An honest guide to Cornwall's main camping areas and what each is like, to help you pick the right base.
Cornwall is a long, narrow county with very different coasts, and where you pitch your tent makes a big difference to your holiday. The north coast is wild and dramatic, the south coast is softer with sheltered estuaries, the far west has famous beaches and art towns, and the moors in the middle feel remote and open. This guide compares the main areas to help you decide where to camp. We are biased, of course. Our family campsite, Lower Pennycrocker Farm, is on the north coast near Boscastle, but we will be fair about every area.
North Cornwall coast (Bude to Padstow)
Best for: walkers, surfers, quiet farm campsites, dramatic scenery.
North Cornwall's coast faces the Atlantic. It has high cliffs, surf beaches, small harbours and some of the most spectacular stretches of the South West Coast Path. Key places include:
- Bude: wide sandy beaches, a sea pool and a canal. See our Bude day trip.
- Crackington Haven and Boscastle: dramatic cliffs, a famous harbour and quiet coves.
- Tintagel: castle ruins and Arthurian legend.
- Port Isaac and Padstow: fishing villages, seafood and the Camel estuary.
The north coast is often a little less crowded than the far west in summer, especially around Boscastle and Crackington. Farm campsites here tend to be simple and peaceful. Read our camping in North Cornwall guide for more.
South Cornwall coast
Best for: sheltered beaches, sailing, gardens, families wanting calmer seas.
The south coast faces the English Channel and is generally gentler, with wooded creeks, estuaries and pretty fishing villages such as Fowey, Mevagissey and Polperro. The sea is often calmer than on the north coast, which suits families with young children. Big gardens and attractions, including the Eden Project, are in this part of the county.
West Cornwall (St Ives, Penzance and the Lizard)
Best for: famous beaches, art, and the far-west landscape.
The far west includes St Ives, Penzance, Land's End and the Lizard. It has stunning beaches and a strong arts scene, but it is also the most popular area in high summer, and roads and car parks get busy. Our St Ives day trip guide covers a visit from the north coast.
Bodmin Moor and inland Cornwall
Best for: dark skies, hill walking, peace and quiet.
Bodmin Moor sits in the middle of Cornwall, with granite tors, open moorland and prehistoric sites. Camping inland is quieter and often cheaper, and you are within reach of both coasts. Our campsite is about six miles from Rough Tor, on the moor's northern edge. See our Bodmin Moor guide.
When to go
Cornwall is busiest in the school summer holidays, especially August, and on bank holiday weekends. Prices at many sites rise at these times and the best pitches book up early. Spring and autumn are quieter everywhere, with mild weather and much easier parking. September is a favourite with many campers, because the sea is still warm and the beaches are emptier. See our best time to visit Boscastle guide for a month-by-month view.
How to choose
Ask yourself a few questions:
- Beach or walking? For surf beaches, the north coast and far west. For gentle bathing, the south coast. For walking, the north coast is hard to beat.
- Busy or quiet? Big holiday parks with entertainment are found across Cornwall. If you prefer quiet farm camping, look for small, family-run sites.
- Short or long trip? On a short trip, don't try to see all of Cornwall. Pick one area and explore it well.
- Tent, caravan or motorhome? Narrow lanes affect caravans and motorhomes everywhere. Check access when you book.
Why we love North Cornwall for camping
- Wide-open sea views and spectacular sunsets.
- Some of the best walking on the South West Coast Path.
- Fewer crowds than the most famous hotspots.
- Dark skies for stargazing.
- Easy access via the A39 Atlantic Highway.
Choosing a campsite
Wherever you go, think about:
- Facilities you need: showers, toilets, electric hook-up, washing-up.
- Facilities you don't need: some people want pools and clubhouses; others want silence.
- Pitch type: grass or hardstanding. Grass sites need levelling blocks for vans.
- Dog policy: limits and charges vary.
- Group size rules: many quiet sites restrict group sizes.
Our booking tips post has more advice on securing the right pitch.
Lower Pennycrocker Farm
If the north coast appeals, we are a quiet, family-run campsite near Boscastle with grass pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, free showers and parking beside your pitch. Read more on our camping in Cornwall page.
Where to stay in Cornwall if you also want Devon
If you want to see a little of both counties, staying on the north coast near the border keeps drive times manageable. See camping in Devon and Cornwall and our guide to things to do in north Cornwall.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better for camping, north or south Cornwall?
It depends on what you want. The north has dramatic cliffs, surf and great walking; the south has calmer seas and sheltered creeks.
What is the quietest part of Cornwall to camp?
Inland areas and parts of the north coast, such as around Boscastle and Crackington Haven, tend to be quieter than the busiest spots in the far west.
Is Bodmin Moor good for camping?
Yes, for peace and dark skies, and it is central for reaching both coasts.
How far is Lower Pennycrocker Farm from the beach?
The coast path is about half a mile away, and beaches such as Crackington Haven are a short drive.
Still have questions? Our Cornwall camping questions answered page covers booking, facilities, dogs and getting here. Not sure where to base yourself? Compare Boscastle, Tintagel and Bude.
Stay near Boscastle
Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle (PL35 0BY). We welcome tents, touring caravans, motorhomes and campervans from 1 April to 31 October. Adults are £10 a night, children aged 5 and over £5, electric hook-up £7 and dogs £2 each (maximum two). Showers are free and you park beside your pitch. Check availability and book direct, or see pitches and prices.
