Camping in Hainault Forest

·

Once part of the Forest of Essex, this age-old 280-acre expanse sprawling northeast from London has been protected since back in the 12th century. Dive into its horse-riding, cycling and walking routes, keeping an eye out for some of the 130 bird species among the trickling streams, whispering oak trees and wide-open heathland. A ‘monster trail’ keeps kids busy, and the whole area is dog-friendly. Autumn is a delightful season to explore Hainault Forest, with foliage slipping into rust-red clothes, while spring is perfect for vibrant blooms. You’ll want to book nearby campsites well ahead, especially in July and August when things get busy.

96% (1.6K) 1,088 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hainault Forest

4. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

16 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm. At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night. Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature. We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire. If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace. January Booking Special: Save 10% on all stays booked in January for any dates later this year with CODE: TSWVL3G2
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night

5. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night

12. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

16. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£68
 / night

18. Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

95%
(10)
1 unit · Tent · England
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping has just one pitch but the folk here keep the grass trimmed for easy pitching and you can park right next to the pitch. It's a tiny Wild Camping site with no running water, toilets or showers. What Noakes Meadow does have is plenty of space for you to enjoy and camp fires are definitely allowed. A wheelbarrow of fire wood can be purchased for £10 Cash/Paypal/Bank Transfer on arrival. This site is far away from the madding crowds though close to the M20 and A20 for easy access. A mere 10-minute stroll along the road is a fab 16th-century country inn for food and pints. On the other hand you could always fire up a barbie and sizzle some sausages or grab a take away from the chippie 7 minutes away in the nearby village of Lenham. This wild camping site operates a leave no trace policy so be prepared to bag up and take everything with you when you leave.
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night

19. Secluded Woodland Camp

95%
(10)
27 units · Tents, Glamping · Ware, England
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
£12
 / night

20. Berty the yurty

94%
(18)
1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England
Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£105
 / night

Once part of the Forest of Essex, this age-old 280-acre expanse sprawling northeast from London has been protected since back in the 12th century. Dive into its horse-riding, cycling and walking routes, keeping an eye out for some of the 130 bird species among the trickling streams, whispering oak trees and wide-open heathland. A ‘monster trail’ keeps kids busy, and the whole area is dog-friendly. Autumn is a delightful season to explore Hainault Forest, with foliage slipping into rust-red clothes, while spring is perfect for vibrant blooms. You’ll want to book nearby campsites well ahead, especially in July and August when things get busy.

96% (1.6K) 1,088 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Hainault Forest

4. Furnace Brook Cabins & Camping

16 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Welcome to Furnace Brook, a tranquil 60-acre Ecosystem Restoration Community tucked away in the rolling countryside of East Sussex. Here, peace, wildlife, and connection to nature come first. Whether you’re waking up in a handcrafted lakeside cabin or camping beneath the stars, this is a place to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover calm. At the heart of the land lies our beautiful lake, surrounded by native trees and wildflowers. Herons, dragonflies, and kingfishers visit often, and misty mornings give way to glowing sunsets reflected on the water. Our cabins blend simple comfort with rustic charm — natural materials and wide windows that open to birdsong. For campers, we have rural private pitches or spacious and communal spaces. It’s quiet here — no loud music, no generators, just the crackle of a fire and the sounds of nature at night. Furnace Brook is part of a working Ecosystem Restoration Community. Every stay supports rewilding and soil regeneration, helping wildlife and woodland return to the landscape. Guests are welcome to wander our trails, learn about the restoration work, or simply enjoy being surrounded by thriving nature. We also brew our own small-batch Furnace Brook Beer, made with local ingredients — the perfect companion for a lakeside sunset or a cosy evening by the fire. If you’re looking for stillness, beauty, and a genuine connection to the natural world, Furnace Brook offers it in abundance. Come to rest, reflect, and experience life at nature’s pace. January Booking Special: Save 10% on all stays booked in January for any dates later this year with CODE: TSWVL3G2
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£25
 / night

5. Far and Away Camping

100%
(18)
40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
Nestled within the heart of the Kent countryside, Far and Away allows you to escape into a rural, peaceful and wild campsite. The skies are full of song birds and birds of prey, hot air balloons dominate the still summer evenings and there is always a spitfire or biplane circling from the local aerodrome. With close to zero light pollution, the night skies are a stunning way to end the day not to mention Far and Away sunrise and sunsets are also worth staying up for! Immerse yourself in the heart of the beautiful Kent countryside and take advantage of the many public footpaths around the campsite. Far and Away is 1.2 miles away from Headcorn village where you can find a host of local amenities, shops, pubs and restaurants. There is also a host of National Trust sites within a short drive including Sissinghurst Castle and many wonderful villages to visit including medieval Biddenden and the magical market town of Tenterden. Next to junction 8 of the M20 there is also Leeds Castle, only a 20 minute drive from Far and Away and the Big Cat Sanctuary is only a few fields away. At night you can hear the roar of the wild cats really making it feel like you are Far and Away!
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£18
 / night

12. Bellatent

100%
(3)
1 unit · Glamping · England
Newly open this year! Only between July and August! Our exclusive campsite offers a true escape from Wi-Fi and other distractions. Enjoy the lovely setting of this romantic spot in nature. Beautiful walks in surrounding areas include the South Downs link. 30 minutes from Gatwick and 2 -3 miles from the town of Horsham Our bell tent is about experiencing the simplicity and tranquility that only nature can provide. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in a rural and private location. A serene and private bell tent camping experience—a perfect retreat to reconnect with nature and your loved ones. This bell tent offers a double bed for a comfortable sleep, a double futon (on request) and small furnishings for a back to basics experience. We provide clean running water with a sink, a camp toilet, bbq, outside fire pit, wood, utensils however no shower and NO ELECTRIC. Wake up to the sight of lush greenery and the sounds of birds chirping. Our location provides a peaceful environment where you can unwind and soak in the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or relaxing in front of the fire, our bell tent camping experience is designed for everyone. Create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. Parking is located just off the bridle way where you will find a wheelbarrow to load up and walk over to the bell tent. Walk down the field and you will find the orchard where the bell tent is situated in the corner of your own personal paddock. Padlock on gate and tent is 7415. No driving on the field.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£64
 / night

16. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£68
 / night

18. Hill Top Farm Wild Camping

95%
(10)
1 unit · Tent · England
Hill Top Farm Wild Camping has just one pitch but the folk here keep the grass trimmed for easy pitching and you can park right next to the pitch. It's a tiny Wild Camping site with no running water, toilets or showers. What Noakes Meadow does have is plenty of space for you to enjoy and camp fires are definitely allowed. A wheelbarrow of fire wood can be purchased for £10 Cash/Paypal/Bank Transfer on arrival. This site is far away from the madding crowds though close to the M20 and A20 for easy access. A mere 10-minute stroll along the road is a fab 16th-century country inn for food and pints. On the other hand you could always fire up a barbie and sizzle some sausages or grab a take away from the chippie 7 minutes away in the nearby village of Lenham. This wild camping site operates a leave no trace policy so be prepared to bag up and take everything with you when you leave.
Campfires
from 
£13
 / night

19. Secluded Woodland Camp

95%
(10)
27 units · Tents, Glamping · Ware, England
Glamp or pitch up here in our secluded and peaceful mini off-grid site combining both field and forest. We have a shared under cover space and also an outdoor fire-pit to gather more than 20 people comfortably. There is a simple compost loo for your use with hand-washing and dish washing area outside. And the rest is all Mother nature! There is no running water or drinking water. You will need to bring your own. No electricity points or WIFI are in the campsite and no masts nearby so enjoy the EMF cleanse. Whether you chose to stay in the ancient woodland or the herbal pasture, you will feel the benefits of reconnecting with yourself in nature, breathing the clean air and hearing the birds singing. The parking is 800m away and there is minimal tractor use so you can imagine yourself roaming the fields and forest of England in days gone by. Fitness required. It's a long walk from the car park to the campsite. Trolleys provided.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
£12
 / night

20. Berty the yurty

94%
(18)
1 unit · Glamping · Canterbury, Kent, South East England
Our beautiful handmade yurt is set amongst an ancient orchard on an idyllic smallholding, nestled between the Kent Downs AONB and Kent's spectacular coastline. The smallholding itself is a slice of rural Kent with free-range chickens just a stone’s throw away, you’ll soon be making some fairly unique friends. We have such a great location, Canterbury is just 10 minutes drive away and the trendy coastal town of Whitstable can be reached within 20 minutes. Berty the yurty is 5 metres in diameter and comfortably sleeps 2 adults and an infant. Inside Berty you'll find a super comfy double bed, tea and coffee making facilities, a cracking little wood burning stove, table and two chairs and a mini-fridge to keep those all important beverages ice cold. We'll make sure there are some essential local food items from the farm (bread, eggs, milk, butter) waiting for you when you arrive. Outside you an outdoor kitchen space to cook, outdoor patio eating area, camp fire, as well as a composting toilet, hot shower and washing up facilities adjacent to Berty, which are exclusively for your use. Berty is tucked away at the far end of the smallholding on the edge of a 20 acre accessible ancient woodland with bluebells flowering in the months of April & May. The small holding is home to free range chickens and other animals. Eggs are complimentary and we're more than happy to arrange for you to collect them yourself if you're in a 'hunter/gatherer' sort of mood as well as a loaf of bread, milk, butter and apple juice. Our rural location is truly fantastic! You'll instantly feel the stresses and strains of everyday life disappear as you soak up the delightful Kent countryside and adjacent ancient woodland. The picturesque Stour valley is just down the road, Canterbury and it's cathedral are only 10 mins away and Kent's extensive coastline can be reached in less than 20 mins. Some delightful pubs and restaurants can be found in Canterbury, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to top quality country pubs in the local area.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£105
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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Camping in Hainault Forest guide

Where to go

Lee Valley Country Park

Beyond Hainault Forest itself, campers can explore the nearby Lee Valley, which stretches along the River Lea northeast from London into Buckinghamshire and Essex. Some of it was transformed into London’s Olympic Park for the 2012 games, bringing a welcome green lung to the capital’s east. Its handful of campsites take in tent spots, caravan parks, cosy lodges and pre-pitched safari tents, while adventure activities swing from white-water rafting to rowing along the river to leisurely horse riding.

Epping Forest

Another favourite nature spot on London’s fringes, Epping Forest sits just north of Hainault on the Essex-Hertfordshire border. With endless hiking paths, cycling routes, horseback trails and everything from paintball to windsurfing, you’ll be spoilt for entertainment. And while you can’t pitch up in the forest itself, there are wild-camping and caravanning sites on its edges.

Kent Coast

Kent’s beach-strung northern coastline awaits within a two-hour drive of Hainault Forest, offering up lively, bohemian beach towns such as Whitstable and Margate alongside miles of seaside walks, plenty of watersports and tempting ocean-view camping spots.

Suffolk Coast

Trundle less than two hours east from Hainault Forest to reach the pretty villages, Tudor mansions and pastel-painted resorts dotted around Suffolk’s sleepy littoral, not to mention the unmissable Algo-Saxon burial mounds at Sutton Hoo. Rewarding hikes lead along the 96-km Suffolk Coast Path, with tempting stops including Aldeburgh. There’s also fabulous coastal cycling, along with sunset horse rides along the golden beaches.