Campers' Paradise
Dorset is a top camping destination, offering diverse campsites from the Jurassic Coast to North Dorset's countryside. Whether you want a family-friendly site with amenities or a quiet rural retreat, this guide covers the best spots for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Eweleaze Farm, Weymouth
Outstanding sea views await you at Eweleaze Farm. This busy, family-friendly campsite is popular with glampers, campers and campervans alike. It’s part of Dorset National Landscape, a designated AONB. Its private beach and cliffs form part of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. The campsite has everything you might want – coffee shop, bakery, pizza van, ice cream parlour, bar, farm shop, you name it! Weymouth, Durdle Door and the South West Coast Path are all within easy reach. eweleaze.co.uk
Snelling Farm, near Bere Regis
Located just six miles south of Bere Regis, this family-friendly campsite and working farm is perfect for a quiet rural retreat. The camping field provides ample tent space, with magnificent oak trees lining its edges. Watch the sun set amongst the trees while you enjoy an open fire. Moreton Ford (great for paddling!), the Walled Garden at Moreton and St Nicholas Church are all worth a visit. Many more of Dorset’s attractions are within easy reach by car. snellingfarmcampsitedorset.co.uk
Woodfrys, Melbury Abbas, Shaftesbury
With a large lake, mature trees and plentiful wildlife, Woodfrys Farm is situated in stunning surroundings. It's an easy place to relax in your tent, campervan or the shepherd’s hut. North Dorset is full of ancient history, wildflowers and great walks. Enjoy a walk or cycle ride to Shaftesbury, Melbury Beacon or Win Green. And if you ask nicely, owners Liam and Hannah would be delighted to take you along on their evening animal feeds. woodfrysfarm.co.uk
Black Pig Retreats, Motcombe, Shaftesbury
The ultimate glamping experience. Situated in Motcombe, north of Shaftesbury, Black Pig Retreats is truly delightful. Guests can choose from luxury safari tents, the Bothy (a gorgeous shed) or Piglet (a romantic yurt). Each tent has hot showers, flushing loos and heated towel rails. Get up and explore the woods and meadows, or slow down and enjoy the incredible views over the Blackmore Vale. Sorelle, an Italian-inspired café, serves food and drink to meet a variety of tastes on site. blackpigretreats.com
Steeple Leaze, near Kimmeridge
This family-friendly working farm is located in the heart of the Isle of Purbeck. Surrounded by rolling countryside, Steeple Leaze offers 'turn-up and pitch-up’ camping with no booking required. Multiple tent pitches are available. Kimmeridge Bay, Tyneham Village and Worbarrow Bay are all within walking distance. Treat yourself to a roast, a pint or both at one of the area’s local pubs. Other attractions further afield include Lulworth, Durdle Door, Corfe Castle, Studland, Wareham and Swanage. steepleleazefarm.co.uk
Dorset Nectar Cider Farm, Waytown, Bridport
This adults-only (age 20+) cider farm and campsite is a must visit. Located just 10 minutes north of Bridport, the Dorset Nectar Cider Farm comes with real wholesome vibes. Whether you’re cider tasting or waking up to birdsong, the farm provides a glorious feast for the senses. Don’t miss out on live music on-site every Saturday, the incredible delights of Oliver’s Kitchen, and the farm’s 3rd World Nettle Eating Contest! Several coastal and inland attractions are also within easy reach of this West Dorset AONB. dorsetnectar.co.uk
Hartland Stud, near Wareham
Hartland Stud is much more than a campsite. You’ll often catch a glimpse of horses in the pen; the yard buildings are a hive of activity with local independent businesses; and the new café is a delight, selling huge tasty homemade cakes, hot drinks and hearty homemade pasties. If you’re still hungry, there’s a pub just up the road. RSPB Arne is an hour’s walk away. hartlandstud.co.uk
Downshay, Harman’s Cross
One of several campsites at the main junction between Corfe Castle and Swanage, Downshay takes prime position on the hill with incredible sunset views of the castle. A short walk down the hill takes you to Harman’s Cross railway station where you can hop on the steam train to explore the area. There’s also glamping options with bell tents and a shepherd’s hut. A real local treasure. downshayfarm.co.uk
Bredy Farm, Burton Bradstock
This adults only site offers rustic orchard camping split over two fields joined by a bridge, a buzzing bar and restaurant with live music and DJs - which sets the tone for the vibe. Unlike many local sites, larger groups are welcome so it’s a great place for a gathering. It’s also home to several music festivals in the summer, including On The Bus and BeCider Seaside. bredyfarm.com
Mount Pleasant Farm, near Blandford Forum
Mount Pleasant is the ultimate rural retreat. Breathe in deeply at this serene glamping site where cosy canvas lodges await you. Set in the heart of the Blackmore Vale, Mount Pleasant is a working farm with lots to do on site. It’s also within easy reach of several attractions such as Bulbarrow, one of Dorset’s highest points, Ringstead and Lulworth Cove. If you own a horse, well, you can bring it too! Stable accommodation is available at the farm. featherdown.co.uk/mount-pleasant-dorset-dorset
Tom's Field, Langton Matravers
Tom's Field Campsite in Langton Matravers is perfect if you’re after a rustic, no-frills camping holiday. Its fields are surrounded by old stone walls and provide campers with excellent views towards Swanage Bay and the Purbeck Hills. The South West Coast Path can be accessed at Dancing Ledge, a 30-minute walk away. Be sure to visit the famous Square & Compass pub. Breakfast and pizza are served at the on-site café, and several workshops are available for children and adults alike. tomsfieldcamping.co.uk
Weston Farm Campsite, Worth Matravers
The new kid on the Purbeck block, Weston Farm opened just last year giving Square & Compass regulars another camping option - a stone’s throw away from one of the best pubs in the county. Run by the National Trust, who also look after the Brownsea campsite (see page 2), this a tent only site, so doesn’t accommodate van life, but that adds to the picturesque tranquility. nationaltrust.org.uk/holidays/dorset/weston-farm-campsite
