The best great views campsites near Poole, Dorset

Perched on the shores of Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbors in the world, there are plenty of ways to get on the water in Poole. Swim and build sandcastles at the 3-mile long Sandbanks beach, take a wildlife-watching cruise around Brownsea Island, or try kitesurfing, windsurfing, or stand-up paddleboarding around the harbor. Even camping comes with a view of the water, and there are several holiday parks and camping grounds along the seafront. Away from the coast, explore miles of cycling trails, picnic in the gardens of Upton Country Park, or enjoy wine tasting at a Dorset vineyard.

97% (436)

Top-rated campgrounds

Perched on the shores of Poole Harbour, one of the largest natural harbors in the world, there are plenty of ways to get on the water in Poole. Swim and build sandcastles at the 3-mile long Sandbanks beach, take a wildlife-watching cruise around Brownsea Island, or try kitesurfing, windsurfing, or stand-up paddleboarding around the harbor. Even camping comes with a view of the water, and there are several holiday parks and camping grounds along the seafront. Away from the coast, explore miles of cycling trails, picnic in the gardens of Upton Country Park, or enjoy wine tasting at a Dorset vineyard.

97% (436)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sweet Hill Farm

94%

(296)

41km from Poole · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Dorset, South West England

Simple, almost-wild, seaside camping on the Isle of Portland

2. Meldon Lake and Woods Wild Camping

98%

(211)

146km from Poole · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Okehampton, Devon, South West England

Seriously simple but beautiful wild camping beside a lake on Dartmoor

3. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

133km from Poole · 22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

4. Berry's Ground Lane Campsite

100%

(18)

147km from Poole · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Martinhoe, England

Lovely wild camping pitches on the North Devon coastline. You will be one of a maximum of 6 pitches in a large field on the beautiful North Devon coast with incredible sea views. We can provide a firepit to borrow and you can purchase logs onsite so you can stargaze and chatter around the fire - back to nature! We are based just outside the pretty hamlet of Martinhoe in North Devon, a stone's throw from the SW Coast Path. There is a historic Roman Beacon closeby and plenty of wildlife around, we'd be surprised if you didn't see deer in the neighbouring fields! There is a compost loo and a water point, but no electricity / wifi - delightfully off-grid. Situated on an organic working farm this is the perfect place to escape!

5. Chalky Downs

96%

(605)

133km from Poole · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brighton, East Sussex, South East England

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

6. Hardyes Countryside Camping

98%

(43)

41km from Poole · 35 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Weymouth, Dorset, South West England

Camping in a Dorset field between Dorchester and the Jurassic coast.

7. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

100%

(57)

118km from Poole · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Aldsworth, England

Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis

8. Old Litten

99%

(60)

79km from Poole · 1 unit · Tent · Steep, Hampshire, South East England

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.

9. Pittaford Farm

99%

(67)

130km from Poole · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Kingsbridge, England

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

10. Brig's Farm

97%

(157)

67km from Poole · 21 units · Tents, Glamping · Bridport, Dorset, South West England

Family camping with campfires near Charmouth, with sea views and a couple of quirky glamping lorries

11. Gurt Yurts

100%

(23)

88km from Poole · 9 units · Tents, Glamping · Churchill, England

Off the beaten track on top of the Mendips in an area of outstanding natural beauty. A mixture of four acres of wild woodland, orchard and field set on a hillside. Our Yurt is set up in the trees giving you peaceful seclusion and a clear view across the sea to Wales and the mountains of the Brecon Beacons. A huge range of activities are possible or you can lie in the hammock with a good book. We have very friendly dogs and rescue chickens who may come and visit. Wild deer wander past in the early morning mist and the odd buzzard picks an argument with a bunch of crows but nothing much else should disturb you. We moved here after an 18 month search 8 years ago. It was close to everything we wanted and we've spent some time getting a bit closer.

12. Spring Hill Wild Camping

97%

(86)

70km from Poole · 15 units · Tents · Andover, England

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.

13. Abbey Home Farm

94%

(218)

111km from Poole · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cirencester, Gloucestershire, South West England

Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.

14. Penn Meadow Farm

91%

(233)

133km from Poole · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England

Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.

15. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%

(59)

101km from Poole · 1 unit · Glamping · Berkshire, South East England

A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.

16. Holyrood Farm Campsite

97%

(33)

33km from Poole · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Shaftesbury, England

Wild camping half a mile from Shaftesbury Spectacular views over the Blackmore Vale Campfires allowed As is the setting: small and secluded Holyrood Farm Campsite is in Dorset countryside overlooking the Blackmore Vale, within easy walking distance of the pubs and shops of Shaftesbury. It's close to several good footpaths for walking too. 10 minute walk to the famous Gold Hill.

17. Red Sky at Night Campsite

99%

(35)

139km from Poole · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Monmouth, Wales

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see at least one of the amazing sunsets at Red Sky at Night Campsite near Monmouth – but if you don’t, there’s mighty compensation in the shape of the spectacular views from just about everywhere on the site. And of course, on clear nights, the night skies are diamond-bright with stars - we are under one of Wales' Dark Sky Reserves! This family-run camping field on a livestock farm is managed on very laidback lines. Pitch up wherever you like and feel free to park by your tent (weather permitting). Raised campfires are allowed and you can hire firepits and grills (the owners sell local eggs & sausages) and buy bags of wood & kindling. You can bring your dogs too (take them for walks in the adjoining woods) but just be sure to keep them on a lead. Kids are certainly carefully looked after here. Get a fact sheet on arrival and join mini-campers in wildlife hunts through the trees, looking out all the while for buzzards and red kites. Round and about the site, your offspring can entertain themselves on rope swings, making dens and following a mini-tractor course across the camping field. There’s also a football pitch. Wild camping this may be (there’s no electricity on site, please note) but there are two nicely designed compost loos and a covered sink areas with fresh water tap. So bring your guitar, light that fire, break out the barbecue and enjoy the chilled vibe.

18. Paddington Farm

93%

(29)

69km from Poole · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Glastonbury, Somerset, South West England

A simple campsite at the foot of Glastonbury Tor

19. Berries Farm Camping

100%

(37)

68km from Poole · 31 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England

Berries Farm Camping is a small eco-friendly family-run campsite, located in the heart of West Dorset Countryside. We are situated at the top of Lyme Regis, on the A3052. Set amongst 5 acres of picturesque farmland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within walking distance to Charmouth, which is part of the World Heritage Coast. With your own spacious camping spot, enjoy the panoramic views of the rolling hills of Lyme Regis. We provide generous grass only pitches for tents and camper-vans. These are unpowered sites. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate for caravans. Nearby attractions include the Jurrasic Coast, quaint market towns and local pubs serving farm fresh food and local seafood. Enjoy River Cottage HQ for a cookery course and get a taste of local cuisine. Also near by is Lyme Regis driving range, golf course and foot-golf. If you fancy exploring Lyme Regis, take the park and ride which is within a short walking distance South of the farm. If walking is more your thing, there is an abundance of local footpaths including the south west coastal path, with Lyme Regis just 1 mile away. Our amenities include flushing toilets and hot water shower blocks. A designated space is avaliable for washing dirty dishes. Be advised that only cold water is provided. BBQ's are permitted; however, they must raised off the ground to prevent damage to the grass. Bricks will be provided for this purpose. Please note that campfires are now allowed at this time. Please feel free to bring your pets, but bear in mind there will be sheep on the farm. Our “what3words” for Berries farm is: ///lives.grandest.honeybees https://w3w.co/lives.grandest.honeybees) Postcode: DT7 3UE (this will NOT take you directly to the farm, please follow the ''what3words'' above) Latitude, Longitude: 50.740819, -2.936091 You’ll share 5 acres of land surrounded by a further 15 acres of beautiful hillside farmland for you to enjoy.

20. Wonton Park Camping

100%

(11)

133km from Poole · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Totnes, England

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

Camper favorites near Poole

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Abbey Home Farm

94%

(218)

111km from Poole · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cirencester, Gloucestershire, South West England

Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.

Penn Meadow Farm

91%

(233)

133km from Poole · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England

Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.

Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%

(59)

101km from Poole · 1 unit · Glamping · Berkshire, South East England

A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.

Holyrood Farm Campsite

97%

(33)

33km from Poole · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Shaftesbury, England

Wild camping half a mile from Shaftesbury Spectacular views over the Blackmore Vale Campfires allowed As is the setting: small and secluded Holyrood Farm Campsite is in Dorset countryside overlooking the Blackmore Vale, within easy walking distance of the pubs and shops of Shaftesbury. It's close to several good footpaths for walking too. 10 minute walk to the famous Gold Hill.

Red Sky at Night Campsite

99%

(35)

139km from Poole · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Monmouth, Wales

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see at least one of the amazing sunsets at Red Sky at Night Campsite near Monmouth – but if you don’t, there’s mighty compensation in the shape of the spectacular views from just about everywhere on the site. And of course, on clear nights, the night skies are diamond-bright with stars - we are under one of Wales' Dark Sky Reserves! This family-run camping field on a livestock farm is managed on very laidback lines. Pitch up wherever you like and feel free to park by your tent (weather permitting). Raised campfires are allowed and you can hire firepits and grills (the owners sell local eggs & sausages) and buy bags of wood & kindling. You can bring your dogs too (take them for walks in the adjoining woods) but just be sure to keep them on a lead. Kids are certainly carefully looked after here. Get a fact sheet on arrival and join mini-campers in wildlife hunts through the trees, looking out all the while for buzzards and red kites. Round and about the site, your offspring can entertain themselves on rope swings, making dens and following a mini-tractor course across the camping field. There’s also a football pitch. Wild camping this may be (there’s no electricity on site, please note) but there are two nicely designed compost loos and a covered sink areas with fresh water tap. So bring your guitar, light that fire, break out the barbecue and enjoy the chilled vibe.

Paddington Farm

93%

(29)

69km from Poole · 20 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Glastonbury, Somerset, South West England

A simple campsite at the foot of Glastonbury Tor

Berries Farm Camping

100%

(37)

68km from Poole · 31 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England

Berries Farm Camping is a small eco-friendly family-run campsite, located in the heart of West Dorset Countryside. We are situated at the top of Lyme Regis, on the A3052. Set amongst 5 acres of picturesque farmland, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and within walking distance to Charmouth, which is part of the World Heritage Coast. With your own spacious camping spot, enjoy the panoramic views of the rolling hills of Lyme Regis. We provide generous grass only pitches for tents and camper-vans. These are unpowered sites. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate for caravans. Nearby attractions include the Jurrasic Coast, quaint market towns and local pubs serving farm fresh food and local seafood. Enjoy River Cottage HQ for a cookery course and get a taste of local cuisine. Also near by is Lyme Regis driving range, golf course and foot-golf. If you fancy exploring Lyme Regis, take the park and ride which is within a short walking distance South of the farm. If walking is more your thing, there is an abundance of local footpaths including the south west coastal path, with Lyme Regis just 1 mile away. Our amenities include flushing toilets and hot water shower blocks. A designated space is avaliable for washing dirty dishes. Be advised that only cold water is provided. BBQ's are permitted; however, they must raised off the ground to prevent damage to the grass. Bricks will be provided for this purpose. Please note that campfires are now allowed at this time. Please feel free to bring your pets, but bear in mind there will be sheep on the farm. Our “what3words” for Berries farm is: ///lives.grandest.honeybees https://w3w.co/lives.grandest.honeybees) Postcode: DT7 3UE (this will NOT take you directly to the farm, please follow the ''what3words'' above) Latitude, Longitude: 50.740819, -2.936091 You’ll share 5 acres of land surrounded by a further 15 acres of beautiful hillside farmland for you to enjoy.

Wonton Park Camping

100%

(11)

133km from Poole · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Totnes, England

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

Stories from the community

C

Catherine

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

This is the ultimate weekend getaway. Jane and the family are fabulous hosts. Everything was so incredibly clean, and there was so many personal touches from fresh bread to handmade soaps. The view of the property from the cabin was truly spectacular. Would definitely stay again ☺️✨

H

Hugh

November 2025

5 m Class B

2 nights at Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

Had a lovely stay at Peter and Celia’s farm. Despite the weather not being on my side the views were beautiful over rolling hills and woods. Both Celia and Peter were very welcoming and helpful. I’d definitely stay again if I’m in the area

S

Siubhan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Penn Meadow Farm

Amazing views over the hills with red kites, gorgeous horses in the next door field and really friendly sheep dogs. Gorgeous shower block which make you feel like you’re in a boutique hotel! 200m walk to fantastic pub with great food and fires. Can’t wait to go back

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

O

Oscar

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Old Litten

Charlotte’s land was a brilliant spot perfectly located with a beautiful view. Had everything we needed for our one night stay and we had a great time thanks to it.

I

Ian

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Old Litten

What an incredible find! Lovely views, lovely people nearby and the host was so friendly and welcoming. We will absolutely be back!

H

Harry

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Hill Wild Camping

A great camp and we would definitely stay here again!

G

Geert

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Old Litten

A truly beautiful place to stay – so charming and full of character. And then there’s Charlotte, the hostess: such a warm and welcoming person, with a genuine passion that shines through in her wonderful camper spot. The surrounding region is perfect for both walking and gravel riding. For food and drinks, head to the pub just around the corner (“The Pub with No Name” aka The White Horse). It’s incredibly authentic and serves excellent cuisine.

Abbie

October 2025

5 m car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wild Camping in the Cotswolds

What an amazing place! Thanks so much for having us. Cant tell you how relaxing it was having space for our dog to run about off lead, she LOVED it. Views are incredible too!

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!

A

Andrew

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Hill Wild Camping

Excellent spot. Big field with individual plots, most had benches. Excellent pub a short walk down the hill.

T

Ty

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Spring Hill Wild Camping

Great views, simple back to basic's camping. Friendly host, would highly recommend

A

April

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sweet Hill Farm

Lovely short walk to the lighthouses and great flat ground for camping. The team were super friendly and helpful when are car battery died!

R

Rachel

October 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

We had the most wonderful stay at this little countryside getaway! From the moment we arrived, Jane was absolutely incredible - so kind, welcoming, and full of helpful information about the lodge and surrounding area. She’d thought of everything, leaving clear instructions for how everything worked, which made our stay effortless and relaxing. The thoughtful touches really made it special - from the freshly baked bread to the delicious shortbread cookies, everything felt homely and made with love. The setting itself was pure peace and quiet, surrounded by nothing but cows, trees, and the soft sounds of nature. It was the perfect place to switch off, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the calm of the countryside. We honestly didn’t want to leave - a hidden gem that we’d return to in a heartbeat!

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

A

Angela

October 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweet Hill Farm

I have always loved Sweet Hill Farm. It’s a lovely relaxed campsite with sea views and amazing walks nearby. Also, being able to have a camp fire is fantastic. The showers are brilliant too. The only disappointment for me this year is that the compost loos have been replaced with horrible portaloos! Please bring back compost loos, they are so much nicer!

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.

E

Eren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My girlfriend and I had a lovely stay at Little Fleece to celebrate her birthday. The hot tub was lovely and we made some great pizzas using the pizza oven. Jane and Dave were brilliant hosts - it was lovey to meet you both! The homemade bread and biscuits were a lovely touch. Thank you!

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.

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Spring Hill Wild Camping

The space is really beautiful and the views are great. It has very basic amenities but it’s the kind of place I like. Being next door to the animals was also a great and entertaining bonus. It’s a short walk to the local village entirely down forest paths if you wish, with a fantastic pub. It’s a particularly nice place to stay out of season when the autumn colours settle in.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views campsites near Poole guide

Where to go

Isle of Purbeck

Forming the southern coast of Poole Harbour, the Purbeck peninsula is fringed by steep limestone cliffs and spectacular coastal walks. Hike across the sea cliffs of Old Harry Rocks, discover the atmospheric ruins of Corfe Castle, or admire the views from the Swanage steam railway. Camping along the peninsula takes you back to nature, whether staying in a forest lodge or parking your motorhome on a working farm.

Jurassic Coast

West of Purbeck, Dorset’s UNESCO-listed Jurassic Coast—so-called for the dinosaur fossils found on its beaches—stretches all the way to Orcombe Point. The coastal hikes here are some of the most impressive in the UK, with soaring cliffs, crumbling castle ruins, and sandy coves. Marvel at landmarks such as the Durdle Door, stay at ocean-view campsites along the way, and don’t forget to sample the region’s famous ale, a staple in local pubs.

Cranborne Chase

Escape to the countryside in the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Area AONB, just a 30-minute drive north of Poole. Enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides through the downlands, admire wildflowers and rare orchids, and camp amid patchwork farmlands. To the north, the ancient stone circle of Stonehenge is within day-trip distance, while to the south, the Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is a favorite for families.

When to go

May through October has the most pleasant weather for camping in Poole, and the beaches draw big crowds in July and August. Be sure to book ahead if you plan to visit at this time. Winter campers can keep Poole on their itinerary, too. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing and sunny days are still common—just swap your tent for a motorhome or caravan.

Know before you go

Poole has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
Poole has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and attractions, 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 Dorset.