Best campsites for the South Devon AONB
Here is our pick of the Alan Rogers Assessors, expert-recommended campsites for the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Designated as an AONB back in 1960; South Devon is spread over 330 square kilometres, about 30% of which is coastal. What makes it special is the variety of terrain and habitat, a potpourri of craggy cliffs at Bolt Head, fine beaches at Slapton Sands, idyllic waters of the Dart Estuary, rocky foreshore and nutrient-rich mudflats, heading inland to the rolling farmland, epic views, and pastoral landscape of the interior.
Here the countryside is achingly picturesque with sunken lanes worn by the centuries, pastel-hued cottages, and traditionally farmed small fields bordered by mixed hedgerows. The ancient woodlands of the Avon Valley and the borders of the Avon and Erme are a vital part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’s DNA.
There’s an unspoilt coastline with 60 miles of the South West Coast Path to explore on foot, while the Dartmouth Steam Railway and river cruises offer a more sedate experience. Popular attractions include 14th-century Dartmouth Castle, historic Kingsbridge and picture postcard Hope Cove. This region relies heavily on tourism these days, but agriculture and fishing remain important for the local economy.
Top South Devon AONB Camping Options
Parkland is in an area of outstanding natural beauty and ideally situated for exploring all the stunning South Hams area of South Devon has to offer. Open all year, the site is set within three acres of mature, landscaped grounds with panoramic views over Kingsbridge and Salcombe and the rolling countryside towards Dartmoor National Park.
Plymouth Sound Caravan and Motorhome Club site rests on a headland outside the town of Plymouth and offers superb views across the glorious Sound. This delightful site is close to the South West Coastal Footpath for unforgettable walks, the Plym Valley Cycleway for those keen to experience some wonderful scenery by bike and many lovely beaches. The site has 57 grass pitches (some seasonal) all with electricity 16amp.
Close to the long beach, well served by the adjoinIng farm shop and café you will find peace and quiet in abundance. With just 93 pitches, 60 on hardstandings, all with 16 amp electricity, the site is well located 6 miles south of Kingsbridge. The majority of pitches slope on this terraced site and are surrounded by mature trees adding a sense of privacy. Visit the local bird sanctuary at Slapton Ley, hire kayaks and paddle boards or fish from the shingle beach which is just a short walk away. If sailing is your passion, you can conveniently moor at East Portlemouth to explore the marvellous harbours and creeks of this lovely coastal area. The pubs and cafes in Slapton offer fish & chips and cream teas, plus a micro brewery is just a few minutes walk away. This site is good enough on its own to get you to join the CAMC: it is a popular site so booking is essential.
Modbury Caravan and Motorhome Club site is situated within easy distance to the ancient village of Modbury. Nestled cosily between the moors and the sea, it is the perfect base from which to explore the charming surrounds of South Devon. The site offers you the pleasant choice between the quiet and solitude of beautiful Dartmoor with its tumbling streams, historic landscapes and lush views or the many small villages that make up the pleasantly rural South Hams. The site has 114 grass/hardstanding pitches (some seasonal) all with electricity 16amp.
Steamer Quay Caravan and Motorhome Club site is a pleasantly quiet, green and spacious holiday getaway, with serene pastoral views. It is just a short walk away from the bustling town of Totnes, for a wide choice of local pubs and restaurants. Totnes has been a significant port for many centuries and is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the banks of its busy river while taking in the historic atmosphere. The site has 43 grass pitches. Please note, none have Electric Hook Up.
Open all year, Island Lodge Caravan and Camping Site is a dog friendly base within the beautiful South Devon Area of Outstanding National Beauty. Only 15 minutes from Bantham Beach and close to many attractions, this site is perfect for families and couples on a relaxing break. There are plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful area of South Devon. Dartmoor National Park runs along the main Devon Expressway (A38).
Over the last 50 years, the Squire family have developed this rural park on their farm, which is located near Salcombe, about a mile from South Sands, along a single track lane. South Sands is ideal for boating, sailing and windsurfing as well as providing safe bathing. A ferry runs to Salcombe town. A large, gently sloping, open field has been slightly terraced to provide 90 grass pitches, 70 of which have 16A electricity. In one barn, there is a covered play area for children under 11 years. For older children, there is another barn equipped with table tennis, a skittle alley and a pool table.
Five generations have farmed the land at Bolberry and the present owner’s grandfather started the campsite in the field on top of the hill; this main field enjoys marvellous views of the surrounding countryside and out to sea. There are breathtaking sunsets, and even shooting stars – 15 were seen the evening I visited. This is a traditional campsite, which caters for all units in three fields connected by grass paths with some up and down walking – this is a small price to pay for the views! There are 95 touring pitches with extra allowed in the peak period, well spaced around the edges of fairly level fields with plenty of central space for children to play. Eighty have 10A Europlugs. There are a few static vans to let in a separate area.
Hillhead Caravan and Motorhome Club site is set in 22 acres of beautiful Devon countryside. It comprises 256 pitches, all with 16A electrical hook-ups and many with fine views of Torbay and the surrounding countryside. There are 111 pitches with hardstanding and 13 attractive and sheltered pitches for tents. Amenities are to a uniformly high standard, notably the main complex based around a pleasant courtyard and housing a shop, bar, games room and Nico’s restaurant serving freshly cooked meals using local produce, and a Sunday carvery. The site offers an entertainment programme from Whitsun onwards.
Landscove Holiday Park is a member of the Park Holidays group. This is a popular family park located within walking distance of the picturesque harbour town of Brixham. Please note that there are no touring pitches on this site. Accommodation is provided in a range of fully equipped chalets and mobile homes. This is a lively site in high season with a varied entertainment programme and a club for children (5-14 years). Evening entertainment is of a high standard and is organised on a nightly basis in peak season. Leisure facilities include outdoor and covered swimming pools, an adventure playground and amusement arcade.