Woodland campsites in Watergate Bay

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For those looking to escape the crowds of Newquay, the golden sands of Watergate Bay lie just to the north. Life in Watergate Bay is all about the beach. Stroll along the sea cliffs, take to the water to swim or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy kite-surfing along the 2-mile long sands, then grab dinner at a restaurant with views of the ocean. Summertime is peak season for swimmers and campers, with lifeguard patrols from May through September, and several campsites to choose from. For surfers, the biggest swells hit the shore in winter—just don’t forget your wetsuit!

88% (187)

Top-rated campgrounds near Watergate Bay

3. Cornish Tipi Holidays & Camping

97%
(147)
168 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cornwall, South West England
Wake up to the sound of birdsong, go swimming before breakfast in the clear water of a secluded lake. Cook your bacon and eggs over an open fire while you plan your day, or just laze it away in the peace and quiet of your own personal tipi. You can always go fishing tomorrow, and walk along the cliffs the day after that… The site is a unique woodland valley folded around a clear, spring-fed lake created from the old Tregildrans Quarry. Our tipis and tent pitches are dotted about this secret 20 acres full of ferns, bluebells, oak and meadowsweet. Left in peace for many years there's been no modern chemicals or poisons on the land, meaning we've got bluebells, dormice, Red Admirals and shy woodland Jays for you to spot. It’s a place set apart from the rush and clutter of the modern holiday experience, with an atmosphere that makes you forget the world outside, and just lounge, ramble, or potter about in a boat. We're committed to giving you a genuinely individual service from first contact to your time staying with us. We established CTH in 1996. This was the first and we believe still is the best tipi holiday site in the UK. We know our area inside out and can always help with local knowledge or contacts if you need them. We want to offer our guests a sustainable holiday. A return to real camping means the lowest possible impact on the land and environment - our tipi poles don’t even break the surface of the earth. Your footprint while here could only be bettered by a survival expert. You don't have to fly! a major bonus, and we source all our wood, fish and canvas locally and work with local people wherever possible.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night

5. Tregonetha Lake

97%
(16)
26 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England
Open 3rd July - 31st August 2026 Mel and Tom are excited to welcome you to our charming, eco-friendly camping and glamping site, proudly awarded a Silver Green Tourism accolade. Passionate about sharing this special corner of Cornwall, we hope our tranquil surroundings will help you unwind, relax, and immerse yourself in nature. With stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, our site is the perfect escape. Mel has called Cornwall home for over 20 years and is always happy to share her local knowledge with guests, while Tom, a seasoned surfer, can offer advice on the best surf spots based on the weather and swell conditions. Friendly and approachable, we’re here to ensure your stay is enjoyable and memorable, surrounded by great company and a welcoming atmosphere. Tregonetha Lake is a small, peaceful, off grid site surrounded by wild and natural, Cornish countryside and open farmland, including a beautiful 2 acre coarse fishing Lake. Fishing is an extra cost of £10 per adult day ticket, £5 per child day ticket. Just 9 miles from Mawgan Porth, 10 miles from Padstow, 11 miles from Newquay and 15 miles from Mevagissey it’s the perfect place to get away from it all, while still being within easy reach of some of the most popular holiday destinations on both the north and south coasts of Cornwall. Traditional Camping for tents and camper vans is available in our 2 acre field where you can choose where you want to pitch. Glamping in bell tents is also available. Tregonetha Lake is a small campsite with a big impact. Wild, natural and peaceful with pitches overlooking our beautiful 2 acre lake or in our small woodland. Great for a summer holiday, a weekend break or overnight stop off.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night

18. Foxhole Glade Eco-Campsite

25 units · Tents · England
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)
Pets
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night

20. Tree Tent Experience Camp- Cornwall

3 units · Tents · Callington, England
Take camping to the next level with our off-grid and eco-friendly Tree tent Experience Camp (TEC). Within 40 acres of Cornish ancient woodland, TEC offers a unique escape: three Safari tree tents, each accommodating up to three people, are suspended discreetly between trees and provide intimate yet communal spaces, letting you enjoy nature’s symphony as you sleep amidst the treetops. Elevate your camping experience with TEC, where each night is an opportunity to sleep between the trees and create memories that swing far beyond the ordinary. In addition to the tree tents, our TEC ensures your wilderness adventure doesn’t compromise on comfort. We provide a communal area weather-proofed using a large parachute under which we provide a Quirky wood burner made from repurposed wheel hubs to keep you toasty and seating crafted from locally sourced Oak timber. There is also a simple BBQ grill. Further shelter is provided by our large tarp-covered A-frame, furnished with a bench and further seating lovingly built by your hosts, offering perfect spots to share stories and revel in the magic of the forest. Essential amenities include a sustainable composting toilet with rain-fed handwashing facilities, including eco-friendly handwash, a supply of drinking water, first aid kit, firelighters, heat glove and fire extinguisher, BBQ implements and a store of seasoned firewood. Rather than renting out the three tree tents separately as pitches, we only allow for exclusive bookings. Thus, it will only be you and your friends, family or colleagues who will be having a tree tent experience. You will have exclusive-use of the fire area underneath the parachute, the A-frame shelter and the composting toilet. You can also explore the 40-acres of the ancient Cornish woodland that is Caradon Wood, some of which is rare Atlantic or Temperate rainforest. A 15-minute walk down the slope brings you to the River Lyhner and there are nice little wild swimming spots on the bends of this river with its source close-by on Bodmin Moor. Once you book you will be sent directions to Caradon Wood along with a full kit list: what we provide and what you need to bring along. You will be met at our Base Camp parking area by one of your hosts, either Phil or Aydin. They will show you to your tree tent/s and provide you with an overview of the facilities and the woods. The cost per tree tent is £75/night for up to three people. Additional adults are £25/night Check in from 14:00- check out is 12:00 Dogs- FREE but not in the tent please (Please pick up after your four-legged companion) Please feel free to ask any questions as we are determined that everyone has that perfect wellbeing in Nature experience. Bodmin Moor is on your doorstep and the 17-mile Caradon Bike Trail passes close by the woods and allows you to explore this beautiful part of south-east Cornwall. Our social enterprise's mission is to boost and improve the wellbeing of people and planet and this tree tent experience provides you with that opportunity whilst financially contributing to our enterprise's work to sustainably manage Caradon Wood and to provide experiences that are open to ALL. We are committed to the W.H.O.'s One health Agenda: we are all part of Nature and not apart from it and we hope that your stay will strengthen this connection with Nature.
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
£75
 / night

For those looking to escape the crowds of Newquay, the golden sands of Watergate Bay lie just to the north. Life in Watergate Bay is all about the beach. Stroll along the sea cliffs, take to the water to swim or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy kite-surfing along the 2-mile long sands, then grab dinner at a restaurant with views of the ocean. Summertime is peak season for swimmers and campers, with lifeguard patrols from May through September, and several campsites to choose from. For surfers, the biggest swells hit the shore in winter—just don’t forget your wetsuit!

88% (187)

Top-rated campgrounds near Watergate Bay

3. Cornish Tipi Holidays & Camping

97%
(147)
168 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Cornwall, South West England
Wake up to the sound of birdsong, go swimming before breakfast in the clear water of a secluded lake. Cook your bacon and eggs over an open fire while you plan your day, or just laze it away in the peace and quiet of your own personal tipi. You can always go fishing tomorrow, and walk along the cliffs the day after that… The site is a unique woodland valley folded around a clear, spring-fed lake created from the old Tregildrans Quarry. Our tipis and tent pitches are dotted about this secret 20 acres full of ferns, bluebells, oak and meadowsweet. Left in peace for many years there's been no modern chemicals or poisons on the land, meaning we've got bluebells, dormice, Red Admirals and shy woodland Jays for you to spot. It’s a place set apart from the rush and clutter of the modern holiday experience, with an atmosphere that makes you forget the world outside, and just lounge, ramble, or potter about in a boat. We're committed to giving you a genuinely individual service from first contact to your time staying with us. We established CTH in 1996. This was the first and we believe still is the best tipi holiday site in the UK. We know our area inside out and can always help with local knowledge or contacts if you need them. We want to offer our guests a sustainable holiday. A return to real camping means the lowest possible impact on the land and environment - our tipi poles don’t even break the surface of the earth. Your footprint while here could only be bettered by a survival expert. You don't have to fly! a major bonus, and we source all our wood, fish and canvas locally and work with local people wherever possible.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night

5. Tregonetha Lake

97%
(16)
26 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England
Open 3rd July - 31st August 2026 Mel and Tom are excited to welcome you to our charming, eco-friendly camping and glamping site, proudly awarded a Silver Green Tourism accolade. Passionate about sharing this special corner of Cornwall, we hope our tranquil surroundings will help you unwind, relax, and immerse yourself in nature. With stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, our site is the perfect escape. Mel has called Cornwall home for over 20 years and is always happy to share her local knowledge with guests, while Tom, a seasoned surfer, can offer advice on the best surf spots based on the weather and swell conditions. Friendly and approachable, we’re here to ensure your stay is enjoyable and memorable, surrounded by great company and a welcoming atmosphere. Tregonetha Lake is a small, peaceful, off grid site surrounded by wild and natural, Cornish countryside and open farmland, including a beautiful 2 acre coarse fishing Lake. Fishing is an extra cost of £10 per adult day ticket, £5 per child day ticket. Just 9 miles from Mawgan Porth, 10 miles from Padstow, 11 miles from Newquay and 15 miles from Mevagissey it’s the perfect place to get away from it all, while still being within easy reach of some of the most popular holiday destinations on both the north and south coasts of Cornwall. Traditional Camping for tents and camper vans is available in our 2 acre field where you can choose where you want to pitch. Glamping in bell tents is also available. Tregonetha Lake is a small campsite with a big impact. Wild, natural and peaceful with pitches overlooking our beautiful 2 acre lake or in our small woodland. Great for a summer holiday, a weekend break or overnight stop off.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£13
 / night

18. Foxhole Glade Eco-Campsite

25 units · Tents · England
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)
Pets
Campfires
from 
£15
 / night

20. Tree Tent Experience Camp- Cornwall

3 units · Tents · Callington, England
Take camping to the next level with our off-grid and eco-friendly Tree tent Experience Camp (TEC). Within 40 acres of Cornish ancient woodland, TEC offers a unique escape: three Safari tree tents, each accommodating up to three people, are suspended discreetly between trees and provide intimate yet communal spaces, letting you enjoy nature’s symphony as you sleep amidst the treetops. Elevate your camping experience with TEC, where each night is an opportunity to sleep between the trees and create memories that swing far beyond the ordinary. In addition to the tree tents, our TEC ensures your wilderness adventure doesn’t compromise on comfort. We provide a communal area weather-proofed using a large parachute under which we provide a Quirky wood burner made from repurposed wheel hubs to keep you toasty and seating crafted from locally sourced Oak timber. There is also a simple BBQ grill. Further shelter is provided by our large tarp-covered A-frame, furnished with a bench and further seating lovingly built by your hosts, offering perfect spots to share stories and revel in the magic of the forest. Essential amenities include a sustainable composting toilet with rain-fed handwashing facilities, including eco-friendly handwash, a supply of drinking water, first aid kit, firelighters, heat glove and fire extinguisher, BBQ implements and a store of seasoned firewood. Rather than renting out the three tree tents separately as pitches, we only allow for exclusive bookings. Thus, it will only be you and your friends, family or colleagues who will be having a tree tent experience. You will have exclusive-use of the fire area underneath the parachute, the A-frame shelter and the composting toilet. You can also explore the 40-acres of the ancient Cornish woodland that is Caradon Wood, some of which is rare Atlantic or Temperate rainforest. A 15-minute walk down the slope brings you to the River Lyhner and there are nice little wild swimming spots on the bends of this river with its source close-by on Bodmin Moor. Once you book you will be sent directions to Caradon Wood along with a full kit list: what we provide and what you need to bring along. You will be met at our Base Camp parking area by one of your hosts, either Phil or Aydin. They will show you to your tree tent/s and provide you with an overview of the facilities and the woods. The cost per tree tent is £75/night for up to three people. Additional adults are £25/night Check in from 14:00- check out is 12:00 Dogs- FREE but not in the tent please (Please pick up after your four-legged companion) Please feel free to ask any questions as we are determined that everyone has that perfect wellbeing in Nature experience. Bodmin Moor is on your doorstep and the 17-mile Caradon Bike Trail passes close by the woods and allows you to explore this beautiful part of south-east Cornwall. Our social enterprise's mission is to boost and improve the wellbeing of people and planet and this tree tent experience provides you with that opportunity whilst financially contributing to our enterprise's work to sustainably manage Caradon Wood and to provide experiences that are open to ALL. We are committed to the W.H.O.'s One health Agenda: we are all part of Nature and not apart from it and we hope that your stay will strengthen this connection with Nature.
Campfires
Potable water
Picnic table
from 
£75
 / night

Camper favorites in and near Watergate Bay

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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

Woodland campsites in Watergate Bay guide

Where to go

Northwest Coast

West of Watergate, Cornwall’s north coast is wild and windswept. The surf Mecca of Newquay is one of the region’s busiest hubs, while further south, St Ives is surrounded by sandy beaches and seaside holiday parks. Coastal hikes don’t come more spectacular than the South West Coast Path, which runs the entire length of the Cornish coast. 

Northeast Coast

Sweeping headlands and rocky coves line the coast east of Watergate Bay. Enjoy sea-cliff walks along the Trevose Head Heritage Coast, spot sea-birds swooping along the shore, or take in the views from Pentire Point. Further north, discover the legacy of King Arthur at Tintagel Castle or hike up the High Cliff, Cornwall’s highest point. 

South Coast

St Austell, Falmouth, and Fowey are the headline acts of the ‘Cornish Riviera’, a 30-minute drive south of Watergate Bay. Camping options range from family-friendly holiday parks to glamping in a luxury yurt, but whichever you choose, the beach is never far away. Don’t miss a visit to the Eden Project, famed for its giant rainforest biomes. 

Bodmin Moors

Misty moorlands and ancient standing stones tempt intrepid hikers away from the coast to the Bodmin Moors. Visit in the summertime to hike amid fields of purple heather, picnic by Golitha Falls, then pitch your tent at a hillside camping ground. Look out for native ponies grazing the hillsides along the way.

Top towns in and near Watergate Bay