in our own words
October is a special time to camp in Cornwall. The summer crowds have gone, the light is golden, and the sea can still feel surprisingly mild. Lower Pennycrocker Farm is a quiet, family-run campsite at St Juliot, about two miles from Boscastle, and we're open until 31 October.
Why camp in October?
- Quiet beaches and paths: outside half term, you can have whole coves to yourself.
- Beautiful light: low autumn sun, perfect for photos.
- Sunsets: earlier sunsets mean you won't stay up late to see them.
- Autumn colours: the Valency Valley woods turn gold.
- Wildlife: seals and their pups may be seen along the North Cornwall coast in autumn. Keep your distance and never disturb them.
October half term
The October half term is a popular time for families. Book early if you want those dates.
What the weather is like
October can bring calm, sunny days and strong autumn storms. Check the forecast before you travel and come prepared for wind and rain. See our tips on camping in wind and rain.
What to pack for October camping
- A warm sleeping bag and an insulated mat.
- Warm layers, a hat and gloves.
- Waterproof jacket and trousers.
- Extra tent pegs and guy lines.
- Head torches, as it gets dark early.
- A flask for hot drinks.
Electric hook-up is available if you'd like to keep devices charged or use a small heater. See our electric hook-up explained guide.
Autumn walks
The coast path is about half a mile from our campsite.
- Valency Valley: wooded and colourful in autumn. See our Valency Valley walk.
- Boscastle to Tintagel: about five miles on the coast path. See our Boscastle to Tintagel walk.
- Bodmin Moor: Rough Tor is about six miles away. See our Bodmin Moor guide.
- Golitha Falls: a woodland walk on the edge of the moor. See our Golitha Falls guide.
See more walks near Boscastle.
Beaches in October
Beach walks are wonderful in autumn, but lifeguard cover is reduced or has ended at many beaches by October. Never swim alone, and check tide times. See our beach safety and tides guide and our Widemouth Bay guide.
Surfing in autumn
Autumn often brings good swells to North Cornwall. If you surf, bring a thick wetsuit. See our surf camping guide.
Halloween and autumn days out
Boscastle's Museum of Witchcraft and Magic is a popular visit at this time of year. Check opening times before you go. See our Boscastle harbour guide.
For rainy days, see our rainy day guide.
Photography in October
October is a dream for photographers. The low sun lights up the cliffs, sunsets come early, and autumn storms bring dramatic seas. Try Boscastle harbour at golden hour, the clifftops above Pentargon, and the view from Willapark lookout. See our Willapark lookout guide. On a clear, dark night, our campsite is a good place to photograph the stars. Stay well back from cliff edges, especially in wind or wet weather.
Making the most of shorter days
Days are shorter in October, so plan ahead. Start walks early, carry a head torch, and aim to be back before dark. Pitch your tent in daylight when you arrive. In the evenings, a warm drink, a good book and a cosy sleeping bag make for a relaxing night.
Food in autumn
Autumn is a great time for hearty Cornish food: pasties, local fish and a cream tea after a walk. See our Cornish food guide and places to eat in Boscastle. Some places have shorter hours later in the season, so check before you go.
Our facilities
- Free showers.
- Toilets and a disabled toilet.
- A washing-up room.
- Grass pitches for tents, campervans, motorhomes and touring caravans.
There's no shop on site. See our facilities page, and pitches and prices for current prices.
Where we are
Lower Pennycrocker Farm, St Juliot, Boscastle, Cornwall PL35 0BY. Our what3words address is happen.violinist.inserted. See getting here.
Booking
Check live availability and book direct using the booking bar on our home page, or call Colin and Karyn on 07967 605392. Reception hours are 9am to 7pm.
For agricultural shows and carnivals near us, see our shows and events calendar near Boscastle.
Before October: September
If you can travel a little earlier, September often brings warmer seas and settled days. Read Cornwall in September and our best time to visit Cornwall guide.
Questions we often get
When do you close?
We close on 31 October.
Is October too cold for camping?
Not with the right kit. Bring a warm sleeping bag and layers.
Are dogs welcome in October?
Yes, up to two dogs per pitch, on a lead. Autumn is a lovely time for walks with dogs. See our Boscastle with dogs guide.
Is there a shop on site?
No. Stock up in Boscastle or Camelford on your way, and check opening hours, as some shops close earlier in autumn.
Is October half term busy?
It's busier than the rest of October, so book early.
Can I surf in October?
Yes, with a good wetsuit. Check lifeguard cover first, as many beaches have none in October.
Camp two miles from Boscastlefields, sky and sea
Spacious, quiet farm pitches with free showers, free awnings and parking beside your pitch. Open 1 April – 31 October.