water is available from an outside tap at the property for drinking water. There is a washing up area (eco products provided) and a solar-powered gas fired shower. Campfires are allowed and seasoned wood can be purchased at a small extra cost. Nearest village of Tedburn St Mary with a local pub and the village shop is 1 ½ miles away. The nearest town of Crediton is 3 miles away with plenty of supermarkets, cafes, pubs and restaurants. Dartmoor is close by with Fingle Bridge just a 20 minute drive. We only offer a very limited number of camping spots at any time to preserve the tranquility for everyone. BBQs and firepits allowed, dog friendly

8. Acorn Farm

100%

(4)

131km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

A rustic dog-friendly glamping site on the edge of Dartmoor

9. 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

10. Foxhole Glade Eco-Campsite

107km from St. Ives · 25 units · Tents

Back-to-basics 'wild' camping in rural Devon Family, fire and dog-friendly Explore the woods, play in the stream and enjoy the nature our site has to offer Experience camping like it used to be, in nearly 20 acres of peaceful Devon countryside. With fields, woodlands and a stream running through the middle, there's space for family, friends and dogs too, find your spot and get exploring, there are no designated pitches here. Nestled between Dartmoor National Park to the south and the dramatic Cornish coastline to the north you will not be short of a story to share around the campfire. It's not just people, as neighbours to a County Wildlife Site, we are very excited to discover the wildlife that also calls our patch home and help protect some rare habitats: we are custodians to a small patch of extremely rare Temperate Rainforest and Culm Grassland that is a nature-lovers' paradise. The closest you’ll get to a wash is a splash in the on-site stream, the only undercover space is our small, communal field shelter and when it comes to drinking water – come prepared WE HAVE NO DRINKING WATER ON SITE! What we lack in luxuries, we make up for with freedom! Space to wander, play games, stargaze and generally have fun however that looks to you: - Compost Toilets - Various Firepits/BBQs - Fire circle in the woods - Small solar set-up for charging devices/torches etc (weather permitting) - Field guides and nature identification books to borrow - Hammocks - Board Games - Mini Bushcraft Class (chargeable)

11. Exclusive use Cornish Eco-Glamping

100%

(6)

85km from St. Ives · 4 units · Glamping

An exclusive-hire site for riverside wild glamping in an ancient Cornish woodland

12. Coastal Cabins Glamping

100%

(9)

114km from St. Ives · 10 units · Glamping

Luxury wooden cabins in the stunning North Devon countryside; the perfect setting for a relaxing break away from all the stresses of life.

13. Stairway to Devon - Huts & Tubs

100%

(1)

135km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

Escape to Stairway to Devon: Luxury Cabins and Family Cottage Discover the ultimate retreat at Stairway to Devon, where our luxurious Norwegian cabins, Tarka and Midge, and our charming family cottage offer an unforgettable escape into the heart of Devon's countryside. Nestled within a tranquil ten-acre estate, our accommodations are designed to provide a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, ensuring a memorable experience for couples and families alike. Norwegian Cabins: Tarka and Midge Our cabins, Tarka and Midge, are exclusively designed for couples, offering an intimate and cozy retreat. Each cabin features a plush double bed with high-quality linens, a charming wood-burning stove for a warm and inviting atmosphere, and modern amenities including a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious bathroom with a large shower. Enjoy breathtaking 30-mile views over Exmoor from your private patio, complete with outdoor seating and BBQ facilities. Unwind in your own wood-fired hot tub under the starry skies, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature. Family Cottage Our family cottage provides a perfect home away from home for those traveling with children. It boasts a large jacuzzi, a delightful treehouse for the kids to explore, and a trampoline for endless fun. The cottage also offers extensive outdoor seating and BBQ facilities, making it an ideal spot for family bonding and creating cherished memories. With 10 acres of beautiful Devon landscape to explore, there's plenty of space for both relaxation and adventure. Guest Services At Stairway to Devon, we offer a range of services to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We provide firewood for purchase, bicycle rentals for exploring the scenic trails, and a convenient pick-up and drop-off service from the nearest train stations or airports. Additionally, we are fully licensed to sell alcohol, wood, and other essentials you might need during your stay. Explore the Local Area Located in the heart of Devon, our farm provides easy access to local attractions, charming pubs, and scenic walking trails. Enjoy picturesque walks on our estate and discover the abundant wildlife. Visit nearby attractions such as the quaint village pubs or venture into Exmoor National Park for a day of hiking and exploration. Book your stay at Stairway to Devon today and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Devon's countryside. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, our luxurious cabins and family cottage offer the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories.

14. Coastal Glamping @ Tregantle Farm

100%

(13)

89km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

Quiet bell tent glamping within walking distance of Sharrow Beach and Whitsand Bay.

15. Little Menherion

18km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

A magical log cabin in Cornwall with a wild jacuzzi, luxurious amenities, and nature galore.

16. Polgwedhen Lodge

26km from St. Ives · 1 unit · Glamping

A peaceful lakeside lodge in ornamental gardens in Cornwall

17. Ocean View Lodge

6.3km from St. Ives · 1 unit · Glamping

The Ocean View Lodge is a newly insulated timber lodge nestled within its own wildflower meadow, offering complete privacy. The lodge boasts stunning panoramic views of Mounts Bay and the majestic St. Michael's Mount. Inside, the cozy lodge features a king-size bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, a twin bedroom, a cabin bed, and a second bathroom. The front of the lodge houses a fully fitted kitchen equipped with a fridge, freezer, electric cooker, and microwave. The dining/living area offers a TV and an elegant log-burning stove, providing extensive sea views through double patio doors and large front windows. Additionally, a utility room includes a washing machine. Outside, guests can enjoy a covered hot tub, two hammocks, decking with a picnic table and deck chairs, and a fire pit, all while soaking in the fantastic views. The local country pub, The White Hart, known for serving excellent food, is conveniently within walking distance. Beautiful sandy beaches are just over a mile away. Nearby places worth visiting include Marazion and St. Michael's Mount, Mousehole, St. Ives, and Land's End. Additionally, the Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre cut into the cliffside at Porthcurno, and the highly recommended Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, which are within walking distance, offer wonderful experiences for visitors.

Camper favorites near St. Ives

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stairway to Devon - Huts & Tubs

100%

(1)

135km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

Escape to Stairway to Devon: Luxury Cabins and Family Cottage Discover the ultimate retreat at Stairway to Devon, where our luxurious Norwegian cabins, Tarka and Midge, and our charming family cottage offer an unforgettable escape into the heart of Devon's countryside. Nestled within a tranquil ten-acre estate, our accommodations are designed to provide a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, ensuring a memorable experience for couples and families alike. Norwegian Cabins: Tarka and Midge Our cabins, Tarka and Midge, are exclusively designed for couples, offering an intimate and cozy retreat. Each cabin features a plush double bed with high-quality linens, a charming wood-burning stove for a warm and inviting atmosphere, and modern amenities including a fully equipped kitchen and a spacious bathroom with a large shower. Enjoy breathtaking 30-mile views over Exmoor from your private patio, complete with outdoor seating and BBQ facilities. Unwind in your own wood-fired hot tub under the starry skies, surrounded by the serene sounds of nature. Family Cottage Our family cottage provides a perfect home away from home for those traveling with children. It boasts a large jacuzzi, a delightful treehouse for the kids to explore, and a trampoline for endless fun. The cottage also offers extensive outdoor seating and BBQ facilities, making it an ideal spot for family bonding and creating cherished memories. With 10 acres of beautiful Devon landscape to explore, there's plenty of space for both relaxation and adventure. Guest Services At Stairway to Devon, we offer a range of services to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. We provide firewood for purchase, bicycle rentals for exploring the scenic trails, and a convenient pick-up and drop-off service from the nearest train stations or airports. Additionally, we are fully licensed to sell alcohol, wood, and other essentials you might need during your stay. Explore the Local Area Located in the heart of Devon, our farm provides easy access to local attractions, charming pubs, and scenic walking trails. Enjoy picturesque walks on our estate and discover the abundant wildlife. Visit nearby attractions such as the quaint village pubs or venture into Exmoor National Park for a day of hiking and exploration. Book your stay at Stairway to Devon today and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Devon's countryside. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, our luxurious cabins and family cottage offer the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories.

Coastal Glamping @ Tregantle Farm

100%

(13)

89km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

Quiet bell tent glamping within walking distance of Sharrow Beach and Whitsand Bay.

Little Menherion

18km from St. Ives · 3 units · Glamping

A magical log cabin in Cornwall with a wild jacuzzi, luxurious amenities, and nature galore.

Polgwedhen Lodge

26km from St. Ives · 1 unit · Glamping

A peaceful lakeside lodge in ornamental gardens in Cornwall

Ocean View Lodge

6.3km from St. Ives · 1 unit · Glamping

The Ocean View Lodge is a newly insulated timber lodge nestled within its own wildflower meadow, offering complete privacy. The lodge boasts stunning panoramic views of Mounts Bay and the majestic St. Michael's Mount. Inside, the cozy lodge features a king-size bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, a twin bedroom, a cabin bed, and a second bathroom. The front of the lodge houses a fully fitted kitchen equipped with a fridge, freezer, electric cooker, and microwave. The dining/living area offers a TV and an elegant log-burning stove, providing extensive sea views through double patio doors and large front windows. Additionally, a utility room includes a washing machine. Outside, guests can enjoy a covered hot tub, two hammocks, decking with a picnic table and deck chairs, and a fire pit, all while soaking in the fantastic views. The local country pub, The White Hart, known for serving excellent food, is conveniently within walking distance. Beautiful sandy beaches are just over a mile away. Nearby places worth visiting include Marazion and St. Michael's Mount, Mousehole, St. Ives, and Land's End. Additionally, the Minack Theatre, an open-air theatre cut into the cliffside at Porthcurno, and the highly recommended Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, which are within walking distance, offer wonderful experiences for visitors.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

r

robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Little Harford Lower Woodland

My second visit to Little Harford Lower Woodland, truly a hidden gem not too far from Exeter, perfect for a wild winter camp. Rachel is a fabulous host and communication prior to arrival was fast and efficient. I will certainly be returning and recommending it to friends.

M

Mike

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

The view from my tent was amazing and if I was there in the summer with the water beside I think the view would be even better. I did worry about being able to drive out because of the way in and out but that's because it rained a lot when I was there but apart from that it's a nice quiet place

S

Samantha

October 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

4 nights at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

We had a wonderful time as always! We’ve been here quite a few times now, and it never disappoints. It’s such a beautiful, peaceful place to relax and unwind. A lovely surprise this time was watching the cows wander past — such a charming touch to an already perfect stay. We really can’t recommend this place enough; it’s definitely one of our favourite spots to camp!

Beautiful private lake for swimming, fishing and water sports

Ryan

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Nobody around us but the stars and two shetland ponies, views over the reservoir on the hill were amazing, but be careful pitching there as the grass is only centremeters deep and pegs hit rocks everywhere, our tent blew away and caused a scene - the land itself though is 10/10

s

shirley

October 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Beautiful site beside a lake. Lovely views and nice walks from the field. Nice to sit beside the camp fire star glazing at night.

r

roblox

October 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Amazing place to stop. Beautiful scenery with fantastic walks to the viaduct and reservoir nearby. Lovely to be able to have a fire. We went for a great meal at Dartmoor Inn (10 min drive) Got our camper down ok. It could get a bit tricky if the lane gets wet and slippery.

c

charlotte

September 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Beautiful Spot, we stayed for 2 nights. We had great communication with Phil and a bag of wood delivered to camp. Shared the camp with 2 ponies but no one else. Was nice to see the horse trail pass camp. Overall top spot if you are ok with no facilities. We would definitely stay again.

H

Hew

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

A gorgeous and spacious campsite with an absolutely magical feel. Such an idyllic spot to wake up in. I can't wait to come back and visit again!

P

Phillip

September 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

It was a beautiful secluded spot close to the lake and the moor.

Lewy

September 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Our second time staying at Phil’s beautiful lakeside gem. Seclusion, scenery, wildlife, stars and zero stress….. those are the words that sum up this hidden wonder. Literally yards from the moors with the ponies and rugged landscape, it’s the perfect place from which to explore. Bring EVERYTHING you need, there are no facilities at all and remember to leave no trace! Thanks Phil for another amazing stay. We’ll definitely be back again

M

Max

September 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Magical space, really enjoyed camping here and will look forward to returning. Obviously no toilet, a composting loo would have been great but still a very lovely, peaceful place to camp.

Jenna

September 2025

4 m Class B

4 nights at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Beautiful site! Perfect, peaceful get away. Will definitely be coming back again

M

Michael

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Beautifuly secluded and peaceful spot with great views of the reservoir/lake

J

Julie

August 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

What a gem! Very clear directions from the host, we found it easily and our campervan got down the narrow track no problem. Sometimes narrow tracks lead to hidden gems and that is definitely the case here! Beautiful location, typical Dartmoor... gentle-natured ponies wandering about, gorgeous views, stunning lake (maybe not everyone's ideal to swim in, but wonderful to sit by and enjoy the peace and quiet). Large pitches right next to the lake and a stone's throw from a river that you can walk alongside and explore - plenty of private spots along the river if you like a cold plunge! It is on a bridle path so the odd dog walker wandered past but that didn't bother us at all. One of the loveliest places I've stayed, highly recommend.

Robert

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Nicely off the beaten track, not accessible by larger vehicles & only 5 pitches on site made for a nice relaxed & quiet stay. Many thanks Phil!

F

Fiona

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Higher Waytown Farm Camping

A little slice of heaven high up on the hill ,with a view of that beautiful ocean . Everything was fab , the peace , the shower and toilet ( loved the lights and fresh flowers Rose ) Thank you for a perfect 3 night stay . We will be back, hopefully Fiona and Seren

K

Kai

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

Very nice and tucked away. Tight road to get down but just go slow. Amazing scenery with lovely walks from the site. Lovely and remote with access to fire pits which is great. Highly recommend and will come back in the near future.

T

Tracey

August 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Higher Waytown Farm Camping

We have been camping for over 25 years now and this is by far the best campsite we have stayed on . This is due to the lovely and welcoming owners . The largest pitch we have ever stayed on with outstanding views . The dogs being able to be off the lead on your pitch . We didn’t need to move the van off the site as the South West Coastal path was a 15 minute walk away . One day we walked to Peppercombe beach then the next day we walked in the other direction to Bucks Mills . We honestly didn’t want to go home as it was so peaceful and relaxing there. Before we left I bought 3 jars of their own honey and two jars are meant for Christmas presents but it’s so delicious that it might not make it !!!! We will definitely go back and also tell our friends about this wonderful site.

A

Anna

August 2025

3 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

A stunning tranquil site surrounded by woodland and moorland beauty. A great place to get grounded back in nature.

t

tyla

August 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

We stayed here for one night at the start of our camping getaway and couldn’t have asked for a better spot. The location is beautiful - right next to a peaceful lake, surrounded by the stunning Dartmoor scenery. It was the perfect setting to unwind with two friends, our two dogs and a roof tent. Access is a little tight if you’re in a larger vehicle, but nothing that should put you off. Once you are in the spot is definitely worth it. Secluded, quiet, and with plenty of space to relax, it made for an ideal first night under the stars. Would definitely recommend for anyone looking for a wild camping experience.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash campsites 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.