Camp Sites Near Me – Find Open Sites with Electric Hook Up
Finding a campsite near you that’s open now, has electric hook-up, and can be booked online is rarely straightforward. The UK has thousands of sites, but availability changes daily, and the information is spread across multiple directories. This article cuts through the clutter, showing you exactly how to search, compare, and book – whether you need a last-minute pitch, a family-friendly site with a pool, or a quiet wild camping spot.
What campsites are open near me right now?
The first thing to know: “open now” is not a universal filter on most campsite directories. You’ll need to check each site’s opening dates manually or use platforms that surface live availability. As of early June 2026, most seasonal sites with spring opening dates (March–April) are likely operational, but vacancies vary.
Top campsites near you at a glance
| Campsite name | Distance from you | Key amenities | Open now? | Price range (per night) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holmsley Campsite, New Forest | Depends on location | Electric hook-up, toilets, showers, shop, takeaway, dog wash | Yes (opened March 2026) | See booking site |
| Treloy Touring Park, Cornwall | Depends on location | Heated outdoor swimming pool, play area, electric hook-up | Yes (seasonal opening shown) | See booking site |
| Watermouth Valley Camping Park, Devon | Depends on location | Family-friendly, sea views, electric hook-up | Yes (seasonal opening shown) | See booking site |
| Crowdecote Campsite, Buxton | Depends on location | Adult-only, electric hook-up optional, guest-friendly facilities | Yes (seasonal) | See booking site |
Key insights about finding a campsite near you
- Most campsites near major UK cities (London, Manchester) book out 2–3 weeks in advance during summer.
- Only about 40% of UK campsites offer electric hook-up – filter early if you need it.
- Wild camping is only legal on Dartmoor, parts of Scotland, and some remote areas; always check local bylaws.
- Campsites with swimming pools or beach access typically cost 20–30% more per night.
- December–February sees 80% of campsites closed or operating reduced services.
Key facts about UK campsites
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total campsites listed across major UK directories | Over 12,000 |
| Campsites.co.uk – number of sites advertised | More than 3,200 (camping, glamping, touring) |
| Pitchup – bookable campgrounds with electric hook-up | 2,945 |
| Caravan and Motorhome Club CL network – small certificated locations | 2,100+ (over 80% with electric hook-up) |
| Average search radius for “near me” queries | 10–40 miles |
| Most popular amenities requested | Electric hook-up (72%), showers (89%), dog-friendly (65%) |
| Platforms offering live availability filtering | Pitchup and Campsites.co.uk |
| Seasonal openings – typical start dates | March–April for spring; many close October–November |
Which campsites near me have electric hook up?
Electric hook-up (EHU) is the most requested amenity after showers. It allows you to plug your caravan, motorhome, or tent (with an adapter) into a mains electricity supply. But not all hook-ups are the same.
Electric hook-up can be on grass, hardstanding, or touring-only. Hardstanding is best for motorhomes in wet weather. Also confirm whether the hook-up fee is included in the pitch price or charged extra – this varies by site.
What is the difference between a tent-only site and a motorhome site?
Tent-only sites usually provide grass pitches with a shared electric point. Motorhome and caravan sites often have dedicated hardstanding pitches with individual EHU, water, and waste disposal. Some sites accept both, so check the booking description carefully.
Do all campsites with electric hook up also have water and waste disposal?
No. Many smaller sites or certificated locations (CLs) may have EHU but only basic water access and no chemical waste point. Larger club sites and commercial parks nearly always include full service facilities. The Caravan and Motorhome Club states that over 80% of its CLs have electric hook-up, but amenities vary.
Can I find campsites near me with hardstanding pitches for motorhomes?
Yes. Use the hardstanding filter on Pitchup or Campsites.co.uk. Many sites also list whether the pitch is all-weather. Examples include Holmsley Campsite (hardstanding from 26 March 2026) and Treloy Touring Park.
Where can I camp near London or Manchester?
City-adjacent camping is limited but possible. Most campsites within 30 miles of London or Manchester fill quickly, especially in summer. Public transport access is rare but some sites near railway stations exist.
What are the best campsites near London with good transport links?
Few campsites are within walking distance of a station. Lee Valley Camping and Caravanning Park (near the M25) has bus links. Other options include sites in Kent or Surrey that are a short taxi ride from a station. The National Trust lists “best places to camp near me” but these are mostly car-dependent.
Are there any wild camping spots near Manchester?
Wild camping is not legal in England without landowner permission. However, the Peak District is within an hour’s drive and offers some remote areas where camping is tolerated – but not legally guaranteed. Always ask permission.
How far out of London do I need to go for a quiet campsite?
Expect to travel at least 20–30 miles from central London for a peaceful site. The New Forest (about 90 minutes) and the South Downs are popular choices. For Manchester, the Peak District or Lake District (about 1–2 hours) offer much better options.
What are the best wild camping and nature-focused sites in the UK?
Wild camping in the UK is restricted, but there are legal and tolerated spots. Dartmoor and much of Scotland allow wild camping under certain conditions. For those who prefer a site with facilities, some of the most nature-focused campsites are located in national parks or near beaches.
Wild camping is only legal without permission on Dartmoor (subject to local bylaws) and in most of Scotland under the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Elsewhere in England and Wales you need landowner permission. Always check current rules before setting out.
Is wild camping legal in Dartmoor?
Yes, but with restrictions. The Dartmoor Commons Act allows wild camping in certain areas. You must follow the Dartmoor wild camping rules, which include leaving no trace, camping only in designated zones, and not staying more than two nights in one spot. Check the official guidance for updates.
Which campsites in the Lake District are closest to hiking trails?
Great Langdale and Wasdale Head campsites are adjacent to popular walking routes. Both have electric hook-up and basic facilities. Booking well ahead (3–4 weeks in peak season) is essential.
What makes Llyn Gwynant or Clachtoll Beach campsites special?
Llyn Gwynant in Snowdonia sits beside a lake with mountain views, offering a wild feel with facilities. Clachtoll Beach in Scotland is a quiet coastal site with direct beach access. Both are known for their natural settings but have limited hook-up options – check before booking.
For more options, read our Best wild camping spots in the UK guide.
How do I find campsites within 5 miles of my location?
Hyperlocal search works best using a combination of directory filters and map tools. Most platforms default to a 10–40 mile radius, but you can narrow it down.
What search filters should I use on Pitchup or Campsites.co.uk?
On Pitchup — campsites near me, you can filter by electric hook-up, open now, and enter a specific postcode. Campsites.co.uk — find and book offers a similar sidebar with region and amenity filters. Neither has a strict “within 5 miles” radius, but you can experiment with narrower postcode searches.
Can I use Google Maps to find campsites near me?
Yes. Type “campsites” into Google Maps with your location. It will show nearby sites with ratings, opening hours, and often a website link. The data is crowd-sourced, so call ahead to confirm availability.
How can I save my favourite local campsites?
Both Pitchup and Campsites.co.uk allow you to create a favourites list if you create an account. Google Maps also lets you save places to a custom list.
When to book: campsite availability calendar
- January–March: Low season. Most sites closed or limited. Best for advanced planning and researching your summer trips.
- April–May: Shoulder season. Many sites open weekends only. Book about 1 week ahead.
- June–August: Peak season. Book 3–4 weeks ahead. Wild camping restrictions may apply (e.g. Dartmoor).
- September–October: Autumn camping. Mild weather, fewer crowds. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.
- November–December: Many sites closed. Christmas markets at select club sites – check Camping and Caravanning Club.
How reliable is “near me” search data?
| Established information | Information that remains unclear |
|---|---|
| Directories update inventory daily; live availability is generally accurate within 24 hours. | Real-time availability may lag – a site shown as available might be booked by the time you call. |
| “Open now” filters reflect core operating hours for sites that have provided seasonal dates. | Independent sites may not update their opening dates promptly; seasonal closures are not always reflected. |
| Pitchup and Campsites.co.uk both show verified reviews. | Review recency matters – a campsite with 5-year-old reviews may have changed management or facilities. |
Always call ahead for last-minute bookings, especially on weekends or bank holidays.
Why is UK campsite data so fragmented?
The UK campsite market is split across four major directories – Pitchup, Campsites.co.uk, UKCampsite.co.uk, and the Camping and Caravanning Club – plus dozens of niche sites and individual operator websites. No single platform covers every campsite, and “open now” data is particularly inconsistent because many small sites update their own pages manually.
Google’s “near me” algorithm prioritises recency, distance, and review quantity. Campsites with 50+ recent reviews tend to rank best in search results. This means that a well-reviewed site with current photos will appear more often than a newer or less-reviewed site, even if it’s actually closer to you.
There is no authoritative source for real-time, cross-platform availability. The most reliable method is to cross-reference two or three directories and then check the campsite’s own website or call directly.
What do the major directories say?
“We’ll show you campsites that are open now within 40 miles.”
Pitchup.com homepage
“Our campsites near me function is here to help. Find the nearest and best local campsites at the touch of a button.”
Campsites.co.uk search page
“Take a look at our best places to camp in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.”
National Trust camping page
For independent reviews, UKCampsite.co.uk — independent reviews hosts over 250,000 user-submitted reviews. The National Trust camping page curates sites on their own land, and official bodies like Dartmoor wild camping rules and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code provide legal guidance for wild camping.
What’s the best way to find a campsite near me?
Bookmark two or three directories – Pitchup for live booking, Campsites.co.uk for breadth, and UKCampsite.co.uk for reviews. Use amenity filters early (electric hook-up, dog-friendly, open now). Always check the campsite’s own website or call for last-minute bookings. For a deeper understanding of site rules and expectations, read our Complete guide to UK camping etiquette and rules.
Frequently asked questions about campsites near me
What is the best website to find campsites near me?
Pitchup and Campsites.co.uk are the two largest directories with live availability. UKCampsite.co.uk has the most reviews.
Can I camp on National Trust land?
Yes, at designated National Trust campsites. Wild camping is not generally permitted on National Trust land without permission.
Do I need to book campsites in advance?
During peak season (June–August), book 2–3 weeks ahead. Off-peak, 1 week is usually sufficient.
What does “electric hook up” mean at a campsite?
It allows you to plug your caravan, motorhome, or tent (with adapter) into a mains electricity supply.
Are campsites near me open all year?
Many are seasonal (March–October). A small number, especially club sites, operate year-round. Always check before travelling.
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