Best Dog-Friendly Campsites in the UK

Camping with your dog is one of the great outdoor experiences. No kennel costs, no separation anxiety, just fresh air and adventures together. The UK has hundreds of dog-friendly campsites, but some go far beyond simply allowing dogs. These ten stand out for their walking access, dog facilities and welcoming atmosphere.

What Makes a Great Dog-Friendly Campsite?

Beyond simply permitting dogs, the best sites offer:

• Direct access to walks from the site (no car needed)
• Secure, enclosed pitches or designated dog exercise areas
• Dog washing facilities
• No breed restrictions
• A relaxed atmosphere where dogs are genuinely welcome, not merely tolerated
• Nearby dog-friendly pubs and beaches

South West England

Treen Farm, Cornwall

Perched on the cliffs above Porthcurno, Treen Farm offers pitches with Atlantic views and direct access to the South West Coast Path. The nearby Logan Rock pub is dog-friendly, and Porthcurno Beach allows dogs outside summer months. The Minack Theatre is a short walk away.

Highlights: Cliff-top setting, coast path access, no booking needed (turn up and pitch)

Eweleaze Farm, Dorset

Open for just six weeks each summer, Eweleaze is a field camping site that rolls down to its own private beach on the Jurassic Coast. Dogs run free on the beach and through the wildflower meadows. It sells out fast, so book as soon as dates are announced.

Highlights: Private beach, wildflower meadows, utterly unspoilt setting

Lake District and North

Baysbrown Farm, Great Langdale

Set in the heart of the Langdale valley, this National Trust campsite offers fell walking direct from your tent. Crinkle Crags, Bowfell and the Langdale Pikes are all accessible without driving. The Old Dungeon Ghyll pub is a five-minute walk away.

Highlights: Fell walking from the tent, river swimming nearby, historic pub next door

Hooks House Farm, Robin Hood's Bay

This North Yorkshire site sits on the clifftops above Robin Hood's Bay with views along the coast. The Cleveland Way passes the gate, and the fishing village is a 15-minute walk downhill. Dog washing station on site.

Highlights: Coastal views, Cleveland Way access, dog wash facilities

Wales

Hillend Campsite, Gower Peninsula

Right behind the dunes of Rhossili Bay, regularly voted one of the best beaches in the world. Dogs have unrestricted access to the 3-mile beach. The Worm's Head headland walk is spectacular at any time of year.

Highlights: World-class beach, direct dune access, surfing

Shell Island, Gwynedd

A 450-acre private peninsula with its own beaches, sand dunes and wildlife. Dogs are welcome everywhere and can run free on the vast, empty beaches. The site is wonderfully wild and uncommercialised.

Highlights: Private beaches, 450 acres to explore, completely wild feel

Scotland

Camusdarach Campsite, Highlands

The silver sands of Camusdarach (the beach from the film Local Hero) are a short walk from this small, peaceful site. Views to the islands of Rum, Eigg and Skye are extraordinary. Dogs welcome throughout with no restrictions.

Highlights: Famous beach, island views, remote Highland location

Applecross Campsite, Wester Ross

Reached via the dramatic Bealach na Ba pass (one of the highest roads in the UK), Applecross feels genuinely remote. The campsite overlooks Skye across the Inner Sound. The Applecross Inn serves excellent seafood and welcomes dogs.

Highlights: Dramatic approach, sea views to Skye, outstanding pub

East England

Kelling Heath, Norfolk

A premium holiday park set in 300 acres of woodland and heathland on the north Norfolk coast. Unlike many holiday parks, Kelling Heath has extensive walking trails through the site itself, plus the Norfolk Coast Path is within reach. Dog shower station and dog-friendly bar on site.

Highlights: 300 acres of walks, coastal access, dog shower on site

Tips for Camping with Dogs

• Stake and long line: A corkscrew stake and 5-metre line gives your dog freedom at the pitch without risk of them wandering.
• Familiar bedding: Bring their usual bed or blanket for the tent. Familiar scents help dogs settle in new environments.
• Poo bags and disposal: Always use bins provided. Nothing ruins a campsite faster than inconsiderate dog owners.
• Night-time routine: Dogs may be unsettled by new sounds (foxes, owls, other campers). A covered crate inside the tent helps nervous dogs feel secure.
• Livestock awareness: Many farm campsites have livestock nearby. Keep dogs on leads when walking through fields and never leave dogs unattended outside.
• Tick check: Check your dog for ticks every evening, especially at rural and coastal sites.
• Water supply: Carry a portable water bowl and make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times, particularly in hot weather.
• Booking: Always confirm the dog policy when booking. Some sites charge per dog (typically 2-5 per night). Others limit the number of dogs per pitch.