Wildlife-watching campsites in Wye National Nature Reserve

·

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.

97% (513) 252 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Wye National Nature Reserve

6. Berty the yurty

94%
(18)
1 unit · Glamping · 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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£105
 / night

7. Painters Farm Campsite

99%
(38)
46 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Whitstable, England
Nestled beside the village of Painters Forstal, Faversham, Kent. Our two acre orchard site with grass pitches. The campsite lies within seventeen acres on the slope of The Kent Downs, a designated area of natural beauty. The Alma ale house at the edge of the farm serves Shepherds Neame and hot meals all year round. Two acre quiet cherry orchard site based around a Tudor Manor house 1547 that gives its name to our village. Surrounded by orchards and open countryside but within easy reach of Faversham, Whitstable and Canterbury. Pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans with or without electric hook up on a level grassy site. Pets are welcome and a crew member is always around the reception or farm to help out. The Campsite is open from 1st march until 31st October. The local area is awash with things to do. Faversham once the busiest port in 17th century England for its wool trade has the longest complete medieval street in the country. A wealth of little shops, cafes and pubs as well as the country’s oldest family owned brewery Shepherd Neame. Whitstable sitting just along the coast, famed for its Oysters and Sunsets is a fun beachside community bustling in the summer months and hauntingly bleak in the winter ones. The World Heritage sites of Canterbury are just a fifteen minute trip away with all its well documented history and plentiful shops and eateries.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£26
 / night

11. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£99
 / night

13. The Hop Farm

82%
(37)
50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£28
 / night

15. Small Meadow Farm

100%
(18)
3 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Fairlight, England
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 Camping area with 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. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Add the large group tent, ideal for gatherings, sleeping or simply escaping the heat. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £250 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £25/night per person 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 & info centre) 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.
Campfires
Showers
Picnic table
from 
£50
 / night

16. Earth Camp

90%
(34)
33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night

18. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night

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.

97% (513) 252 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Wye National Nature Reserve

6. Berty the yurty

94%
(18)
1 unit · Glamping · 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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£105
 / night

7. Painters Farm Campsite

99%
(38)
46 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Whitstable, England
Nestled beside the village of Painters Forstal, Faversham, Kent. Our two acre orchard site with grass pitches. The campsite lies within seventeen acres on the slope of The Kent Downs, a designated area of natural beauty. The Alma ale house at the edge of the farm serves Shepherds Neame and hot meals all year round. Two acre quiet cherry orchard site based around a Tudor Manor house 1547 that gives its name to our village. Surrounded by orchards and open countryside but within easy reach of Faversham, Whitstable and Canterbury. Pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans with or without electric hook up on a level grassy site. Pets are welcome and a crew member is always around the reception or farm to help out. The Campsite is open from 1st march until 31st October. The local area is awash with things to do. Faversham once the busiest port in 17th century England for its wool trade has the longest complete medieval street in the country. A wealth of little shops, cafes and pubs as well as the country’s oldest family owned brewery Shepherd Neame. Whitstable sitting just along the coast, famed for its Oysters and Sunsets is a fun beachside community bustling in the summer months and hauntingly bleak in the winter ones. The World Heritage sites of Canterbury are just a fifteen minute trip away with all its well documented history and plentiful shops and eateries.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£26
 / night

11. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£99
 / night

13. The Hop Farm

82%
(37)
50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£28
 / night

15. Small Meadow Farm

100%
(18)
3 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Fairlight, England
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 Camping area with 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. 🏕️ Extra comfort if the weather turns Add the large group tent, ideal for gatherings, sleeping or simply escaping the heat. It includes a yoga deck / flat outdoor space, perfect for truly unwinding. Looking for a secure field kitchen? We can open the horsebox on the top field (small extra cost). It’s ideal for food storage, camp stoves and gear while you explore beaches and trails. 🌟 Special Exclusive Rental Hire the entire campsite area for your group £250 for up to 10 people up to 10 additional guests at £25/night per person 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 & info centre) 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.
Campfires
Showers
Picnic table
from 
£50
 / night

16. Earth Camp

90%
(34)
33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Lewes, East Sussex, South East England
We are a small, family run, eco-friendly campsite in Chailey, set in a peaceful pocket of Sussex countryside. Our uniqueness includes therapies offered on site, including massage, reiki and pellowah; our classes run on site, including yoga, and gong baths; the wide range of outdoor games we can provide; and our commitment to making your camping experience as pleasurable as possible. We also have a fantastic wood-fired sauna all day on Saturdays, a delicious pizza oven on Saturday evenings, and a coffee truck on weekend mornings! We allow campfires and dogs, and for those who seek a little luxury in camping, we have spacious hot showers. We also have a number of beautiful Bell Tents available to hire, which we will put up for you prior to your arrival (min 2 nights). Look our for our special weekends, including Star Parties, Yoga Retreats, Singing Circles and Wellness Weekends. We also have delicious wood-fired pizzas on Saturday evenings, and an artisan coffee trucks with superb pastries on weekend mornings 8-10am.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night

18. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night

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

Wildlife-watching campsites in Wye National Nature Reserve guide

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

  1. 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. 
  2. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment in advance. 
  3. 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.