If you’re having coming to Devon for a traditional British seaside holiday at one of the region’s beloved resorts, why not have a truly traditional experience by choosing a campsite as a base for your adventures? Camping is a great British pastime and feels almost like a rite of passage for families the world over.
Whether you’re on a budget, you want to get back to nature or you just want to experience the nostalgia of holidays gone by, we have lots of suggestions for memorable camping holidays across Devon.
North Devon
North Devon is the place to be if you’re into watersports like surfing and paddle boarding. The entire coastline forms part of the UK’s first surf reserve and features several beautiful and beloved seaside resorts, like Ilfracombe, Woolacombe and Westward Ho!
There are a host of camping opportunities in this part of Devon, many of which are close to the coast and are dog friendly, as well as providing excellent facilities for the whole family.
One site in Woolacombe is Hidden Valley. This award winning park is just a stone’s throw from the beach and features top class amenities.
South Devon
South Devon has long been the destination of choice for families, in fact, it, alongside the English Riviera, has been welcoming visitors since the Victorian era. Here you’ll find the city of Plymouth, as well as picturesque places like Salcombe and quirky market towns like Totnes.
Near Dartmouth you’ll find Woodlands Grove Caravan and Camping Park, which is right next door to a popular theme park – even better than having this on the doorstep, guests staying at Woodland Grove get free entry throughout their stay! With 10 playzones in the park, plus a host of nearby attractions and beaches, this is a great option for anyone who wants to keep busy and have fun this summer.
Image: Woodlands Grove Caravan and Camping Park
Nearby is the historic Camp Dartington grounds, a family friendly campsite within the grounds of the Dartington Estate, a Medieval site just five minutes from the centre of Totnes. As well as the chance to camp within these historic gardens, there are also a host of activities and workshops taking place all year around. A ten minute stroll with lead you to the Cider Press Centre where you can buy a range of items, as well as listed gardens and the house itself.
If you’re travelling during the summer holidays without children and want to have a peaceful and relaxing trip, take a look at Parkland Caravan and Camping site, which is just outside Kingsbridge. This Five Gold Pennant adults only site has excellent facilities and incredible views, all within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ideal for anyone who wants to bask in the tranquillity of the countryside.
Closer to Plymouth and not far from Dartmoor National Park is Roadford Lake, an adventure and activity centre that has a stunning campsite attached to it. This is a great place for anyone who wants an outdoor activity holiday. The campsite offers electric and non electric pitches with breath taking views, while the activity centre has everything from archery to canoeing and just about everything in between on offer.
East Devon
The east of the county is where you’ll find the Jurassic Coast and seaside towns like Sidmouth and Exmouth. This part of Devon is the most ecologically fascinating, with incredible historic cliffs and lots of wide open spaces to explore.
Not far from the city of Exeter which falls within the East Devon boundary, you’ll find Crealy Meadows Caravan and Camping Park, the accommodation attached to Crealy Theme Park and Resort. As well as offering camping and touring pitches for you to set up your own home from home, there are also five star lodges and glamping options here, so you can really pick somewhere that suits you.
Another option in East Devon is Oakdown Touring and Holiday Caravan Park. This family run site is conveniently located for exploring areas like Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary, Seaton and other surrounding towns and villages. Choose from setting up your own tent on one of their pitches or opt for a glamping pod or luxury lodge for an extra sense of comfort.
Image: Oakdown Touring and Holiday Caravan Park
Camping and Caravanning Club
If you’re part of the Camping and Caravanning Club, there are several sites across Devon where you can enjoy discounts and other benefits on site fees. If you’re not a member, don’t worry, these sites still offer great value for money and affordable holidays.
In North Devon there is Lynton Camping and Caravanning Club site set within the Exmoor National Park and close to the coast. In just a short drive, or a bracing walk, you’ll be at some of the most popular surfing beaches in the region or a host of amazing family attractions. In South Devon, there are several sites to choose from including California Cross which is good for exploring Dartmoor, the English Riviera and Plymouth; Dartmouth which is just a mile from Blackpool Sands award winning beach and the towns of Dartmouth and Totnes and Slapton Sands, which is just a stone’s throw from the beach and well placed for exploring the South Devon area.
Elsewhere in Devon there is the Tavistock Camping and Caravanning Club site which will give you easy access to the Mid Devon region and all the rural retreats it offers.
Want to learn more about camping in Devon? Take a look below!
