Camping in North Cornwall: the complete guidenotes from the farm

North Cornwall is the county's wilder side, with towering cliffs, surf beaches, small harbours and big Atlantic skies. If you're thinking of camping in Cornwall, this guide covers everything we've learnt from more than 80 years of welcoming campers at Lower Pennycrocker Farm near Boscastle.

Why choose North Cornwall?

The north coast runs from Bude down past Boscastle, Tintagel, Port Isaac and Padstow towards Newquay. Compared with the south coast it's more rugged, with fewer large resorts and more open countryside. The South West Coast Path follows the whole length, and beaches range from tiny coves to wide surf strands such as Widemouth Bay.

When to go

Spring (April–May)

Quieter lanes, wildflowers on the cliffs and fresh, bright days. Nights can be chilly, so bring warm sleeping bags.

Summer (June–August)

The warmest months and the best for beaches. School holidays are the busiest time, so book early. At Pennycrocker our prices don't change in the holidays.

Autumn (September–October)

Often calm and golden, with warmer seas than spring and far fewer people. We stay open until 31 October.

Choosing a campsite

North Cornwall has everything from large holiday parks with pools and clubhouses to simple farm fields. Think about what you want:

• Peace or entertainment? Farm sites like ours are quiet, with no bar or evening entertainment.
• Location: being near the coast path or a village saves driving.
• Facilities: check showers, toilets, electric hook-ups and whether you can park by your pitch.
• Pitch type: grass or hardstanding matters for motorhomes in wet weather.
• Dogs and groups: check the rules before you book.

Camping at Lower Pennycrocker Farm

We're a family-run farm site at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle. We welcome tents, touring caravans and motorhomes, families and dogs (up to two). Expect open views, free showers, parking beside your pitch and a warm welcome from Colin and Karyn.

What to pack

Coastal weather is changeable. Pack good pegs, a windbreak, waterproofs, warm layers, walking boots and a head torch. Our North Cornwall camping packing list has the full checklist.

Beaches

Near us, Crackington Haven is the closest sandy beach. Further north, Widemouth Bay and Bude's beaches are great for families and surfing. Always check tide times and swim at lifeguarded beaches. See our beach guide.

Walking

The coast path is about half a mile from the farm. Favourite walks include Boscastle to Tintagel, the Valency valley to St Juliot church, and Crackington Haven to High Cliff. See walks near Boscastle.

Day trips

Tintagel, Port Isaac, Bude, Padstow and Bodmin Moor are all within easy reach. Read our day trips from Boscastle post.

Eating out

Boscastle has pubs, cafés and tea rooms around the harbour, and Port Isaac and Padstow are known for seafood. See places to eat near Boscastle.

Respecting the countryside

• Follow the Countryside Code: close gates and leave no trace.
• Keep dogs under control near livestock.
• Take litter home and keep noise down late at night.

For reference, our 2026 prices per night are: adults £10, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Awnings and showers are free, parking is beside your pitch and groups are limited to 8 people. We are open from 1 April to 31 October and reception is open 9am–7pm. See pitches & prices for the details.

North Cornwall campsites: what to look for

North Cornwall has everything from large holiday parks to small farm sites. Think about how close you want to be to the beaches, the coast path and the villages, and whether you want quiet or entertainment. Our checklist on how to choose the best campsite in Cornwall helps you compare sites. Once you are here, see things to do in north Cornwall and our pick of the best beaches in north Cornwall.

FAQs

Start planning with our camping in Cornwall page.

Check availability at Lower Pennycrocker Farm