With the arrival of summer, many families are looking for ways to enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories. Camping is an affordable, fun, and adventurous way to spend quality time together, and the UK is packed with incredible campsites that cater specifically to families. Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent in the countryside, set up near the coast, or enjoy a spot with a range of family-friendly activities, there’s a campsite to suit every type of family.
Personally, I have been camping almost every year since I was a young child, and now, my husband and I take our toddler on camping adventures too. Camping has always been a part of my life, and I love the way it brings families together, providing a much-needed break from the daily grind. In this post, I’ll highlight some of the best family-friendly campsites across the UK and share activities that are perfect for children of all ages – ensuring that everyone, from toddlers to teens, has a fantastic time in the great outdoors.
1. Coombe Mill, Cornwall
Cornwall is a wonderful destination for family camping holidays, and Coombe Mill is a standout campsite for families with younger children. This farm-stay campsite combines the magic of nature with hands-on experiences for little ones. Kids can feed the animals, collect eggs, and even enjoy tractor rides around the farm – perfect for budding animal lovers.
For older children, there’s plenty of space to explore, as well as a river for paddling, fishing, and discovering the local wildlife. With self-catering lodges and glamping options available, Coombe Mill is a great choice if you’re looking for a mix of rustic adventure and creature comforts. Nearby, the beaches of North Cornwall offer a chance to relax, swim, or build sandcastles, rounding out the perfect family summer holiday.
2. Cotswold Farm Park, Gloucestershire
For families with a mix of ages, Cotswold Farm Park offers something for everyone. This campsite is situated on a working farm owned by BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, and the farm park itself is a massive hit with children. Young kids can meet and feed the farm animals, while older ones can take part in nature trails or try their hand at fossil hunting.
The on-site playgrounds and large open spaces are perfect for little ones to burn off energy, and in the summer months, they often host family events like outdoor cinema nights. With easy access to the beautiful Cotswolds countryside, this campsite is an excellent base for family walks, bike rides, and wildlife spotting. Plus, there’s the option to stay in a tent, caravan, or cosy glamping pods.
3. Forest Holidays, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
For families who love the idea of woodland adventures, Forest Holidays in Sherwood Forest provides a magical experience. Sherwood Forest, famously known for its connection to Robin Hood, is a fantastic backdrop for exploring the great outdoors. This campsite offers a range of accommodation options, from tents to log cabins, and is set in the heart of a vast forest.
The site’s “Forest Ranger” experiences are a real highlight, allowing kids (and adults!) to learn about the local wildlife, discover how to build shelters, and even try their hand at archery, echoing the tales of Robin Hood. Younger children can explore the natural playgrounds, while older kids and teens will enjoy biking and hiking through the dense forest trails. For a peaceful and nature-filled family camping experience, Sherwood Forest is hard to beat.
4. Sandy Balls, New Forest, Hampshire
Yes, it’s really called Sandy Balls – and it’s one of the most family-friendly campsites in the New Forest. This holiday village offers camping, caravanning, and glamping, making it a versatile choice for families. Nestled in the stunning New Forest National Park, it’s perfect for those who want to combine camping with a bit of luxury.
The site boasts a range of activities for children of all ages. There’s a fantastic adventure playground, mini-golf, and even horse riding available. For younger children, the Kids’ Club offers nature-themed activities, while older kids and teens can get involved in archery, cycling, or paddleboarding on the nearby lakes. Plus, the forest itself is perfect for family walks, where you’ll likely encounter the famous New Forest ponies.
5. Llanungar Caravan and Camping, Pembrokeshire
For families looking to combine camping with seaside adventures, Llanungar Caravan and Camping in Pembrokeshire is an excellent choice. Located near the picturesque town of Solva and just a short drive from some of the most stunning beaches in Wales, this campsite is a great base for coastal exploration.
Children will love the freedom to explore the natural surroundings, while older kids can enjoy activities like rock pooling, bodyboarding, and kayaking at the nearby beaches. Pembrokeshire’s coastal paths are ideal for family walks, offering spectacular views and the chance to spot wildlife like seals and seabirds. If your family enjoys water sports and the seaside, this is a perfect spot for a fun-filled summer camping trip.
6. Riverside Park, Scotland
If you’re venturing further north, Riverside Park in Scotland is a great family campsite, located near the beautiful town of Perth. This riverside location offers a peaceful retreat, and its proximity to local attractions means there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
Children will enjoy the on-site play areas and the chance to spot wildlife along the river, while older kids can take part in fishing or cycling along the nearby trails. Riverside Park is also close to historic castles, museums, and adventure parks, so it’s easy to combine outdoor activities with a bit of local culture.
Activities to Keep the Whole Family Entertained
Camping is a fantastic way to bond as a family and enjoy the natural beauty the UK has to offer. To make your camping trip even more fun, here are a few extra activities suitable for various age ranges:
- Scavenger hunts: Perfect for younger children, scavenger hunts can be organised around the campsite. Create a list of items for the kids to find, such as pinecones, leaves, or animal tracks.
- Star gazing: Older children and teens may enjoy a quiet evening of star gazing. Pack a telescope or download a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets in the night sky.
- Campfire storytelling: Gather around the campfire and tell stories, sing songs, or make s’mores. It’s a fun activity that kids of all ages can enjoy.
- Nature crafts: Collect natural materials like sticks, stones, and leaves, and let the kids use them to make crafts or create art. This is a great way to inspire creativity while connecting with nature.
Conclusion
Camping in the UK offers families the chance to escape daily routines and immerse themselves in nature. With so many family-friendly campsites available, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore the countryside, coastlines, and forests of this beautiful country. From animal encounters to outdoor adventures, these campsites provide plenty of activities to keep children of all ages entertained, ensuring your summer holiday is one to remember. So pack your tent, grab the marshmallows, and get ready for a summer filled with outdoor fun!
