Camping in Sussex

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From the buzzing seaside resort of Brighton to the wild landscapes of the South Downs National Park, Sussex sets the stage for a country getaway—all within a 2-hour drive of London. Hike along white-chalk sea cliffs, picnic on the grounds of a medieval castle, or stroll along pebble beaches with views across to the Isle of Wight. Here the quaint countryside gives way to Sussex’s quirky and cool seaside resorts—plus, camping in Sussex is all about variety. Choose a woodland, river valley, or farmland backdrop; pitch your tent right by the beachside; or check into a glampsite and spend a night in a treehouse, luxury yurt, or gypsy caravan. The south-coast location means Sussex benefits from some of the best weather in the UK, too.

97% (2.3K) 3,241 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Sussex

Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

1. Oak Valley Lodges & Camping

90%
(40)
England · 32 units
At Oak Valley Campsite, simplicity and space are part of the charm. Tucked among ancient oaks in the gentle countryside of Pett, East Sussex, this peaceful spot is all about traditional camping. Pitches are generous, grassy, and flat – ideal for tents and campers who like room to breathe. There are hot showers, proper loos, and fresh water on tap. At night, toast marshmallows around a hired fire pit, watch the stars, and enjoy the quiet. Explore local walks, pop down to Winchelsea Beach, or lose a few hours in the pretty streets of Rye, just 15 minutes away. Need to know: - No electric hook-up - Family-friendly & dog-friendly - Fire pits and logs available - Check-in from 2 pm
Pets
Campfires
Showers
The Barn KT9

2. The Barn KT9

97%
(297)
Chessington, England · 16 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Littleton Farm Campsite

3. Littleton Farm Campsite

94%
(33)
Upwaltham, England · 20 units
Nestled in a valley on the South Downs Way, Littleton Farm Campsite offers a secluded spot for enjoying the countryside. Welcoming tent campers only, the site offers non electric pitches with plenty of space for everyone to have some peace and quiet. Grab breakfast from the onsite Cadence Cafe, spend days exploring picturesque walking routes and evenings by the campfire. Arundel and Chichester are within 20 minutes drive. A great base for exploring the South Downs and all that West Sussex has to offer. For events at Goodwood or for walkers and cyclists on the South Downs Way, the site is also an ideal spot for escaping the crowds. There are 20 non electric grass pitches onsite, each welcoming tents only. Each pitch allows up to six guests, with plenty of space for tents and gazebos with no extra charges other than on a per-person basis. Unloading is allowed by the pitches with parking in the designated car park. Wake up to fantastic rural views and grab a bite to eat from the onsite cafe, which also serves a delicious cup of coffee. Days can be spent enjoying long walks in beautiful open countryside, exploring the charming nearby towns and villages, or down by the coast, only 25 minutes away. In the evenings, guests can cook up a BBQ or relax by the campfire. Please note, the site is dog free.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Pett Coastal Camping

4. Pett Coastal Camping

Hastings, England · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Simple pop-up pitches in 11 acres of farm fields on the East Sussex coast **OPENS 2nd - 28th AUGUST**. ONLY BOOKINGS FOR THESE DATES CAN BE TAKEN. Drinking water taps Compostable toilet in field Small shop on farm site, (milk, eggs, apple juice, yoghurt) Back to nature star-gazing opportunities Open field camping Very low light pollution Large meadow, pick your own pitch on the grass Pett Level beach 10 mins walk Hastings and Rye only a 15 minute drive away Camber sands 25 mins away Families welcome Sorry no dogs please as on a working sheep farm Perfect for tents and campervans, off grid camping No electricity or grey waste facilities here Nestled within the green rolling hills of Pett, Lunsford Farm opens its flowery meadows for the month of August once more. This is an unique opportunity to enjoy the East Sussex coast overlooking the expansive seashore of Pett Level under the stars on ancient meadow farmland. If you enjoy the proper simple camping experience, you will be in your element! The pebbly and sandy beach of Pett (10 mins walk down the hill) offers a refreshing dip and during low tide an array of rock pools are waiting to be explored in the 6500 year old sunken forest. There are ample places to feed hungry tummies, either at the beachfront cafe, weekend food truck, or up in the village at one of the two pubs that serve great food. The simple shop in the farmyard stocks fresh eggs from the farm’s own chickens, local milk, yogurt, and apple juice from the farm’s orchard. There are also logs to purchase for your campfire. Campfires are permitted as long as they are raised off the ground so as not to burn the ancient grassland which does not repair. We are happy to be able to offer a small number of firepits to hire for a returnable deposit, or bring your own to avoid missing out. With no nearby lights, light pollution is low which makes for a stunning starry nights sky when cloud conditions allow. You will be utterly amazed how many stars you can see, and perhaps discover new ones. A five minute walk (you will need torches for night walking) brings you to the village of Pett. Here you can enjoy a relaxing pint or a good meal at the Royal Oak pub, visit the Tic Tokory tea shop or hang out in the play park in the cricket/recreational field. There is also the Two Sawyers pub 5 mins further on that serves excellent food. As the campsite is situated within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it can function as a great base for a multitude of walks or bike rides, vineyard tours, or just a general ramble around the towns of Rye, Winchelsea, Old Town Hastings or further afield.
Campfires
Potable water
Lordington Park Camping

5. Lordington Park Camping

100%
(51)
Chichester · 16 units
Set on glorious parkland in the middle of the South Downs National Park, Lordington Park really is a wonderful countryside escape. A 15 minutes’ drive from Chichester, our rustic camping field has views over rolling countryside. Spectacular sunsets and sunrises can be expected on cloudless days. Escape the hustle and bustle of every day life in our peaceful rural campsite, with spacious grass pitches big enough for you to have lots of private space. Each pitch has a firepit for barbecues, and there is access to composting toilets, a shower block with warm water, and fresh drinking water. Please note there is no electricity on this simple site. Vehicles are not allowed to park on the camping field, but parking is provided a stone’s throw away. Wheelbarrows are provided to help you get your kit from car to tent. Countryside walks and cycle paths lead directly from your pitch. There are several pubs in the local area – the nearest being 10 minutes’ stroll away. We have a tea room on site, open Thursday - Sunday 10am-3pm. Near by local attractions: Goodwood Weald and downland museum West wittering beach Hayling island Portsmouth historic dockyard Chichester festival theatre Arundel castle Cowdray park Various national trust property’s And many more…
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Old Litten

6. Old Litten

99%
(74)
Petersfield, England · 1 unit
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.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Far and Away Camping

7. Far and Away Camping

100%
(46)
England · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Camping at Tomkins Farm

8. Camping at Tomkins Farm

96%
(175)
North Chailey, England · 41 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Relaxed camping beside a lake on an East Sussex farm, with alpacas, llamas, and camels
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

9. Cattlestone Farm Adult Only

97%
(123)
Pulborough, England · 56 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Friendly camping and glamping on a Sussex farm, with animals to meet, a pond to swim in, and the South Downs nearby.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Ditchling Boutique Camping

10. Ditchling Boutique Camping

88%
(24)
Ditchling, England · 100 units
Hunker down in a historic village, surrounded by vineyards, hilly countryside and some rather spectacular views. With Ditchling Camping as your base, you’ll be on track for rural bike rides or visiting Brighton and its busy coast 25 minutes’ drive away. That’s because this dog-friendly site is in Ditchling – a village in the splendid South Downs National Park and a rather excellent location for all sorts of days out. Good news if the whole family is tagging along: there’s plenty to play with around the site, including an adventure trail through the woodlands, a swing tree and places for kids to fashion their own little dens. The site is only a five-minute drive (or a 30-minute walk) from the traditional Jack and Jill windmills and the neighbouring family-run pub, which serves both grub and good ales. A vineyard is 15 minutes’ walk away from the site if you'd like to include a wine-tasting tour on your break. Otherwise, simply pedal along country lanes on the surrounding cycling routes (it’s easy enough to hire a bike locally). On your route, you might want to stop by in characterful Ditchling, home to local craftspeople and winemakers. There’s a nice selection of independent shops here, plus cosy cafés and pubs that will serve you a good spread of Sussex food, all within a 5-minute walk. Back on site, end the day with a cosy evening beside the fire-pits. The site facilities are nicely straightforward otherwise and include warm showers and a separate dishwashing area and of course our newly installed Composting Toilets.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Glassenbury Camping

11. Glassenbury Camping

99%
(71)
Cranbrook, England · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco camping in the heart of the High Weald and Kent's castle country
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hook Farm Campsite

12. Hook Farm Campsite

98%
(212)
East Grinstead, England · 13 units
Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Chalky Downs

13. Chalky Downs

96%
(610)
Brighton, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Hale Farm

14. Hale Farm

100%
(155)
Chiddingly, England · 38 units · Tents, Glamping
A family-run, working farm in East Sussex offering spacious, traditional camping with no set pitches
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Woodlands Camping

15. Woodlands Camping

97%
(115)
Ropley, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

16. Sindles Farm Glamping and Camping

100%
(15)
Emsworth · 9 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a small, friendly site on a working farm in the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have shepherds huts, bell tents and a land pod in an old sheep paddock, all with private fire pits. We’re surrounded by footpaths and bridleways that can be explored all day, and 10 minutes drive from the sea. We also have a small grass-pitch campsite that opens in the summer for tents and camper vans.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Beech Estate Campsite

17. Beech Estate Campsite

97%
(193)
Battle, England · 52 units · Tents, Glamping
Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Otter Channel Campsite

18. Otter Channel Campsite

95%
(161)
East Sussex, England · 15 units
Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

19. Small Meadow Campsite, Fairlight

100%
(21)
Fairlight, England · 4 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Reconnect with nature, gently. Welcome to our low-impact, off-grid campsite nestled within a working permaculture fruit and herb farm. Here, a small flock of sheep graze as part of an ongoing project to restore a wildflower meadow. The land is alive with colour, birdsong and butterflies—and you’re invited to experience it at your own peaceful pace. 🌿 Space to breathe Only two pitches are available at any time (up to 8 people per pitch). Each pitch has: Private fire pit overlooking wide countryside views PLEASE NOTE the fire pits are on the top of the field near the woodland edge. Camping area (with views) on the lower slope near the shower and main compost toilet Retreat into the woodland strip at the top of the field—perfect for hammocks, hammock tents, shade in summer, quiet chats and listening to the wind through the trees. There are some hammocks already up for campers to enjoy.. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Large communal group tent now included - for shade, to escape rain or just chill out in. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £280 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £25 pppn Make the farm yours..... 🌄 Views worth waking up for: From the fire pits you’ll see far-reaching countryside views, and just a short walk away on Mountain Field or at The Balehouse (Hastings Country Park café) you’ll find truly breathtaking scenes over Rye Bay. Nature is the heartbeat here—bluebells in May, orchard blossoms, butterflies drifting through the herbs, and birdsong that wraps around the woodland. At night, the skies open up to the stars; in the morning, you’ll wake to dew-kissed grass and the first rays of sun. 🧘‍♀️ A slower kind of camping Bring a yoga mat, greet the day on the deck, cook outdoors, walk the cliffs, or unwind under the trees. Gather friends and family for a fire, BBQ, or a giant picnic—this field was made for simple, shared moments. 📌 Practical Notes Working farm: the farmer and WWOOFers are on site in areas separate from camping facilities. Exclusive use refers to the campsite areas, not the entire farm. Please bring your own drinking water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Lagnersh camping

20. Lagnersh camping

78%
(105)
Bognor Regis, England · 75 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Dog-friendly camping near Chichester and the West Sussex coast
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Sussex camping guide

Where to go

East Sussex

The coastal cities of Hastings and Eastbourne are perennial favourites for summer campers. Walk the sea cliffs, hit the beach to kayak or windsurf, or venture inland to explore medieval battlefields. The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty blankets much of the countryside, with nearly 1,500 miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails to discover. The ancient woodlands of the High Weald are a fantastic place to see amazing displays of bluebells in springtime, and here, campers can find woodland campsites, farm sites, and places where you can have a campfire.

West Sussex

Brighton is Sussex’s flagship resort and the day-trip destination of choice for sun-seeking Londoners. Continue along the coast to traditional seaside towns like Worthing and Shoreham, enjoy woodland walks or river kayaking in the South Downs National Park, then park your campervan at a tranquil country campsite. Stretching from Winchester in Hampshire to Eastbourne, the rolling hills and Chalky Downs that characterise South Downs cut a swathe across almost all of Sussex. There are plenty of campsites in the park, many within easy reach of the 100-mile South Downs Way.

Surrey

Southwest of London, Surrey’s country estates and historic towns sit among miles of picturesque countryside. Come in spring to experience the region’s many parks and gardens in full bloom, take a cruise along the River Thames, or head into the Surrey Hills to hike the North Downs Way national trail. It’s just as good for a quick camping fix at the weekend as it is for a week-long summer camping holiday.

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight

Winchester is Hampshire’s headline act, with its medieval cathedral and lively street markets. Outside the city, head to the New Forest National Park to walk, camp, and admire the free-roaming herds of wild ponies. Along the coast, there’s beachside camping at Barton on Sea and Milford-on-Sea, and ferries set sail for the Isle of Wight.

Family-friendly camping in Sussex

Adults-only sites aside, camping is kid-friendly more often than not. It doesn’t really matter if there’s a playground—children tend to take to camping like ducks to water. Plus, many campsites do have kid-friendly facilities and special activities—think nature trails, forest school activities, or storytelling sessions. Some have tree swings, and farm sites may have the opportunity to meet some farm animals. Apart from all this fun, Sussex houses plenty of kid-friendly attractions, from English Heritage sites like Battle Abbey to seaside funfairs in Hastings and Brighton. You might like to visit Drusillas Park too, a zoo with lots of play areas.

Popular places to visit in Sussex

During your camping holiday in Sussex, you may just fancy sitting by the campfire and gazing at the scenery. But if you do want to get out and about, there are plenty of places to visit.

  • Brighton is popular for its pier, pavilion, and lively cultural scene.
  • East along the coast, Eastbourne and Hastings are other seaside resorts worth a visit for ice cream, amusements ,and Victorian architecture.
  • The towns of Rye, Lewes, and Battle are all charming spots with fascinating histories. In Battle, you can visit the site of the Battle of Hastings and the nearby Herstmonceux Observatory Science Centre for hands-on activities.
  • Nature lovers love Knepp Wildland, a 500-acre rewilding project in West Sussex.
  • The National Trust has a number of properties in Sussex including Sheffield Park and Gardens and the moated Bodiam Castle.
  • Heritage railways are popular, too—the Bluebell Railway and Kent and East Sussex Railway can be great days out for all ages.

Frequently Asked Questions

From the buzzing seaside resort of Brighton to the wild landscapes of the South Downs National Park, Sussex sets the stage for a country getaway—all within a 2-hour drive of London. Hike along white-chalk sea cliffs, picnic on the grounds of a medieval castle, or stroll along pebble beaches with views across to the Isle of Wight. Here the quaint countryside gives way to Sussex’s quirky and cool seaside resorts—plus, camping in Sussex is all about variety. Choose a woodland, river valley, or farmland backdrop; pitch your tent right by the beachside; or check into a glampsite and spend a night in a treehouse, luxury yurt, or gypsy caravan. The south-coast location means Sussex benefits from some of the best weather in the UK, too. You can also explore different options for camping near Sussex on Hipcamp.

During your camping holiday in Sussex, you may just fancy sitting by the campfire and gazing at the scenery. But if you do want to get out and about, there are plenty of places to visit. Brighton is popular for its pier, pavilion, and lively cultural scene. East along the coast, Eastbourne and Hastings are other seaside resorts worth a visit for ice cream, amusements, and Victorian architecture. The towns of Rye, Lewes, and Battle are all charming spots with fascinating histories. In Battle, you can visit the site of the Battle of Hastings and the nearby Herstmonceux Observatory Science Centre for hands-on activities. Nature lovers love Knepp Wildland, a 500-acre rewilding project in West Sussex. The National Trust has a number of properties in Sussex including Sheffield Park and Gardens and the moated Bodiam Castle. Heritage railways are popular, too—the Bluebell Railway and Kent and East Sussex Railway can be great days out for all ages. Adults-only sites aside, camping is kid-friendly more often than not. It doesn’t really matter if there’s a playground—children tend to take to camping like ducks to water. Plus, many campsites do have kid-friendly facilities and special activities—think nature trails, forest school activities, or storytelling sessions. Some have tree swings, and farm sites may have the opportunity to meet some farm animals. Apart from all this fun, Sussex houses plenty of kid-friendly attractions, from English Heritage sites like Battle Abbey to seaside funfairs in Hastings and Brighton. You might like to visit Drusillas Park too, a zoo with lots of play areas. The coastal cities of Hastings and Eastbourne are perennial favourites for summer campers. Walk the sea cliffs, hit the beach to kayak or windsurf, or venture inland to explore medieval battlefields. The High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty blankets much of the countryside, with nearly 1,500 miles of hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails to discover. The ancient woodlands of the High Weald are a fantastic place to see amazing displays of bluebells in springtime, and here, campers can find woodland campsites, farm sites, and places where you can have a campfire.

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

Top counties in and near Sussex