The best campgrounds near Braintree, Essex County with hiking

In Braintree, hiking takes centre stage with over 190 campsites designed for walkers who want access to winding footpaths and rolling countryside. Expect a range of stays, with prices from as low as £15 and an average night around £110. You’ll spot sites where you can light a campfire, bring your dog, and end the day with a hot shower—essentials after a long trek. Top picks locals swear by include Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire (53 reviews), The Nut Plat Retreat (31 reviews), and Painters Farm Campsite (20 reviews). You’ll find sites next to woodland paths, open fields, and hidden streams. If you’re keen on wildlife-watching or horseback-riding, several camps offer direct access to local trails. Check facilities for pet rules and fire pits, and always sort your rubbish—most sites take pride in keeping the area tidy for the next traveller.

99% (413) • 527 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Braintree

In Braintree, hiking takes centre stage with over 190 campsites designed for walkers who want access to winding footpaths and rolling countryside. Expect a range of stays, with prices from as low as £15 and an average night around £110. You’ll spot sites where you can light a campfire, bring your dog, and end the day with a hot shower—essentials after a long trek. Top picks locals swear by include Hatters Meadows Cambridgeshire (53 reviews), The Nut Plat Retreat (31 reviews), and Painters Farm Campsite (20 reviews). You’ll find sites next to woodland paths, open fields, and hidden streams. If you’re keen on wildlife-watching or horseback-riding, several camps offer direct access to local trails. Check facilities for pet rules and fire pits, and always sort your rubbish—most sites take pride in keeping the area tidy for the next traveller.

99% (413) • 527 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Braintree

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%

(178)

38mi from Braintree · 47 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE

2. Four Winds Camping, Canoeing & SUP

97%

(292)

51mi from Braintree · 14 sites · Tents, RVs

A small, friendly riverside campsite in Cambridgeshire – with campfires allowed

3. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(72)

45mi from Braintree · 3 sites · Lodging

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

4. Freshwinds Camping

67mi from Braintree · 15 sites · Tents

Think this 'great outdoors' lark is all tangled-up tent and midge-repellant? Then Freshwinds is the spot for you.

5. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

53mi from Braintree · 22 sites · Tents, Lodging

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

6. Chalky Downs

96%

(605)

77mi from Braintree · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

7. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%

(164)

61mi from Braintree · 72 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads

8. The Sunnyfield Campsite

94%

(99)

54mi from Braintree · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Looking for a place where you can camp, glamp and campervan together with friends? The Sunnyfield is the place.

9. Sleep Wild

100%

(20)

82mi from Braintree · 2 sites · Lodging

Curvy cabins with hot tubs on an expansive farm in the Oxfordshire countryside

10. Luna Domes

100%

(9)

53mi from Braintree · 8 sites · Lodging

High-end glamping with hot tubs in the Garden of England

11. Riverside Camping - Festival Feel

92%

(38)

54mi from Braintree · 41 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A pop-up campsite on the banks of the River Great Ouse, with workshops, music, good food and a festival vibe

12. The Slips

91%

(85)

75mi from Braintree · 39 sites · Tents, RVs

A relaxed, back-to-basics campsite in the West Sussex countryside

13. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%

(13)

67mi from Braintree · 3 sites · Lodging

The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.

14. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%

(26)

83mi from Braintree · 2 sites · Lodging

Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way. Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.

15. The Pig Place Campsite

92%

(93)

79mi from Braintree · 45 sites · Tents, RVs

Canal-side camping for adults on a rustic Oxfordshire pig farm

16. Little Fleece at Folly Farm

100%

(59)

83mi from Braintree · 1 site · Lodging

A cosy and luxurious shepherds hut for two on a beautiful farm in the Wessex Downs.

17. Hook Farm Campsite

98%

(203)

62mi from Braintree · 18 sites · Tents

Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald

18. Beech Estate Campsite

97%

(185)

66mi from Braintree · 57 sites · Tents, Lodging

Tent pitch camping and wild glamping in a Sussex woodland hideaway

19. Woodlands Camping

97%

(104)

91mi from Braintree · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park

20. Heygates Lodging

100%

(21)

78mi from Braintree · 2 sites · Lodging

A place to unwind in the heart of the countryside. Canalside walks are on your doorstep and nature is never far away - birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards are plentiful, and you may be lucky enough to see otters in the canal. There's a variety of pubs and restaurants within a short drive, and the market towns of Rugby and Market Harborough area about 20 minutes away. Unwind in the hot tub, enjoy local beers and ciders or pick from our expertly curated wine list. Our Lodges have their own fire pits and BBQs, and all fuel is provided. Each lodge has its own hammock, and a designated private fishing peg at a turning point in the canal, meaning that you'll be largely undisturbed by passing boats.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

e

erin

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!

C

Catherine

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

This is the ultimate weekend getaway. Jane and the family are fabulous hosts. Everything was so incredibly clean, and there was so many personal touches from fresh bread to handmade soaps. The view of the property from the cabin was truly spectacular. Would definitely stay again ☺️✨

D

David

November 2025

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.

R

Rachel

October 2025

2 nights at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

We had the most wonderful stay at this little countryside getaway! From the moment we arrived, Jane was absolutely incredible - so kind, welcoming, and full of helpful information about the lodge and surrounding area. She’d thought of everything, leaving clear instructions for how everything worked, which made our stay effortless and relaxing. The thoughtful touches really made it special - from the freshly baked bread to the delicious shortbread cookies, everything felt homely and made with love. The setting itself was pure peace and quiet, surrounded by nothing but cows, trees, and the soft sounds of nature. It was the perfect place to switch off, breathe deeply, and just enjoy the calm of the countryside. We honestly didn’t want to leave - a hidden gem that we’d return to in a heartbeat!

V

Victoria

October 2025

16 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Woodlands Camping

What an amazing spot in nature! This was an incredible getaway, such a quiet and natural space with birds, surrounded by trees and the very nearby woodlands which are covered in mushrooms, more than we could count! It was so peaceful, we loved the natural space and eco-friendly touches. We definitely want to return again! It was magical!

A

Abi

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Woodlands Camping

Really great site. Managed really well. Amazing spot in the woods and plenty of space between yourself and other campers. Firepits are provided and you can buy wood for fires if you need. There are some great walks nearby and plenty of stargazing! Would really recommend this site. Had a really wonderful weekend here. (There is a closing time of 7pm which is to be aware of and not being able to enter after that point so just something to be aware if traffic or travelling far after work.) The toilets, eco and flushing, were really good. Didn't use the showers so cant say!

E

Eren

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Little Fleece at Folly Farm

My girlfriend and I had a lovely stay at Little Fleece to celebrate her birthday. The hot tub was lovely and we made some great pizzas using the pizza oven. Jane and Dave were brilliant hosts - it was lovey to meet you both! The homemade bread and biscuits were a lovely touch. Thank you!

K

Katie

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Woodlands Camping

We very much enjoyed the peace and quiet of the location. Rustic and basic, very much as advertised.

C

Charlie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend

A

Alan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hook Farm Campsite

Really quiet, toilets and showers clean and tidy. Definitely be going back!

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!

P

Paul

September 2025

13 ft Class B

With pets

2 nights at Chalky Downs

Our host was very friendly and helpful. Facilities were fine, clean and tidy. You will probably need some ramps if you want to be completely level but wasn’t a problem for us.

T

Tim

September 2025

1 night at Little Fleece at Folly Farm

What a beautiful spot. Lovely little cabin. Everything worked as expected. Hot tub was AMAZING! Pizza oven worked a treat. Loads of wood supplied. Jane and Dave were so kind and accommodating. Just wish we had more time there!

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Had such a great stay at The Barn!! Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!

M

Millie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great campsite, really peaceful, beautiful views and great amenities.

A view of the hut from one of the surrounding footpaths.

E

Emily

September 2025

1 night at Quaint Farm in a National Park

Matt met us on arrival and helped carry our bags to the The Shepherds Hut which is well fitted out , nicely decorated , lovely and clean, and well equipped. Nice hot shower and towel rail. Electric fire and also a log burner should you need it for the cold weather,The bed was so so comfy and the oat biscuits and eggs were delicious !! All windows had lovely views. Ivan & Sylvia S xxx

István Ferenc

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hook Farm Campsite

Perfect place. I loved the small woods. Highly recommend

Entrance to the farm land where the campsite is.

N

Nina

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Chalky Downs

Me and my partner stayed at Chalky downs for 2 nights for a little get away ✨. Sharen’s land is beautiful, everyone is so friendly and we even got to order a sausage bacon and egg bap with tea and coffee in the morning! ☀️. We went into Brighton town for a bit of shopping and to see the sea, only a 14 minute drive and we parked in the station car park 👏🏼. Would 100% recommend and will definitely be going back! Thank you so much. 🫶🏼

I

Issy

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely, small campsite on working farm. Each pitch comes with a fire pit and bbq which is a nice touch. Great cafe on site and food trucks/ street food on certain days. We’ll be back!

C

Craig

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Awesome set up, with thoughtful amenities like BBQ, BBQ utensils, camp fire pit, wood, hammocks, seats, etc. After it rained, we were treated to a wonderful rainbow display. The coffee and pastries in the morning were a treat.