It is almost a disservice to call Badgells Wood 'a
campsite'. It feels more like you’ve driven into the woods, found a tranquil
coppice clearing and slept the night hidden from the rest of the world. Such is
the seclusion and simplicity of this back-to-nature spot that you forget it's
really a carefully managed woodland, crafted so that every camper can have that
authentic outdoors experience. In an ancient setting where campers play second
fiddle to badgers, squirrels and chirping birdlife, Badgells Wood is a dreamy
woodland escape.
Set in the 30 acre corner of a sprawling 250 acre forest,
the campsite has ample space for pitches, each in their own unique spot and
varying in size. Whether you want to tuck yourself away with a two-man tent, or
park up a campervan with a group of friends, there’ll be a pitch to match and,
with peace and quiet top of this campsite's agenda, you can guarantee you won’t
be disturbed. Instead, kick back in your pocket of woodland paradise, kindle
the campfire and let your kids loose amongst the trees.
With an interesting history as an old World War II training
area, Badgells Wood is striped with concrete tracks and access is still easy by
car. From the pitches themselves, trodden pathways weave through the
bluebell-clad floor to a sanitary block (built of wood, naturally) that houses
sinks for washing up and lovely hot showers. The ablutions offer some everyday
luxury amid the wilderness, whilst compost loos are also dotted throughout the
campsite.
Though a hop in the car can take you to famous castles,
pristine gardens and a host of family attractions, Badgells Wood Camping is a
place to forget the modern world. In fact, you could easily forget the car
altogether. On weekends, bushcraft courses are run by experienced outdoorsmen
(and women) who tailor the course to all ages involved. Then the rest of the
week can be spent refining your new skills, whittling around the campfire or
building dens between the trees. Children will love the rope swings, hanging
from sturdy oaks, or investigating the nature trail, while those in need of a
stroll should take to one of the woods many footpaths
As the Badgells team rightfully proclaim, “if you prefer
your campsite with mown lawns, plastic playgrounds and a swimming pool then
we’re probably not for you”. But those with a romantic yearning for an off-grid
woodland escape should head straight for the Kent Downs. Badgells Wood Camping
will certainly do the trick.