Camping In Pembrokeshire [2023]: Best Campsites, Wild Camping, Tips & More!

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Last updated on June 4, 2023 by Wandering our World

Home to picturesque ancient hill forts, castles, rugged coastline and majestic standing stones; camping in Pembrokeshire is a getaway second to none. Found in South West Wales, Pembrokeshire is an instant heart-stealer for its dramatic vistas, and has previously been acclaimed by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the world’s top two coastal destinations.

Occupying over a third of the region, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is also the only park in the UK that was founded by virtue of a stunning coastline! This area boasts beautiful bays and sandy coves, with the occasional rugged piece of headland – making it an ideal region for exploring, hiking, and reconnecting with nature.

So if you’re thinking about camping in Pembrokeshire you’re unlikely to be disappointed!

There are several campsites in and around Pembrokeshire to choose from – we recommend some of our top picks in this article. We also look at wild camping in Pembrokeshire later in this article too.

So grab your tent and some hiking boots. Let’s begin your Pembrokeshire camping adventure!

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Anatolly_Gleb

Camping In Pembrokeshire: An Unforgettable Holiday

Pembrokeshire’s landscape is idyllic for anyone seeking to discover wildlife and experience diverse and spectacular views. Whether that’s undertaking the challenge of the 10-15 day Pembrokeshire Coast Path hike, or simply coming to the region for a day visit to admire the gorgeous coastline and ancient forts.

But If you’re adventurous then the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a must!

Spanning 186 miles (299km) of captivating coastal landscape, this walking route is renowned for being the first National Trail in Wales. Get your adrenaline pumping with a multi-day hike on the challenging terrains, along with the most rewarding views in the region.

There are many great campsites situated alongside the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, and a good quality walking in Pembrokeshire book – like this one – can help you plan what campsites may be of interest to you if you’re planning a walking and camping trip.

Photo via Unsplash+

Wild camping in Pembrokeshire is technically not allowed – unless you have the permission of the land owner.

However many people still do it, particularly when walking that famous Pembrokeshire Coast Path. If you can’t be persuaded to stay in a campsite, then we have information on wild camping in Pembrokeshire, and tips to be a responsible camper later on in this article.

However if you’re looking for some great campsite recommendations, below we share a few of our favourite campsites in Pembrokeshire. All of which are located close to the iconic Pembrokeshire Coast Path, and therefore ideal for walking, hiking and cycling enthusiasts.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/bokan76

Camping In Pembrokeshire: The Best Campsites For Fun, Views & Adventure

1. Celtic Camping and Bunkhouses

We love Celtic Camping for its open farm land and stunning landscape spanning over 250 acres. This campsite offers direct access to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, along with panoramic sea views and striking sunsets across the ocean.

This family-run campsite was established in 1992 and the warm welcome from Ian when you arrive always feels heart felt. Facilities wise the large bathroom and shower blocks are well maintained and modern, and there are many pitches with electric hookups.

But what we really love here are the views and the location which makes this campsite close to so many things.

We highly recommend you try the nearby pup, The Sloop, in the village of Porthgain. It’s a wonderful place if you are a fan of hearty pub food and want to taste some local fine ales.

Visitors can also access UK’s smallest city, St Davids and its magnificent cathedral, which is located about four miles from the campsite.

For those wanting to enjoy stunning blue-green water, Celtic Camping is perfectly located to visit Aberieddi’s Blue Lagoon and Whitesands & Newgale beaches – great places to have a dip during the summer months.

Price: From £12 per person

Address: Pwllcaerog Farm, St Davids, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6DG

Photo via Unsplash+

2. Little Haven Campsite

Little Haven Campsite is set in a serene location, surrounded by spectacular beaches and countryside, so camping here won’t disappoint. We found the booking process, confirmation of our stay and the check-in process hassle-free – which made our stay so much more pleasant.

Situated on a five-acre organic coastal field amongst wildflowers, and less than a mile from two beautiful beaches, Little Haven Campsite is the perfect spot for beach lovers and surfers. You can also hire water sports equipment here.

Along with all the usual facilities, this charming campsite also has fire pits perfect for campfires and toasted marshmallows at night! Plus its rural location makes it an ideal spot for watching shooting stars – the highlight of staying here for many visitors.

Close to nature and with tantalizing views up to the coast, lush green surroundings and easy access to coastal attractions, Little Haven Campsite is a sweet spot for hikers, surfing enthusiasts and boat users to come and relax after a fun packed day!

Price: £35 for two people per night

Address: Lower Foxhill, Walton West, Little Haven, Pembrokeshire, SA62  3UA

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/nortonrsx

Becks Bay Camping

Situated only 100m from the famous coastal path, Becks Bay Camping is also only a mile west of Tenby’s South Beach and within walking distance of the fascinating Lydstep Bay. The wonderful town of Tenby, with all its shops, restaurants and tourist attractions, is a short driving distance away too. (Related: Restaurants in Tenby That Locals Love).

This campsite will also meet the expectations of nature lovers as they are part of The Greener Camping Club, are invested in tourism sustainability, and with each booking made with Becks Bay they plant a tree as part of their Carbon Offset Scheme!

Although this basic campsite doesn’t have facilities like electricity or WiFi, this eco haven is the perfect place for visitors to take in wonderful ocean views and recharge their own batteries by a crackling campfire. They also have an on-site cafe that serves a lovely breakfast and lunch.

This place is quaint, rustic and rural. Which is what we all want from a camping holiday sometimes.

Price: From £12 per person

Address: Penally, Tenby, Pembrokeshire SA70 7RX

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/AndrisBarbans

4. Gupton Farm Campsite

Gupton Farm campsite is a great family-friendly site run by the National Trust where you can pitch your tent at an affordable price. There is a minimum of two night stay.

There are only a few electric hookups but the shared facilities are well maintained. There’s also loads of open space for children to run around, fly kites and have fun, and there a network of National Trust trails that run from the campsite out across the surrounding area.

This campsite is perfectly located for surfing trips too, as it sits in close vicinity to Freshwater West Beach; one of the top surfing spots on the Pembrokeshire Coast.

Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors on site but also the captivating sunrises and sunsets – and stargazing opportunities – that you get here. And all from the comfort of your own tent.

Price: From £28 for two nights (up to four people)

Address: Gupton Farm, Castle Martin, Pembroke, Pembrokeshire, SA71 5HW

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Anatolly_Gleb

Wild Camping In Pembrokeshire: 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 Wales, wild camping in Pembrokeshire 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. However that’s often easier said than done.

Yet the scenic views, renowned coastal path and stunning beaches that make up Pembrokeshire makes it a tempting destination for wild camping, whether you’ve got permission or not.

Therefore if you are planning to free camp in Pembrokeshire – and can’t be swayed to stay in a campsite instead – we’ve compiled the following guidelines to help you camp in a considerate manner:

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Eshma

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.

Campers should set up their tent at dusk, and take it down at dawn. A tent that is discreet, blends in with the landscape, and pitches quickly is best. Therefore a lightweight walking tent like this one would be a great investment for someone planning to go wild camping in Pembrokeshire.

Most hikers and walkers tolerate camping beside trails that involve multi-day hikes – after all, serious walkers need somewhere to sleep! However as a matter of courtesy you should camp away from any path, and pitch your tent at dusk and take it down at dawn.

Respect the leave no trace policy and take any rubbish with you. Leave your camping spot exactly the way you found it.

Photo via Unsplash+

Below are our top tips for camping in Pembrokeshire:

  • Heavy rain can happen in Pembrokeshire – 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.

  • There are villages close by the coastal path but 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 Pembrokeshire: The Weather & Best Months To Visit

Pembrokeshire is an enchanting location all year round, with great views and opportunities to reconnect with nature.

The average temperature is around 20°C in summer, which makes it the best season to explore this region. The ocean is often calm and clear in the summer months, and its possible to see playful dolphins and seals if you are lucky!

However for those planning to undertake the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, which does involve some challenging terrain, we would recommend hiking it during the spring months, or around September to October, when the temperatures are milder.

The spring months (March to May) are also ideal for bird-watchers and nature lovers, as it is the season for migrating and breeding birds to visit Pembrokeshire. Many wildflowers will bloom during this time too!

Winter can be quite challenging for those wanting to undertake the Coast Path as it gets chilly and the paths can be slippery. Therefore if you are planning on hiking the path and camping during these colder months, you should have proper gear and make use of walking aids.

Recommended For Your Camping In Pembrokeshire Vacation

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    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.