Dog-friendly camping in Wye National Nature Reserve

Magnificent views await at the Devil’s Kneading Trough—a star attraction of the Kent Downs AONB.

96% (823 reviews)

United Kingdom
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England
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Wye National Nature Reserve

96% (823 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Wye National Nature Reserve

Stories from the community

veronika

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Berty the yurty

We Stayed in a beautiful yurt nestled near the forest, located on a charming farm. Enjoyed fresh air, peace and quiet, and cozy comforts. Woke up to the scent of nature and started our day with our delicious homemade apple juice and fresh free-range eggs. The warm, welcoming host was happy to share local tips and helped make our stay relaxing and memorable.We would recommend to others 😃👍

4 nights at Knowler Farm Wild Camping

Knowler farm is a great campsite, well spread out pitches, set in peaceful countryside with walks on your doorstep but close to a shop, a pub and it has a lovely coffee cabin on site. Dogs and campfire's are allowed and the eco toilets and shower are something to see 😄 Wayne and his family are very welcoming, the whole thing is relaxed, friendly and exactly the kind of unplugged break i am looking for when camping.

Maxine

December 2024

Weekend Trip to Berty the yurty

We had an excellent stay at Berty the Yurty. As we stayed in Dec, even the wood burner was on for our arrival and Roy kindly met us to show us around. The facilities are impressive given the outdoor nature of the experience and it really is a chance to unwind and disconnect for a few days. The fresh eggs, sourdough, milk and apple juice were a lovely touch and Roy was very helpful when we needed the chopped wood topping up! Thank you for a wonderful stay!

1 night at Knowler Farm Wild Camping

Really wonderful place; you’ll be tucked away in nature to quietly enjoy it. Welcoming owner, full of hilarious anecdotes. To boot, there is delicious coffee (rivals artisan London spots) and homemade food to enjoy at the cafe in the morning. There’s a real community feel. We will definitely be back.

Star Hosts in Wye National Nature Reserve

98%

(89)

Under £50

91%

(100)

Chigborough Farm

48 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents130 acres · Essex, East Anglia

Boating, biking and bell tent glamping on a farm near the Blackwater Estuary, where good food and walkable pubs are also on the menu.

Booked 1 time

Blandred Camping

1 unit · Motorhome, Tent4 acres · Folkestone, England

Blandred Camping is tucked away in the beautiful Kent Countryside. Set on a working arable farm in the Village of Acrise, an area of 'Outstanding Natural Beauty'. Back to basic camping at its best! Spacious pitches, plenty of room to relax or to play. Clean, bright and spacious facilities. We let nature do the rest! We're just a 15 minute drive to Eurotunnel LeShuttle and Dover Ferry Port making us a great option to break your journey before or after travelling into Europe.

83%

(18)

Dogwood Cottage Campsite

8 units · Motorhomes, Tents3 acres · Rye, England

Come and meet the chickens and ducks, friendly pygmy goats and miniature shetland pony Dino at Dogwood Camping, a gem in the heart of the East Sussex countryside. We are a small, friendly, family-run campsite set in the High Weald area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect base from which to explore the beaches, castles, ancient woodlands and towns like Rye, Battle and Hastings. Dogwood is in the pretty village of Brede, and is walking distance from two fine country pubs. We are surrounded by stunning countryside where you can take your dog for a short stroll across the fields or go for a long romp through the woods and valleys. Or just sit and relax, listen to the birds and soak up the peace and quiet. We are fortunate to be in a 'dark sky' area, perfect for long, relaxing summer nights around the campfie, sipping hot chocolate, toasting marshmallows and spotting shooting stars! During the summer our site is a popular spot for families and campers visiting nearby Camber Sands sandy beach and year round we welcome all different types of campervan, motorhome and caravan. We look forward to welcome you to our little slice of paradise. Please note our strict 'no group' policy - we only accept single families, single couple and single campers. No more than 2 adults in any group, even on separate pitches. Please bring your acoustic guitar or similar but, as this is a quiet site, please no radios, stereos or videos unless you're using headphones. The birdsong here is incredible by the way! Very wet weather and winter – please note in the off-season, and if very wet, the camping field is closed to vehicles, replaced instead by semi-hardstanding areas or our summer car-park area. Facilities are open but please be prepared for the vagaries of the weather, leaves, puddles and mud. To change pitch please let us know asap so that we can try if possible to find you another. Apart from the car-park, pitches can get very muddy in prolonged, heavy rain. If you are not prepared for these eventualities please do not book.

94%

(71)

Fleets Paddock Glamping & Camping

40 units · Glamping, Tents5 acres · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Pitches, bell tents and a gypsy caravan on the outskirts of Canterbury

95%

(148)

Otter Channel Campsite

18 units · Tents3 acres · East Sussex, South East England

Spacious, nature-friendly camping with campfires on the banks of the River Rother

5 top dog-friendly campsites in Wye National Nature Reserve

100%

(4)

Plum Camping in May Tree Orchard

11 units · Glamping, Tents5 acres · Goudhurst, Kent, South East England

Simple camping and comfortable glamping amongst organic fruit trees, wild flowers and woodland, bordering an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with some of the darkest night skies in Europe. In the beautiful High Weald of Kent, Tash and Nick have been running May Tree Orchard's low-impact, nature-friendly, seasonal campsite, Plum Camping, for the last 4 years. The Soil Association certified organic land is full of wild flowers and surrounded by woodland and other orchards. Electricity and hot water for showers and washing up is solar generated. So you can charge your phone if necessary, but we'd recommend stargazing and enjoying the quiet warmth of friends and family around an evening fire instead. Bring your own tent, stay in the delightful hand-made shepherd’s hut or stylish caravan, or hire the whole May Tree Orchard space. Numbers are kept low here so that there is always plenty of room for everyone, as well as peace and quiet. The campsite is an hour and a half drive from London and a 20 min walk to the sleepy and pretty village of Goudhurst, with pubs selling great food and two local shops for self-catering. There are also two excellent farm shops within walking distance. Close to May Tree Orchard, there are walks via Sissinghurst, Scotney and Bodiam Castle, and water activities on the River Rother and at Bewl Water. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is about a ten-minute drive from the campsite and the coast around Hastings and Rye is just over 30 minutes. Two amazing independent food businesses sell pears, apples and plums grown at the orchard – Local Greens (South London) and Growing Communities (North London). Delicious apple juice and tasty chutney made from the organic apples grown in the orchard are available to purchase on site, and sometimes there are home-grown veg and herbs for sale.

100%

(23)

Knowler Farm Wild Camping

15 units · Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · England

We are a family friendly site and have something for everyone! Offering Wild Camping and bespoke and unique Glamping stays! On site Cafe, serving hot and cold food, fresh coffee and delicious homemade cakes. open 7 days a week! Friendly Farm animals including miniture shetland ponies who you can book to spend time with and even take for a walk! Our very own Double Decker bus, hosting bookable weekend toddlers play and craft workshops. On-site Gym- fully kitted out with all the equiptment required for a full holiday workout! Classes and Personal training sessions also available! Bush-Craft, Archery and Forrest School weekend workshops including Den building, woodland crafts and more, delivered by our qualified and friendly staff. Friday night Wood-fired Pizza (available to Pre-Order) Throughout the Summer, we host a variety of events such as Family Festivals, Wellness and Well-being retreats, gig nights and workshops. Check out our socails to see what's coming up next!

99%

(58)

Palace Farm Campsite

28 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents4 acres · Kent, South East England

Unpretentious and peaceful camping in an underrated spot

Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

1 unit · Glamping15 acres · England

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin, Hwin, is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

94%

(17)

Berty the yurty

1 unit · Glamping8 acres · Canterbury, Kent, South East England

Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.

Available this weekend

100%

(1)

Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

15 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents12 acres · England

We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.

100%

(4)

Far and Away Camping

40 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents7 acres · England

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!

79%

(28)

The Hop Farm

50 units · Motorhomes, Tents500 acres · Brenchley, England

The Hop Farm is set in 500 acres of unspoilt Kent countryside, known as the Garden of England. Flat grass fields and surrounded by private woodland and also fields abut the River Medway, ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Campers have access to newly refurbished facilities, state of the art showers, toilets and washing facilities. Raised BBQ's and raised firepits are permitted - we also rent these out (subject to availability). It's the ideal location for a peaceful escape with endless skies providing memorable sunsets and stars unhindered by artificial light. SITE RULES: Admission is only permitted after registering at reception. At least one of the party members must be aged 21 or over. Under 18s must be accompanied by their parents or legal guardians. Group bookings of 6 or more adults are not permitted (couples and immediate family members excepted). No hen/stag parties permitted. Single-sex bookings of 4 or more people (couples and immediate family members excepted) are not permitted.

Booked 4 times

Bramley Park Camping

61 units · Glamping, Tents13 acres · England

Bramley Park Camping is in an area of outstanding natural beauty beside the South Downs with plenty of options within walking distance, such as restaurants, shops, pubs, walks, cycling routes and fantastic public transport connections. Relax and enjoy the experience with camping or glamping. Choose your own pitch and campfires are encouraged. We are family friendly, just 15 minutes from Eastbourne beach and the closest site to the Seven Sisters. Tents + Campervans only (NO MOTORHOMES OR RV's) In a nutshell: - Facilities include toilets, showers, and washing up area - Pitch where you like system - Campfires are encouraged - Dogs stay for free - On-site fresh Pizza, Breakfast and Coffee from our food station - On-site shop stocking camping essentials, drinks, ice, ice creams etc. - Closest site to the Seven Sisters - Close to the coast (Eastbourne beach) With breathtaking views, comfortable pitches and glamping, plus all the essential facilities, you'll have everything you need for a top getaway here. This excellent area has just enough activities to suit every taste, group or person, with days out at the beach, the zoo, adventure parks, historic castles, hiking, walking, mountain biking and even wine tasting. Campers can enjoy the comfort of their own tent or campervan on a set of wild camping pitches. Upon arrival, you can choose where you would like to pitch and there will be plenty of space for you to enjoy the scenery. You can enjoy a touch of luxury in the South Downs National Park with 5m bell tents, each sleeping up to four people. These come fully furnished (with linen provided) and add a little more luxury to a regular camping visit. There are local attractions catering to any type of group, family, interest or person. The South Downs Way is very popular for walking/hiking and Friston Forest is ideal for mountain biking. Other things to see and do: *The Seven Sisters walk *The beach and seafront *Pevensey Castle *Knockhatch Adventure Park *Drusillas Zoo *Brighton (including the Lanes and the Royal Pavilion)

97%

(60)

Star Field Camping

21 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · Kent, South East England

Off-grid camping and glamping in the High Weald of Kent with campfires, acres of space and a farm shop on site

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Dog-friendly camping in Wye National Nature Reserve guide

Overview

At the heart of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this small nature reserve encompasses one of the area’s most visited viewpoints. Make a beeline for the Devil’s Kneading Trough, where the steep coombes afford views across the Romney Marshes and along the Channel coast. Once you’ve admired the views, stop for a picnic on the hillside or follow the hour-long Wye NNR nature trail to spot rare orchids, butterflies, and wildflowers. Hikers can also set out along the long-distance North Downs Way, which passes through the reserve.

Notable campgrounds

Best for country views: The Sunny Field has off-grid tent pitches, campervan sites, and glamping in bell tents, amid miles of open countryside. It’s a 10-minute drive from the reserve.
Best for budget campers: Flying Horse Inn is a country pub just west of the reserve and offers free overnight campervan parking for evening diners.
Best for escaping the crowds: Sunnyside Farm has plenty of grass and hardstanding pitches, optional electric hook-ups, and tranquil surroundings. It’s a 20-min drive away.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Kent Downs campsites and caravan sites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Plan up to six months in advance for popular sites or those with limited pitching.
You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment in advance.
Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates. Many campsites open from March through October, while others stay open year-round.

When to go

The most pleasant weather for camping is from April through September, and this is the main hiking season in the Kent Downs. Wildflowers bloom throughout this period, but come in late spring to admire them at their most colourful. Sites like the Devil’s Kneading Trough fill up with day-trippers throughout July and August, so make an early start to get a jump on the crowds or opt for a weekday visit in the off-season to enjoy the view to yourself.

Know before you go

Wye National Nature Reserve is located in the Kent Downs AONB, about a 20-minute drive from Ashford. Trains from London take about an hour to reach Wye train station, just 2 miles from the reserve.
Free parking is available at the Wye Nature Reserve car park along Coldharbour Lane.
Camping is not possible in the reserve itself, and wild camping is not permitted throughout the Kent Downs AONB.
The reserve has a restaurant, but for public restrooms or to purchase picnic supplies, head to Wye village.