Portsmouth Camping: Best Campsites Near Portsmouth, Hampshire

Portsmouth is one of the UK’s most important ports and a popular cruise port of call, with passenger ferries setting sail for France, Spain, and the Channel Islands. Discover the city’s maritime heritage at the Historic Dockyard, climb the Spinnaker Tower for a magnificent view across the Channel, or enjoy a picnic in Victoria Park. Sunny days are best spent at Southsea Beach, where you’ll also find the city’s only camping ground. While you’re there, visit Southsea Castle, cruise around Canoe Lake on a pedal boat, and stroll along the South Parade Pier.

Some of Britain’s most-recognisable historic ships, including HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, have found a permanent dock at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the city’s flagship tourist attraction. If camping near Portsmouth, it’s likely that this and the National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth are on your list of things to do, but there's plenty more to see too.

Hop aboard a harbour boat tour, head up the Emirates Spinnaker Tower for far-reaching south coast views, or visit King Henry VIII’s Southsea Castle. Shingley Southsea beach also stretches east of the castle as a must-visit spot for seaside fun.

Just across the harbour from Portsmouth is Gosport, where there’s more maritime history, beaches, and watersports. In the other direction, it’s not far to the classic seaside destination of Hayling Island. Southampton, the historic city of Winchester, the South Downs National Park, and the New Forest are all about half an hour’s drive away.

95% (2.1K) • 1,094 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Portsmouth

Portsmouth is one of the UK’s most important ports and a popular cruise port of call, with passenger ferries setting sail for France, Spain, and the Channel Islands. Discover the city’s maritime heritage at the Historic Dockyard, climb the Spinnaker Tower for a magnificent view across the Channel, or enjoy a picnic in Victoria Park. Sunny days are best spent at Southsea Beach, where you’ll also find the city’s only camping ground. While you’re there, visit Southsea Castle, cruise around Canoe Lake on a pedal boat, and stroll along the South Parade Pier.

Some of Britain’s most-recognisable historic ships, including HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, have found a permanent dock at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, the city’s flagship tourist attraction. If camping near Portsmouth, it’s likely that this and the National Museum of the Royal Navy Portsmouth are on your list of things to do, but there's plenty more to see too.

Hop aboard a harbour boat tour, head up the Emirates Spinnaker Tower for far-reaching south coast views, or visit King Henry VIII’s Southsea Castle. Shingley Southsea beach also stretches east of the castle as a must-visit spot for seaside fun.

Just across the harbour from Portsmouth is Gosport, where there’s more maritime history, beaches, and watersports. In the other direction, it’s not far to the classic seaside destination of Hayling Island. Southampton, the historic city of Winchester, the South Downs National Park, and the New Forest are all about half an hour’s drive away.

95% (2.1K) • 1,094 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Portsmouth

1. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(72)

108km from Portsmouth · 3 units · Glamping

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

2. Radcot Leisure on Thames

89%

(305)

103km from Portsmouth · 50 units · Tents, Glamping

A Thames’ island campsite in the Oxfordshire countryside – with a lovely pub just over the bridge

3. Chalky Downs

96%

(605)

70km from Portsmouth · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Traditional tent camping in a stunningly-located South Downs farm, just down the road from buzzing Brighton

4. Rest and Retreats Shepherd Huts

109km from Portsmouth · 2 units · Glamping

Our shepherd huts are designed with indulgent luxury in mind, you will sleep well, in a king size bed with high thread count cotton sheets covering goose down filled pillows and duvet. “Freddie" hut will enhance your connection with the great outdoors with a gorgeous skylight above your bed. By day a cascade of natural light, by evening framing a view of the stars. For those wintery nights snuggle in and de-stress in front of the wood burning stove with a brew or glass of Prosecco on us. When you choose to rise listen to your Roberts radio in your fully equipped kitchen with premium appliances, enjoying breakfast on us with fresh milk, orange juice, cereals & a small loaf of local sourdough, fresh jams and of course a coffee made from your Nespresso. Located down an old Roman road in an ancient village you will have far reaching views of the Oxfordshire countryside, a few minutes stroll away a fantastic community owned pub awaits, local pint or well earned GnT? Let us host you here at Restandretreats for that romantic break or just to escape, unwind and clear your mind. Our location has the best of both worlds, your shepherd hut is located in an ancient Roman village in the Oxfordshire countryside, yet just 5 miles from the centre of Oxford with all its history and university colleges. If you choose you can compliment your stay with an indulgent shopping trip to Bicester Village premium outlet (11m) or Blenheim Palace (8m) with all its history and events on offer. Jeremy Clarksons Diddly squat farm (21m) and his new public house have also become popular with our guests. If walking or running is more your focus then why not explore the beautiful RSPB Otmoor bird reserve, a haven for wildlife with many visitor trials to enjoy, it’s merely a short walk away. Whatever your visit has in store our cosy pub, The Abingdon Arms, is waiting only 100metres walk away, offering fine ales and fine dining or perhaps just a take away pizza. We do welcome our furry 🐕 friends, but NOT in our “Freddy” hut, please check out our other listing for our dog friendly “Edie” shepherd hut listed on Airbnb. We can offer single nights Sunday through Thursday in the quieter months - please message us here or reach out to us at RestandRetreats and we will always see what we can do

5. The T Barn

99%

(90)

118km from Portsmouth · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester

6. Primrose Fields Campsite

97%

(204)

80km from Portsmouth · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Back-to-basics camping in a Dorset hay meadow

7. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

78km from Portsmouth · 22 units · Tents, Glamping

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

8. Stockbridge View Campsite

93%

(89)

45km from Portsmouth · 62 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A simple campsite in the Test Valley, just a 15-minute walk from Stockbridge

9. Sweet Hill Farm

94%

(296)

102km from Portsmouth · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Simple, almost-wild, seaside camping on the Isle of Portland

10. Far and Away Camping

100%

(18)

127km from Portsmouth · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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!

11. Shotover Country Park Wild Camping

103km from Portsmouth · 25 units · Tents

Our 7 acre property is a mixture of woodland and meadows with a fresh water spring and several fruit and nut trees. It is wild and mysterious with amazing sunsets and we are just a stones throw away from Shotover Country Park, which is the real Narnia. C S Lewis lived on the edge of Shotover woods and so we can fairly assume that Shotover is the inspiration for the Narnia trilogy. Shotover Country Park is one of Oxfords best kept secrets and consists of 280 acres of freely accessible woodland and open countryside. It is a paradise for dog walkers, horse riders and cyclists and also has natural sandpits for children to enjoy. We will be offering woodland rides from this location in 2026 as we need to do some fencing work first.

12. Glamping and Camping near Bath

100%

(3)

99km from Portsmouth · 15 units · Tents, Glamping

Piccadilly Caravan and Camping Park is nestled in the countryside, just a ten minute walk from the historic National Trust village of Lacock. The site offers beautifully maintained grounds and welcomes tents and tourers with both non electric and electric grass and hardstanding pitches, along with a bell tent for glamping. Enjoy a taste of rural life, surrounded by country pubs, independent shops, walking routes and only five minutes from Lacock Abbey!

13. Hook Farm Campsite

98%

(203)

77km from Portsmouth · 18 units · Tents

Blissfully back-to-basics camping in the heart of the West Sussex High Weald

14. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods

92%

(13)

89km from Portsmouth · 3 units · Glamping

The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.

15. Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

100%

(1)

88km from Portsmouth · 1 unit · Glamping

Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Our cosy off-grid cabin is set in an open meadow with sweeping countryside views and zero light pollution (perect for stargazing!) Fully off-grid, but with all the comforts: hot shower, king-size bed, full kitchen, and a wood-burning stove. - Panoramic views from bed - Dog-friendly with outdoor space to roam - 1km walk to the Six Bells pub (proper pub) - 3km from Gun Tap Room & Brewery - 30 mins to the Beachy Head to Seven Sisters coastal hike

16. The Slips

91%

(85)

56km from Portsmouth · 39 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A relaxed, back-to-basics campsite in the West Sussex countryside

17. Oxwick Farm

100%

(79)

124km from Portsmouth · 14 units · Tents, Glamping

Camping and glamping on an eco-friendly re-wilded farm on the southern side of the Cotswolds.

18. Jubilee Camping

96%

(98)

56km from Portsmouth · 51 units · Tents

Simple tent camping in the farming village of Damerham with fine views and easy access to the New Forest National Park

19. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%

(26)

30km from Portsmouth · 2 units · Glamping

Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way. Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.

20. Lepe Beach Campsite

89%

(149)

20km from Portsmouth · 20 units · Tents

Traditional tent camping with views of the Solent and Isle of Wight. Oh and did we mention it's only 150 yards from the beach!?

Top camping destinations around Portsmouth

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

e

erin

November 2025

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!

D

David

November 2025

3 nights at The Nut Plat Retreat

Such a beautiful spot, we took Ransoms for 3 nights. Everything we needed was ready for us, nice kitchen and a lovely hot tub. The host is very friendly and helpful. Don’t miss out on The Kentish Rifleman’s Pie and a Pint on Tuesdays and walks through Plaxtol, Igtham moat, and the green fields.

Sunrises don't get much better than those at Far and Away Camping

A

Adam

November 2025

8 m Class B

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Very nice location for stargazing lovely atmosphere exactly as described

George

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

This spot was perfect. Despite it being November and seeing a little more rain than we probably would have liked it didn’t take away the experience. Jayne was accommodating to our needs allowing us a fire pit as it was out of season. Would be back!

A

April

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sweet Hill Farm

Lovely short walk to the lighthouses and great flat ground for camping. The team were super friendly and helpful when are car battery died!

C

Chat

October 2025

2 nights at Willow Wood Off-Grid Cabin

Went as a solo traveller, the location was quiet enough to feel secluded enough, the cabin was clean warm with modern comforts, nice local pubs and excellent walks would recommend

A

Angela

October 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sweet Hill Farm

I have always loved Sweet Hill Farm. It’s a lovely relaxed campsite with sea views and amazing walks nearby. Also, being able to have a camp fire is fantastic. The showers are brilliant too. The only disappointment for me this year is that the compost loos have been replaced with horrible portaloos! Please bring back compost loos, they are so much nicer!

A

Alan

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Far and Away Camping

Well worth the drive. Really nice site. Definitely be going back

C

Charlie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend

G

Gillian

September 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Oxwick Farm

A very warm welcome from Nigel at the site, with explanation of the site. We loved staying in one of the pre-pitched bell tents, so cosy and warm with very comfy beds! Warm shower and clean composting loo. Helpful little things like the - rechargeable lanterns for use and bottle lanterns when it got dark. A plus too, lots of kitchen ware and crockery.

A

Alan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hook Farm Campsite

Really quiet, toilets and showers clean and tidy. Definitely be going back!

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!

M

Mark

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Sweet Hill Farm

This was my first time camping here and I will definitely return again. Whilst SatNav got me most of the way, the directions on Hipcamp made the last little bit of the journey much easier. I was welcomed warmly at the well-stocked little cafe, and given a map to show my how to get to the field I pitched in. The tracks on-site are full of large potholes - so definitely something to be mindful of, especially if you have extremely low-suspension on your car! However, take it slow and easy and all is well here. I had the most amazing view, from where I pitched up, over to Portland Bill lighthouse. Both sunset and sunrise were stunning. Facilities here are extremely basic - but it’s enough for those that simply need to get away from life for a while and sleep under the stars without all the creature comforts of home. Of course, there is a place for being able to have all the mod-cons available, but this is camping the way it should be done! I wasn’t here long enough to speak to any of the other campers, but everyone seemed relaxed and there was no loud music or anything played into the night, meaning I could drift to sleep easily enough at the end of the day. Thank you all.

P

Paul

September 2025

4 m Class B

With pets

2 nights at Chalky Downs

Our host was very friendly and helpful. Facilities were fine, clean and tidy. You will probably need some ramps if you want to be completely level but wasn’t a problem for us.

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Had such a great stay at The Barn!! Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!

M

Millie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great campsite, really peaceful, beautiful views and great amenities.

A view of the hut from one of the surrounding footpaths.

E

Emily

September 2025

1 night at Quaint Farm in a National Park

Matt met us on arrival and helped carry our bags to the The Shepherds Hut which is well fitted out , nicely decorated , lovely and clean, and well equipped. Nice hot shower and towel rail. Electric fire and also a log burner should you need it for the cold weather,The bed was so so comfy and the oat biscuits and eggs were delicious !! All windows had lovely views. Ivan & Sylvia S xxx

István Ferenc

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hook Farm Campsite

Perfect place. I loved the small woods. Highly recommend

Entrance to the farm land where the campsite is.

N

Nina

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Chalky Downs

Me and my partner stayed at Chalky downs for 2 nights for a little get away ✨. Sharen’s land is beautiful, everyone is so friendly and we even got to order a sausage bacon and egg bap with tea and coffee in the morning! ☀️. We went into Brighton town for a bit of shopping and to see the sea, only a 14 minute drive and we parked in the station car park 👏🏼. Would 100% recommend and will definitely be going back! Thank you so much. 🫶🏼

I

Issy

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Lovely, small campsite on working farm. Each pitch comes with a fire pit and bbq which is a nice touch. Great cafe on site and food trucks/ street food on certain days. We’ll be back!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Campsites near Portsmouth guide

Where to go

West Hampshire

The neighbouring port of Southampton is the gateway to the New Forest National Park. With its ancient forests, wildlife reserves, and wooded glades, it’s a paradise for campers. Choose from 5-star holiday parks with all the mod-cons, peaceful tent-only campsites surrounded by nature, or quirky glampsites hidden among the trees. All with access to the park’s network of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails.

English Channel Coast

South coast beach resorts Brighton and Worthing are within day-trip distance of Portsmouth, but there are beach breaks right on the city’s doorstep too. Neighbouring Hayling Island is a family favourite windsurfing hotspot, with blue flag beaches and sandy shores. Bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts can also explore the Chichester Harbour AONB—take a boat cruise or bike tour for the best views.

South Downs

With more than 600 square miles of open countryside, the South Downs AONB provides plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds. Hike through rolling hills and river valleys along the South Downs Way, camp out at secluded backcountry campsites, and enjoy stargazing around a campfire. Don’t miss the twisted yew forest at Kingley Vale and the soaring white sea cliffs at the Seven Sisters.

Isle of Wight

Ferries from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight take less than 30 minutes, and England’s largest island has historic towns, beaches, and countryside all in easy reach. Explore nearly 500 miles of hiking and cycling trails, try windsurfing or parasailing along blue flag beaches, or visit the medieval Carisbrooke Castle. Camping on the island is just as fun—camp by the beachside, spend a night in a houseboat or vintage caravan, or time your visit for the annual Isle of Wight music festival.

When to go

Portsmouth is a year-round destination, whether attending a summer festival or browsing the Christmas markets in winter. July and August are busiest, with a steady flow of travellers arriving at the port, and it’s best to book ahead if visiting at this time. Each season has its highlight. Go hiking and wildlife-watching in the South Downs in spring, admire the fall foliage in the New Forest, or head to the beach in summer.

Know before you go

Portsmouth has several camping and outdoors stores where you can pick up supplies for your camping trip.
Portsmouth has public transport links to many of the surrounding towns and attractions, but it is handy to have your own transport, especially if staying at rural campsites.
Most campsites require advance booking, and many ask for the full payment upfront. Be sure to check opening dates, as some campsites close in the winter months.
Wild camping is illegal throughout Hampshire.