If you’re planning a UK camping trip over the coming months, New Forest naturally stands out as one of the most attractive destinations. Before packing your walking boots and sleeping bag, though, you must first select the right place to stay.
It is estimated that 42% of Brits camp at least once per year and the perfect location will provide the strongest foundation for building an unforgettable getaway filled with magical memories. Here’s all you need to know.
Why New Forest?
Covering parts of Hampshire and Wiltshire with a total area of over 219m2, New Forest is one of the largest expanses of unenclosed pasture land, heathland and forest spaces in Southern England. It remains one of the most popular camping getaway spots in the country.
New Forest has a pleasant climate, particularly throughout the summer season of June to September, when temperatures stay in the double digits even at nighttime. Moreover, it is a popular destination for families, friends, couples, and solo travellers alike for many reasons. They include but are not limited to:
- Enjoying walks, hikes, and cycling activities.
- Spotting wildlife and birdlife.
- Playing sports or classic campaign games.
- Enjoying day trips to theme parks, museums, and other attractions.
- Visiting historic houses and heritage attractions.
- Relaxing away from the stresses of modern life.
Whether it’s a long weekend or a fortnight, New Forest is one of the UK’s most popular camping destinations for good reason.
Finding the Perfect Camping Spot with a Campsite Operator
New Forest is blessed with several campsites, and you can certainly take the DIY approach to organising your trip. However, finding the right campsite operator will ensure that your trip runs smoothly.
Harry’s camping in New Forest has three wonderful campsites located at Frogham, Hale Park, and Burley. All three locations offer easy access to New Forest National Park, as well as several interesting villages and towns in the region. Nobody wants to spend half of their getaway travelling to attractions, which is why choosing a campsite that’s conveniently located for daily adventures as well as excursions to any spots you wish to explore should be a priority.
Moreover, there are hundreds of spacious pitches across the three sites, and there are great facilities to make the adventures safe and comfortable. When combined with the plethora of outdoor adventures on your temporary doorstep, from trails to streams and rivers, every day will be packed with joy for campers of all ages. Of course, it is the perfect setting for camp games and cooking over a fire in the evening too.
The checklist for any campsite should include feeling safe, access to facilities, opportunities for outdoor adventures, sizable pitches, convenient location, quick access to nearby attractions, and affordability. A campsite that offers this as well as the support of a customer care team who want to help, you won’t go far wrong.
It doesn’t matter whether you seek child-friendly activities, dream of pub lunches, or want a camping spot that is cut adrift and allows you to get back in touch with nature. Speaking to an operator with multiple campsites will ensure that the solution best aligned with your requirements can be selected.
If you require a little extra comfort when visiting New Forest, look for campsites that offer glamping. As well as providing a more luxurious experience, this saves you from having to buy and pack tents. Regardless of what type of shelter you choose, the right location is a vital ingredient in the recipe for success.
Top Tips for Camping in New Forest
The right location for your New Forest camping trip will provide the perfect starting point for an incredible outdoor adventure. However, it’s equally crucial to remember that the experience is hugely influenced by your preparations and approach.
Whether it’s your first trip to New Forest or you’re a returning camper, the following advice should point you in the right direction:
- Take care to choose the right travel companions, as vacations are a known cause of broken friendships.
- Research the activities available at your campsite and pack bicycles, water equipment, or other items you may need.
- Pack clothes for all weather scenarios – you can never fully trust the British weather!
- Always run key vehicle checks before setting out, and pack key breakdown items like jump leads.
- Be ready for nighttime with warm and comfortable sleeping bags. Use gnat-repellent sprays too.
- Leave room for spontaneity, but schedule visits to any must-see attractions.
Whether visiting at the height of summer or any other time in the calendar, New Forest is bursting with adventures.
Image: Irina Iriser, Unsplash