Practical tips for camping with a baby or toddler in Cornwall, from sleep to easy days out.
Camping with a baby or toddler might sound daunting, but many parents find it surprisingly relaxed. Fresh air, simple routines and time outdoors together make for happy memories. This guide shares practical tips for camping with little ones in Cornwall, from what to pack to choosing the right campsite and easy days out near Boscastle.
Choosing a campsite
Quiet sites
A quiet site without bars or late-night entertainment can make it easier for little ones to sleep. At Lower Pennycrocker Farm, there's no bar, no entertainment and no play area, just open fields, so evenings are usually peaceful. Read about quiet camping in Cornwall.
Facilities
Look for:
- Toilets and showers close to your pitch.
- A washing-up room for bottles and dishes.
- Electric hook-up if you want to run a bottle warmer or a small heater.
Our site has free showers, toilets, a disabled toilet and a washing-up room. Electric hook-up is £7 per night.
Prices
At our campsite, children under 5 aren't on our tariff, so please mention them when you book. Children aged 5 and over are £5 per night. See pitches and prices.
What to pack
Sleeping
- A travel cot or a familiar sleeping space.
- Baby sleeping bags suited to the night-time temperature.
- Extra layers, as nights can be cool on the coast.
- A blackout cover or dark sleeping area for light summer evenings.
- A baby monitor if you'll be sitting outside.
Feeding
- Bottles, steriliser and formula, if needed.
- Bibs and wipes.
- Easy snacks for toddlers.
- A cool box for milk and food.
Changing
- Nappies and wipes.
- Nappy bags.
- A changing mat.
- Spare clothes, and then more spare clothes.
Daytime
- Baby carrier or sling for walks. Many coast path and valley walks aren't buggy friendly.
- A sun tent or UV shelter for the beach.
- Sun cream, hats and swim nappies.
- Waterproof all-in-one suits for toddlers.
See our camping packing list for the rest of your kit.
Sleep tips
- Keep routines simple and as close to home as you can.
- Dress for the temperature, checking regularly that baby isn't too hot or cold.
- Use a dark space so light evenings don't delay bedtime.
- Expect early mornings. Tents get light early in summer.
Keeping warm and dry
Cornwall's coastal weather can change quickly. Bring layers and waterproofs for everyone, and a hot water bottle for your own bed (never in a baby's bed). A well-pitched tent or a van helps. See our guide to camping in wind and rain.
Safety on site
- Keep little ones away from guy lines, stoves and barbecues.
- Watch for cars moving on site.
- Keep medicines and gas bottles out of reach.
- Use a lantern at night.
Easy days out near Boscastle
- Boscastle harbour: a short, flat stroll along the river to the harbour. See our Boscastle with kids post.
- Beaches: Bude's beaches and Widemouth Bay are sandy and wide, which toddlers love. Read our beaches near Boscastle guide.
- Rock pooling: at low tide, with close supervision.
- Short walks: the lower Valency Valley is a lovely walk with a carrier.
When to go
Spring and early autumn can be ideal with a baby, as the campsite and beaches are quieter and the weather is often milder. Summer is busiest. See our best time to visit Boscastle guide.
Rainy days with little ones
Rain is part of any Cornish holiday. Pack a few favourite toys and books for the tent or van, and plan some indoor options. Cafés in Boscastle, Bude and Tintagel make good stops, and splashing in puddles in waterproof suits is often a hit with toddlers. A dry change of clothes in the car is essential. See our rainy day ideas for more.
Tips from parents
- Do a trial night in the garden first.
- Keep the first trip short, such as two or three nights.
- Pitch close to the toilet block.
- Relax your expectations and enjoy the slower pace.
Night-time
Head torches are invaluable for night feeds and nappy changes, as they keep your hands free. Use a red light setting if your torch has one, as it's less likely to wake a sleeping baby. Keep everything you'll need overnight within reach: nappies, wipes, a bottle, and a spare sleepsuit.
Beach with a baby
Pick sandy beaches with easy access and parking nearby, and go early or later in the day to avoid the strongest sun. A small sun shelter, plenty of water and a towel for sitting on all help. Keep a close eye on the tide; see our beach safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is camping with a baby a good idea?
Yes, with the right kit and a quiet campsite. Many families find it relaxing.
Do under-5s pay at Lower Pennycrocker Farm?
Children under 5 aren't on our tariff. Please mention them when you book.
Are there baby changing facilities?
Please ask when you book. We have toilets, a disabled toilet and showers.
What is a good first camping trip with a toddler?
Two or three nights at a quiet site close to a sandy beach.
For term dates across the year, see Cornwall school holiday camping dates. With very young children, try our toddler-friendly days out near Boscastle.
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.
Coming over the Easter school holidays? See Easter holiday camping in Cornwall for dates and booking tips.
