The Brecon Beacons are one of the three largest National Parks in Welsh. This National Park was established in 1957, after the first two National Parks in Welsh. The nature around this national park is beautiful, so let us give you a few tips if you plan to go camping in the Brecon Beacons.
For those who love mountain climbing, it’s worth mentioning that the highest mountain peak in South Wales is exactly in the Brecon Beacons. Pen y Fan is 886 meters above sea level and it would take you approximately two hours to climb to its peak.
Take a look at this video and you’ll instantly fall in love with the Brecon Beacons.
Is it legal to camp in the Brecon Beacons?
Camping in Brecon Beacon sounds amazing because of the beautiful green nature with plenty of crystal clear lakes around. However, it’s important to know that wild camping is actually illegal in Wales and most of the UK, except Scotland and Dartmoor.
That being said, people are still wild camping in the Brecon Beacons all the time. There are some guidelines though. You should never camp near the rodes or houses. Avoid places where there are many people around.
When you decide to wild camp, you should always do it silently. Pack lightly, don’t leave any trash behind. Nobody is gonna give you a bad time unless you are thrashing nature or someone’s property. Also, you shouldn’t disturb people on their hikes.
Generally, the best way to wild camp is to avoid pitching your tent before dusk. Wait for the sun to almost set down and then pitch it. That way you’ll stay hidden and won’t bother anyone.
Never ever start a campfire. With so many portable cookers available today, it’s not worth risking a fire spreading. Also, it’s illegal to start a campfire in the wild. If you really want to enjoy a campfire, go to one of the official campsites that we’ll cover later on in this article.
Keep moving, don’t stay on one spot for longer than a day. Most landowners won’t mind if you stay overnight, but keep moving as soon as the sun is up.
Make sure you don’t cause water or ground pollution and don’t harm the wildlife.
Tips For Wild Camping In Brecon Beacons
Since the weather in the UK is quite unpredictable, you should always prepare for the worst. That means make sure your tent is waterproof, and bring some sort of a waterproof jacket. You should always do your best to stay as dry as possible.
Some of the stuff you should also bring with you:
- Flashlight
- Water bottle
- Sleeping bag
- Spare underwear & socks
- First aid kit
- Clothing made out of wool
Nights can get pretty cold even during summer, so make sure you pack something warm.
Don’t drink water from the river or lakes unless there is a sign or you know that it’s safe to drink. Consuming things that grow in the wild is not the smartest thing you do. If this is your first camping trip, only eat the food you brought with you.
If you need to go on a toilet and you are in the wild, do it at least 30 meters away from water sources. Use a trowel to bury it and don’t leave anything behind you.
Before visiting any part of the Brecon Beacons, make sure you read about the flora and fauna present in that area, in other words, beware of poisonous plants and dangerous animals.
In conclusion, camping in the wild can be an awesome experience, although, you need to take certain precautions.
Official campsites in the Brecon Beacons
If you don’t like to be on the move all the time, official campsites are for you. Perhaps you want to settle and enjoy the nature around you. For example, you may require certain facilities that can mostly be found at campsites.
Just because you stay at an official campsite, it doesn’t make you less adventurous. However, not every campsite is a good one. In other words, let us help you find the best official campsites in the Brecon Beacons.
1) Brecon Beacons Camping & Caravan Park
Located near the national show caves center, this campsite is a very affordable campsite to stay at. The campsite is surrounded by grass fields and trees. There is also a caravan park suitable for your caravans or motor homes.
Facilities at the site include:
- Electrical supply – There is a limited number of these though.
- Free WiFi
- Dog–friendly – The dog has to be on a lead all the time.
- Shower rooms
- Toilet
- Hand basin
- Freshwater tap
Check the prices here.
2) Grawen Caravan & Camping Park
Located near the Llwyn-Onn Reservoir on the southern part of Brecon Beacons. This campsite is ideal for families, couples and also for people who like to enjoy peaceful mornings and beautiful nature views. 2 Miles from the campsite you can find a small village Cefn Coed where you can shop or drink at the pub.
Facilities that are included:
- Hot showers
- Dog-friendly – Keep them on leads
- Play area – For the kids
- Utility room – Laundry machine and dishwashing area
- Electric hookups
- Toilets
- Bus stops nearby
- Fast food delivery possible
Check the price here.
3) Plas Dolygaer
Located minutes away from Pontsticill reservoir, this campsite is surrounded by beautiful nature. Near the campsite, you may find museums, historical castles, mountain views and more. There are plenty of activities you may do near the campsite such as climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, raft building, and more.
Facilities at the site include:
- Shower blocks – There are also specialized showers for disabled people
- Toilets – Specialized for disabled people as well
- Kitchen for hire – Microwaves, Dishwashers, Fridge, Freezer, Cooker
- Parking space
Check the prices here.
4) Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park
Located almost at the heart of Brecon Beacons, Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park is ideal for those who love outdoor activities. You can do many different things around here such as cycling, mountain biking, canoeing, bird watching, pony trekking, and more. This campsite is located very close to the highest peaks of Brecon Beacons.
Facilities at the site include:
- Shower rooms
- Heated toilet blocks
- Dishwashing room
- Drying room
- WiFi
- Shops
- Restaurant nearby
No dogs are allowed at this campsite, so if you were planning to bring yours, you might take a look at another campsite on this list.
Check the prices here.
5) Lakeside Caravan Park at Llangorse Lake
Located next to the beautiful Llangors Lake, this campsite offers many opportunities for those who want to enjoy the outside activities. Llangors Lake is famous for pike fishing, so if you enjoy fishing, this might be an ideal place for you to stay at.
The prices are more than affordable, so if you are on a budget, definitely take a look at this campsite. Facilities available on site are:
- Pet-friendly
- Electric hookups
- BBQ
- Bar
- Play Area
- Parking
- Shops
- Toilet blocks
- Shower blocks
- Water points
Check the prices here.
Looking for alternative camping spots around the Brecon Beacons? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Find out amazing camping spots in the Dolomites, South Downs, Sardinia, Andalucia, North York Moors, Peak District.
