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The Ultimatee Guide To Camping In Woolacombe: Best Campsites, Wild Camping, Tips & More!

Woolacombe is a great place for a camping trip! This town is located in North Devon, and boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, surfing, fishing and hiking, and there are also a number of restaurants and pubs in town, as well as a few small shops.

In our opinion, camping in Woolacombe is a great way to experience all that the town and region has to offer. Thankfully visitors can choose from a number of campsites, including some located right beside the beach. The town is also close to some of England’s most beautiful countryside, so visitors can enjoy peaceful hikes and bike rides in addition to all the activities available in town.

Luckily, we know this area well. So below we share with you our favourite campsites in and around Woolacombe.

However, unfortunately wild camping in Woolacombe is prohibited. Yet the reality is that some people still wild camp in the region.

If you are planning on wild camping, and can’t be swayed to stay in a campsite instead, we have more information and tips on how to be considerate when wild camping in Woolacombe later.

But if you’re looking for some great campsites, below we recommend some of the best in the area!

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/naumoid

Camping In Woolacombe: A Holiday You’ll Never Forget!

Woolacombe is a great place to visit any time of the year, but it is especially beautiful in the summer when the beaches are warm and sunny and perfect for enjoying the sand and waves.

Although if you visit in spring or autumn (outside of the school holidays) you can avoid big crowds.

Regardless of when you are planning your visit, here are some of our favourite campsites in Woolacombe. Each will bring you wonderful views, fun and adventure.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/g-stockstudio

The Eight Best Campsites In Woolacombe For Fun, Views & Adventure

1. Bay View Farmers Camping and Caravan Site Devon

Camping at Bay View Farmers is a wonderful experience. It’s in close proximity to Woolacombe Beach and the Tarka Trail, and also offers beautiful views of Lee Bay. Bay View is also very peaceful and quiet, so perfect if you’re looking to recharge.

Additionally, this campsite is perfect for groups or families, as it offers plenty of space and facilities. So say goodbye to noisy, crowded campgrounds and hello to a comfortable and peaceful break away.

Bay View is located near the beach, so you can enjoy the sound and smell of the ocean while you sleep. Plus, there are clean and modern shower and toilet facilities, so you don’t have to worry about not having enough hot water. There’s place to charge your phone too, and a sheltered washing-up area.

Dogs are also considered full family members at Bay View, so they can roam free in the large pooch walking area.

The site is also perfect for those who love the great outdoors as there’s plenty of space to run around and kick a ball, as well as safe play areas for the little ones. And if you need to take a break from all the fun (and the kids!), the local pub is just a short walk away!

What’s Close By

At Bay View Farmers Campsite, you can enjoy stunning coastal views, right from your pitch! This small family-run campsite is nestled in a beautiful location just a few minutes’ walk from Woolacombe’s award-winning beach.

Bay View is nestled among acres of wildflowers and natural beauty that you can explore on foot or by bike. You’ll also be close to charming villages and seaside towns where you can enjoy local restaurants, bars and shops.

There are several lovely walks to take your dog which lead off the Tarka Trail, either directly to Lee Bay, or following the coastal path all the way to Bull Point Lighthouse.

Price: Starts at around £20 per night

Address: Woolacombe EX34 7HG

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pawzi

2. Little Roadway Farm Camping Park

At Little Roadway Farm Camping Park, you’ll find all the amenities you need for a comfortable and pleasant stay. It’s situated in picturesque countryside on the edge of the North Devon coast, and it’s less than a mile from lovely Woolacombe Beach. This dog-friendly and family-run park really is perfect for a relaxing vacation.

This farm campsite is a unique and special place because the team here camps there themselves. And as a result they have created a site that has everything they would want in a holiday – peace and quiet, green fields, and wildlife all around. It is an environmentally friendly spot too, where everyone is encouraged to collect rubbish or join in with the local beach clean.

The campsite also has excellent facilities, including toilets, showers (including a baby changing area and disabled facilities), a playground, ice pack freezing, and a laundry area.

There is also a small shop that sells plastic-free supplies such as bamboo toothbrushes, along with other camping supplies and a takeaway. They also have resident Llamas and Highland Cows, which kids will love!

What’s Close By

This site is conveniently located close to Woolacombe, which offers shops, pubs, and restaurants.

Being so close to the beach, you’ll find an abundance of surf schools and coasteering businesses.

If that’s not your thing, there are plenty of other ways to get active. You can explore the Tarka Trail, a cycle trail from Ilfracombe to Torrington, and many other footpaths, which take you away from the hustle and bustle and give you spectacular views over Woolacombe Bay.

Price: Starts at around £32 per night

Address: Georgian Road, Woolacombe EX34 7HL

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/bokan76

3. Woolacombe Sands Holiday Park

This campsite and holiday park is a family-owned and operated business that takes pride in providing guests with personal touches that larger, corporate holiday parks may not be able to offer. It’s the perfect base for exploring the North Devon coast and countryside, with beaches like Woolacombe, Saunton Sands, and Croyde only a short drive away.

There’s a wide variety of pitches to suit all types of campers, from the budget-conscious to those who desire a bit more luxury. You can even bring your furry friends along!

Campers will find all of the amenities they need on-site as well as some excellent facilities. These include heated swimming pools, disabled access toilets and showers, a family bathroom, a clubhouse with nightly entertainment, a dog exercise area, and more. Plus, it’s just a short walk to the beach and some horse riding stables!

So if you’re looking for a Woolacombe camping adventure where you can walk to the beach in the morning, but sip on a beer by the pool in the afternoon, this could be your ideal spot!

Incredibly, with all of that on offer, this is still one of the most affordable Woolacombe camping options around.

What’s Close By

Not only is it just a 10-20 minute walk from one of the UK’s top beaches, but there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area, such as golf, tennis, horse riding and surfing.

If that’s not enough, the surrounding area is home to some of the UK’s most picturesque villages and towns, such as Ilfracombe, Clovelly and Combe Martin.

Price: Starts at around £8 per night per person

Address: Beach Rd, Woolacombe EX34 7AF

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Apicha Thumvisead

4. Warcombe Farm Camping Park

Warcombe Farm is a great site for all those who love to be beside the seaside. With its 260 pitches, sweeping views and sea views, this site has something for everyone. It’s also surrounded by nature, so you can expect peace and quiet.

There are standard pitches as well as electric and fully serviced pitches, including extra-large options perfect for big motorhomes.

On top of that, there’s well-maintained showers and toilets, as well as a shop for stocking up on supplies. There’s also a playground for kids, a nature trail and woodland walk to explore, and a fishing lake – perfect for spending an afternoon outdoors. And if you need to get online or take care of some work, WiFi is available throughout the park.

What’s Close By

The beaches around Devon are sure to please everyone – from the active surfer to the leisurely sunbather. The Blue Flag Woolacombe Bay is close to this campsite and a great place to start, and there are plenty of other amazing beaches nearby.

If you’re looking for a beautiful setting with stunning cliff views, head to Lynton and Lynmouth. For a fun day trip that kids will love, then take a boat out to meet the cuddly seals at Lundy Island!

Price: Starts at around £19 per night

Address: Station Rd, Mortehoe, Devon EX34 7EJ

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/CreativeNature_nl

5. Golden Coast Leisure Park

If you’re traveling in a motorhome, then Golden Coast Holiday Park could be the perfect place for a fun-filled luxury camping holiday with the family.

It boasts amazing surfing and sports facilities, high ropes and a climbing wall, plus an all-weather entertainment complex! With four heated pools, a wave machine (see picture below), ten-pin bowling, wonderful beach access, and luxurious accommodation, it’s easy to see why this park is so popular.

With pitches on all-weather bases, electric hookups, and water and waste disposal, it’s easy to set up camp and enjoy everything that the grounds have to offer. For families looking for a bit more comfort, there is a wide selection of lodges, apartments, and luxurious static caravans.

With all of that on offer, plus organized activities as well as several restaurants and bars on-site, you may find it hard to leave and explore the rest of the area!

What’s Close By

There’s so much to do on-site you don’t even need to leave to find things to do! They have exciting facilities like swimming pools, thrilling slides, an amusement arcade and more. So there’s plenty to do for the little ones.

They also organize all-weather activities and endless entertainment for the young and young-at-heart.

And when you’re done with all the excitement on-site, then you can relax in one of the traditional Devonshire pubs that are close by or take the kids to nearby Woolacombe beach.

This is a perfect Woolacombe camping option for an action-packed holiday as well as a day of sweet nothing in the sunshine.

Address: Woolacombe Station Rd, Woolacombe EX34 7HW

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/welcomia

6. Sunnymead Farm Camping and Touring Site

At peaceful Sunnymead Farm Camping and Touring Site, you can enjoy a relaxing beach holiday with beautiful sea views. The spacious pitches are great for unwinding after a busy day, and you can even meet the friendly on-site horses!

This campsite is a great place to stay if you’re looking for some relaxation in nature, but still want to be close to many activities and places.

It’s set in a beautiful location and has all the facilities you need, including showers, toilets and a dishwashing area. There’s also free internet access and a children’s play area. However they often require a minimum of three days stay.

What’s Close By

The site is within walking distance of two pubs, both of which are child and dog friendly. If you want to leave your car behind, there’s a local bus service that stops at the site entrance too, so you can explore the area easily by public transport.

The site is just a 15-minute drive from the incredible Saunton Sands, so you can enjoy the best of Devon’s countryside and coasts.

You can also go surfing on Woolacombe Beach or play in the sand at stunning Croyde Bay. The incredible views of Exmoor National Park are nearby too, as well as plenty of lovely villages and towns to explore – such as the Victorian seaside resort village of Ilfracombe and its great dining scene. There’s something for everyone in this little corner of Devon.

Price: Starts at around £84 for three nights

Address: Mortehoe Station Rd, Woolacombe, Ilfracombe EX34 8NZ

Photo via Unsplash+

7. Easewell Farm Holiday Park

This holiday park is located in a beautiful and tranquil setting, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. You’ll also be perfectly placed to enjoy the scenic South West Coastal Path which runs close by. Plus, there are plenty of parklands to explore right on the campsite grounds.

Camping doesn’t have to be all about nature though. This campsite has all the bells and whistles to make your stay enjoyable! Facilities include a heated pool complex, golf course, shop, and sports courts. There’s also an outdoor play area for kids, and a bar serving drinks and WiFi.

Guests can also enjoy a delicious meal in the family-friendly pub, or access WiFi while they relax outdoors. It’s no wonder this place is so popular! It’s definitely one of the most luxurious Woolacombe camping options available.

What’s Close By

On-site the heated indoor pool is perfect for families with small children, and the professional golf course is a real treat for golfers. Plus, there’s plenty of other activities on offer at the site itself, including table tennis, darts and pool tables, as well as an indoor, bowls green.

As for what’s close by, there’s plenty of beaches a short distance away, perfect for beach days and swimming. You’ll also find many walks and hikes to enjoy as well.

Price: Starts at around £36 per night

Address: Mortehoe Station Rd, Woolacombe EX34 7EH

iStock.com/Photozek07

8. North Morte Farm Caravan & Camping Park

With direct access to Devon’s fabulous South West Coast Path and breath-taking sea views, North Morte is the perfect spot for an unforgettable family holiday. And with Exmoor starting at Woolacombe, only 15 minutes away, you’ll never be bored!

This campsite has been around since the 1940s, and is particularly special because it sits right next to the beach and has lovely open views. It’s also just a five-minute walk to the town centre, where you can find supplies if needed. The setting is truly beautiful and perfect for a relaxing camping trip.

The site itself features a clean toilet and shower blocks, along with a dishwashing area. There is also a shop on site with a camping gas exchange.

It’s a more rustic camping experience than some on our list, but it’s a great place to get back in touch with nature – while still being in touch with civilisation! It’s also one of the cheapest Woolacombe camping options, with prices as little as £7 per person during low season.

What’s Close By

The coastline near the site is simply gorgeous. Rocky coves, rolling hills, and a sparkling coastline. You’ll love the soft sands, top surfing waves, and great atmosphere. But that’s just the beginning!

There’s also lots of other great things to do in the area, like hopping aboard a boat to nearby Lundy Island and meeting the wildlife, or visiting the stunning Exmoor National Park.

Price: Starts at around £7 per night

Address: N Morte Rd, Mortehoe, Woolacombe EX34 7EG

Photo via Unsplash+

Wild Camping In Woolacombe: 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.

The bad news is that wild camping in Woolacombe isn’t permitted, but it is sometimes tolerated when campers are walking long-distance routes and camping discretely overnight on the way. Such as walking and camping the South West Coast Path – although there are plenty of campsites along the way too.

If you do wild camp, then ensure you camp discreetly and out of the way. Be careful not to damage the ground where you pitch your tent.

If wild camping in Woolacombe, we’d advise sticking to the following guidelines in order to be as considerate as possible:

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Anatolly_Gleb
  • You should camp in the same place for one night only, and pitch your tent discretely and in a remote place. Therefore don’t camp in or near settlements, someone’s farm or on cultivated land. If you think you’re on private land, always seek out the landowner and ask permission.

  • Campers should set up their tent at dusk, and take it down at dawn. A tent that is discreet and pitches quickly is best. Therefore a lightweight walking and hiking tent like this one would be a great investment for someone planning to walk and camp in Woolacombe.

  • If you are walking a main hiking trail you should camp away from the path as a matter of courtesy. 

  • When wild camping in Woolacombe you must never make a campfire. Instead of building campfires, you could look into using a storm cooker for cooking – but check local laws first. Then there is much less wildfire risk and you can cook knowing that the fire is contained. We believe the best ones on the market are Trangia storm cookers.

  • When going to the toilet you should do it far from water sources, such as rivers and lakes. Make sure to use a trowel (like this folding one) to bury any human waste – don’t just leave it out in the open.

  • Like many rugged and wild rural areas around the world, there are flora and fauna to be aware of. So read up and make sure you know what to expect in the region or area you are planning to wild camp in.

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