Devon Camping [2023]: Best Campsites, Wild Camping, Things To Do & More!

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Last updated on April 8, 2023 by Wandering our World

Idyllic sandy beaches, fossil-studded cliffs, an astounding coastline and majestic moorland makes camping in Devon a popular holiday destination.

Situated in southwest England, this region has so much to offer and is the only county in England boasting two National Parks and a non-continuous coastline on both its southern and northern areas.

Whether you are planning to hike, cycle, visit on a day-trip, or are just looking for an inexpensive way to see as much of the region as possible, camping in Devon can be a cost effective and fun way to do that.

It’s also a truly unique opportunity to lose yourself in the quiet scenery that makes this place so special.

There are several fantastic campsites in Devon and the surrounding area to choose from. We recommend some of our top picks in this article. We also look at wild camping in Devon later in this article too.

Alongside that we look at a few of the things you have to do when camping in Devon, and the best months to visit the region.

And if you’re travelling with kids (or you’re a fun adult!), we have our very own ‘scavenger hunt’ game that’s perfect for camping in Devon which you can print out for free. That’s right at the bottom of this article.

So grab your tent and some hiking boots – let’s begin your Devon camping adventure!

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/anatolly_gleb

Camping In Devon: Always An Unforgettable Holiday

Famous for hilly landscapes, coastal cliffs, sandy shores and sweeping viewpoints, Devon always delights visitors. With the South West Coast Path running through this quaint county’s coastline too, hikers will love the breathtaking walks by the sea here too.

There are some great campsites to choose from that are located close to some of the main walking, hiking and cycling routes in Devon – we give some of our favourites below.

A good quality walking in Devon book – like this one which has dozens of trails – can help you plan what area you may want to visit and walk in, and therefore what campsites may be of interest to you.

However if you’re looking for some great Devon campsite recommendations, below we share some of our favourite campsites in Devon. After that, we share information on wild camping in Devon:

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/nortonrsx

The Best Campsites In Devon For Fun, Views & Adventure

1. Warcombe Farm Camping Park

Warcombe Farm Camping and Caravan Park is a great family getaway thanks to its sweeping views, stunning sunsets and ample space for campers to pitch their tent and enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of life.

With 260 beautiful pitches, its own fishing lake where campers can enjoy fishing for carp after a day exploring Devon, and fantastic well maintained shared facilities, this almost feels like camping in luxury.

This place is also a great birdwatching area, and it’s not uncommon to see buzzards above your tent, or ducks sitting on the fishing lake.

Perfectly situated close to Woolacombe and the coast, Warcombe Farm Camping Park also has a fish and chip van on site on Saturdays – which is always a bonus!

This dog friendly Devon campsite has a dog walking area too which is second to none, and has acres of lovely grasslands and forest to explore. There’s even a dog wash area so you can get all that mud off your furry friend before heading back to your pitch.

Price: From £19 per night

Address: Station Rd, Mortehoe, Devon EX34 7EJ

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Bobex-73

2. Sea View Campsite

Beautifully set on ten acres of land, this farm campsite boasts a prime location close to the coast and has knockout sea views.

It’s also conveniently close to Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, Salcombe and a great selection of beaches, such as the award-winning Blackpool Sands.

This family-run campsite is surrounded by lush green South Devon countryside in an area of outstanding natural beauty with exceptional sights across the fields towards the sea. There’s loads of open space for kids to play ball games, fly kites and have fun.

Campers can enjoy a relaxed picnic in the wildlife conservation area adjacent to the site, or even grab a meal at the two pubs in the nearby village of Slapton which is within walking distance.

As for the facilities they are well maintained, albeit basic, but there are electric hook ups and a freezer and fridge you can use.

It’s a dog friendly Devon campsite too, but what we found handy is there is a dog kennel close by – called The Dog Lodge – which does a doggy day care. So you can always bring your furry friend there for a day if needed.

Price: From £12 per night

Address: Newlands Farm, Slapton, Dartmouth TQ7 2RB

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pawzi

3. Oakdown Touring and Holiday Caravan Park

This well maintained site run by the Franks family is a tranquil base to explore this quaint part of England. The award-winning holiday park offers campers great on-site facilities, a nice choice of accommodation and green, landscaped grounds to pitch a tent and reconnect with nature.

Those facilities include a 9-hole golf course, on-site cafe, children’s play park, a dog spa and free WiFi, alongside all the usual shared facilities you’d expect while camping.

And if you want to go to the beach, but get away from the busier beaches during the peak season, the calm and quiet Weston Beach is a leisurely 30 mins walk from the site.

There are great choices of local pubs and eateries close by too, but we recommend trying the take away pizzas from the on-site cafe – cheesy and delicious!

Price: From £16 per night

Address: Gatedown Lane, Weston, Sidmouth, Devon, EX10 OPT

iStock.com/Photozek07

4. Ocean Pitch Campsite

Ocean Pitch Campsite is an idyllic camping and glamping site, offering campers breathtaking backdrops of the Devon coastline. It’s almost impossible to camp any closer to the sea than this.

Situated close to one of North Devon`s finest beaches, Croyde Bay, this campsite provides the perfect sanctuary after a day walking, exploring and enjoying the coast.

Expect immaculate facilities here, and excellent meals from Biffen’s Kitchen – the on-site cafe that attracts customers from throughout the area.

As you’re just a few steps from the beach at this campsite, Ocean Pitch also rent out surfboards and paddle boards, so you can get out and enjoy the water as soon as you wake up.

And not only is this place perfectly located for surfing & beach activities, but Ocean Pitch has easy access to the famous South West Coastal Path too. It is worth noting that they don’t accept dogs.

Price: From £15 per night

Address: Moor Ln, Croyde, Braunton EX33 1FF

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/CreativeNature_nl

Wild Camping In Devon: Everything You Need To Know

DISCLAIMER: Below we give general advice, but we always recommend staying in an official campsite. If you choose to go wild camping/dispersed camping, then make sure you do so with someone who already knows the area where you’re planning on camping for your own safety.

Like other areas of England, wild camping in Devon is not technically allowed, however people still do it. Although campers are allowed to pitch their tent if they have the permission of a landowner. That’s often easier said than done though.

Yet the scenic coastline and tranquil countryside that exists in Devon makes it a tempting destination for wild camping, whether you’ve got permission or not.

Sometimes wild camping in Devon is tolerated when walkers are undertaking the South West Coast Path. However it’s only tolerated if walkers camp discreetly and not on land that appears privately owned or cultivated.

With that the case, if you are planning to wild camp in Devon – and can’t be swayed to stay in a campsite instead – then you should camp in the same place for one night only, and pitch your tent discretely and in a remote place which will not be easily seen.

Therefore don’t camp in or near settlements, someone’s farm or on cultivated land. If you think you’re on private land, always try and seek out the landowner and ask permission. They may request a small fee.

Below are our top tips for wild camping in Devon:

  • Heavy rain can happen in Devon – even during the summer months. Therefore make sure you have a rainproof tent that can survive rain. A lightweight one-man walking tent like this or similar would be perfect. For a good value tent that fits more than one person, this mosquito-proof one would work well too.

  • Remember to always have plenty of water on you when you’re walking and camping. A space-saving collapsible water bottle would be a good purchase.

  • If you’re wild camping, then go to the toilet at least 30-50 meters away from water sources, such as rivers. Make sure to use a trowel (like this folding one) to bury any human waste at least six inches under ground. Take any tissue paper with you – use a ziplock bag to store it and dispose of it in the nearest bin.
Photo via Unsplash+

Camping In Devon: Some Of The Best Places To Visit

Before looking at what weather to expect and which are the best months to go camping in Devon, we thought we would share some of the best places to visit when visiting this region of England. We also share some of our favourite Devon walks to try out too!

1. Bantham Beach

This serene, tranquil and idyllic beach is part of the designated South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has won awards from the Marine Conservation Society.

Food trucks with tasty local treats are usually parked beside the beach, so it’s a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the views across to Bigbury Bay and Burgh Island.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/photobyravis

2. Branscombe Village

Situated on Devon’s south coast between Seaton and Sidmouth, this village is a relaxing and delightful spot on the famous Jurassic Coastline.

Known as the longest village in the country, the streets lead from the picturesque valley to the sea, and are enhanced with colourful cottages and thatched buildings.

3. Dartmoor

Famous for being one of the UK’s last great wildernesses, Dartmoor boasts astounding natural beauty of open windswept upland moors embellished with large expanses of grass, heather, and peat blanket bogs.

With fascinating remnants of Iron Age villages, as well as druid monuments and obelisks dotted around, visitors will fall in love with this historic and hauntingly beautiful place.

Camping In Devon: Some Walks You Should Try

1. Watersmeet

Watersmeet is known for being one of Britain’s deepest river gorges!

This is where the East Lyn and Hoar Oak Water meet, and its’ a walkers’ paradise offering hikers great trails to discover inland, as well as a coastal path that follows the cliff tops.

A wealth of wildlife like red deer, herons and jays can be spotted along the trails.

2. Heddon Valley

This three mile long walk provides rewarding views of ancient woodland by the River Heddon.

Perfectly located between some of England’s highest sea cliffs, walkers will enjoy the breathtaking view out to sea.

This astounding location is home to the high brown fritillary butterfly too, so look out for them among the woodland and meadows.

Photo for illustrative purposes: iStock.com/Izf

3. South West Coast Path

For those who fancy taking a longer trail, the South West Coast Path is known as the UK’s longest and best-loved National Trail!

The 630-mile route is ideal for nature purists to reconnect with the outdoors and enjoy some of the UK’s best views and wildlife. 

Hikers will be able to explore forts, castles and historic country houses on route.

iStock.com/leszekglasner

Camping In Devon: The Weather & Best Months To Visit

With mild to warm temperatures, spring is the perfect time to visit Devon as kids and families can make the most of a full day at the famous beaches and historic villages in the region. Temperatures range from 10°C to 17°C, and visitors can see flowers in full bloom, whilst wildlife can be spotted during walks.

Summer is a great time to visit the national parks, as well as discover Devon’s rich history. With daytime temperatures reaching between 18°C and 22°C, visitors can enjoy great views of the ocean and have a pint in a local beer garden. Summer is also a perfect time to undertake long walking trails as the land should be dry and hikers can take advantage of the longer daylight hours.

With milder temperatures during autumn, it’s the perfect time to avoid the peak summer tourist season, go on hikes, and enjoy the ever-changing colours of the woodland.

Winter brings the shortest daylight hours and coolest temperatures, but visitors can enjoy the crisp air during walks on the different trails in the region.

Photo via Unsplash+

Camping In Devon: Scavenger Hunt Game!

If you’re looking to keep kids amused while camping in Devon – or you fancy having some fun for yourself – then we’ve created a printable scavenger hunt game!

Save the image and print it out, then tick off what you find and achieve during your camping holiday.

The game encourages players to get out and discover wildlife and nature, as well as make new friends and do fun camping activities. Enjoy!

Recommended For Your Camping In Devon Trip

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.