When you see nature in combination with castles, it’s no wonder the Isle of Wight is a top tourist destination for decades already. Awesome beaches, historic buildings, cliffs, forests, there is literally everything here. If you didn’t already, we suggest you add camping on the Isle of Wight to your travel bucket list. We promise you won’t be disappointed when you see all that it has to offer.
The Isle of Wight is the sunniest region in the whole UK which makes it ideal for a summer destination. There are multiple dinosaur footprints perfectly preserved and available to see, so make sure you don’t miss out on them. Tourism is “a thing” for a long time on the Isle of Wight, so you can expect quality service wherever you go.
Wild camping: Is it legal on the Isle of Wight?
Wild camping is not legal or allowed on the Isle of Wight. Some people will still take their chances and go camping in the woods, but you can be fined, so we advise against it. The only exception is if you get permission from the landowner to pitch your tent there. Some might advise you to camp on the beaches, but we must warn you that it’s not allowed either.
If you still decide to camp in the wild, please follow these basic guidelines:
- Don’t leave anything behind you
- Use a storm cooker, and NEVER start a campfire, they can easily spread
- Don’t camp near buildings or fenced properties
- Avoid camping near hiking trails or people in general
“This might seem like a rather underwhelming suggestion, but try the garlic farm! There’s a nice cafe in there with home cooked food and you’ll be surprised at what they can do with garlic (and the sheer number of types of garlic).“
– Dead_Ghost on Reddit
Best time for camping on the Isle of Wight
The best time to visit the Isle of Wight is as expected, during summer. Day temperatures will average between 15 and 23 degree Celsius and there are just a few rainy days. If you are into hiking and generally exploring nature, this would be the best period to come and visit. On the other hand, if you wish to avoid a big number of tourists, go during Autumn.
Even though you will rarely experience snow on the Isle of Wight, the day temperatures are pretty low. That’s why we suggest wearing layered clothing and always preparing for the worst weather. Still, compared to the other parts of the UK, the weather is much better.
Things you should bring with you:
- Umbrella – Even though rainy days are mostly rare during summer, it’s still the UK after all.
- Windbreaker – Especially during winter months
- Good hiking shoes – Lots of cliffs to explore
Fun fact, Isle of Wight is one of the best places for stargazing, so make sure to bring a light stargazing tent with you. The island authorities are working hard to reduce all the light pollution so that people can enjoy clear skies.
Isle of Wight Campsites
1. Southland Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite
Located in Newchurch, this campsite is close to many attractive points such as Amazon World Zoo, Sandown Beach, and Shanklin & Sandown Golf Club. It is pet friendly and has plenty of space available for booking. The facilities at the site include Wi-Fi, Disabled Facilities, a Dishwashing area, Toilet blocks, Showerblocks, etc. The prices are affordable and you can come both as a solo camper or with family.
Things to do around
- Visit Amazon Zoo
- Explore Newchurch
- Hiking
Pricing:
£14.50 per night
Address:
Winford Rd, Newchurch, Sandown PO36 0LZ, UK
2. Comforts Farm
Comforts Farm is a campsite on the north side of the Isle of Wight. It is surrounded by many interesting points such as Thorness Bay Beach, Wight Military and Heritage Museum, and the former royal residence Osborne. The campsite is spread across 9 acres of meadow while also a few minute’s driving distances away from the sea. Facilities include a washing-up room with a spin drier, deep sinks, irons, heated water, hot showers, and more.
Things to do around
- Visit the Wight Military and Heritage Museum
- Picnic on the Thorness Bay Beach
- Visit Osborne
Pricing:
£13 per night for Caravan, Motorhome, Tent, or trailer Tent with up to 2 adults & 2 children of 16 years old or below.
Address:
Pallance Rd, Northwood, Cowes PO31 8LS, UK
3. Camp Wight
Located on the west part of the Isle of Wight, near Ningwood, this campsite has plenty to offer. From fantastic nature all over the site to therapies and educational sessions with local specialists. Therapies include sound massage, yoga, self-love, eco-therapy, and more. Facilities on-site include fire pits, running water, toilets, showers, and charging outlets while shops and pubs are also near the site.
Things to do around
- Visit Hamstead Point Beach
- Explore the National Trust Newtown National Nature Reserve
- Have a drink at the Horse & Groom
Pricing:
£15.00 per night for up to 2 adults & 2 children
Address:
Camp Wight, Ningwood Hill, Yarmouth PO41 0XP, UK
4. Heathfield Farm Camping Park
A family-run campsite that’s located on the west part of the Isle of Wight. The whole place is surrounded by different types of trees and shrubs. It is very close to the Golden Hill Fort which was a defensible barrack built in 1859. Also, the campsite is near the sea so you can explore beautiful nature points nearby. The facilities include showers, toilets, wash cubicles, hairdryers, and more.
Things to do around
- Visit Golden Hill Fort
- Try local food in one of many restaurants nearby
- Explore the shoreside in Colwell Bay
Pricing:
3 nights minimum, starts at £24 per night for up to 2 adults
Address:
Heathfield Rd, Norton Green, Freshwater PO40 9SH, UK
5. Windmill Campersite
Windmill Campersite is located in the heart of the Isle of Wight. The Carisbrooke Castle is a minute of walking distance away from the campsite which provides quite a scenery. The facilities include “showershack” which is a shower block enhanced by a sound system, disco lights, and hot air. Toilet block, a social area, and even a helicopter where you can sleep. There are different options to book, but all have a fair price.
Things to do around
- Visit Carisbrooke Castle
- Play golf at Newport Golf Club & Driving Range
- Visit St Olave’s Church built in 1292.
Pricing:
Starts at £25 per night
Address:
Froglands Farm Cottage, Froglands Ln, Newport PO30 3DU, UK
Conclusion
The Isle of Wight is a beautiful place full of quaint villages, cliffs, beaches, and castles. If you want a peaceful location full of historic buildings, this Isle is a must. While camping in the wild is forbidden on the Isle of Wight, there is a good number of official campsites, as you can see in our guide. The region is great both for family camping and solo/couple camping.
