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Cross the border into Cornwall, where rugged headlands, estuaries, and historic mining towns lie at the mouth of the Plymouth Sound and the Lynher River. Camp by the seafront along the Rame Peninsula, tour an 18th-century mine, or enjoy wakeboarding and windsurfing at the Hamoaze estuary. Further west, the Cornish Riviera is home to picturesque fishing towns, golden beaches, and the Eden Project.
The River Tamar snakes its way north from Plymouth into the Tamar Valley AONB, where you can enjoy wildlife cruises and riverside camping. To the east, the misty moorlands and wild heathlands of the Dartmoor National Park are a natural playground for hikers and campers. Explore ancient ruins and waterfalls, ride the South Devon steam railway, then stop at a local pub for a traditional Devonshire cream tea.
Spring through autumn is the best time for camping, hiking, and boat trips near Plymouth. The city is busiest in July and August, when it’s a good idea to reserve campsites at least a few months in advance. Don’t be put off by a winter visit, though—it can be wet and windy along the coast, but there are plenty of indoor attractions to escape the rain, and many caravan parks stay open year-round.