Camp Bedrock

There are a few things that might surprise you about back-to-basics campsite, Camp Bedrock. There’s the fact that it’s the closest campsite to the Devon city of Plymouth even though it’s in Cornwall. There’s the proximity of the Tamara Way which literally passes some of the pitches. And lastly, there’s the graffiti-strewn, disused buildings that are dotted around the site. It may not sound like the most picturesque of places but, in fact, this campsite occupies a beautiful spot on the Rame Peninsula overlooking the calm waters of the Hamoaze Estuary. And those buildings are an ever-evolving canvas for street art making this rather a cool and quirky place to stay.

Before Camp Bedrock, the buildings, a never-used Second World War naval refuelling station, were derelict. Instead of fighting against the paintwork on their walls, the campsite’s owners embraced it and invited artists to add to it. This laid-back and practical approach is also what you’ll need to camp here. The site offers almost-wild camping with the simplest of facilities. You pitch where you please within three grassy acres as there are no set pitches here. There’s also no shower; just a compost loo and a tap. The best spots on site are the ones that look across the water and the passing sailing boats. But, be aware, walkers will also pass you by. For more privacy and shelter, slip back between buildings and trees. There’s no one dictating where you go – that’s one of the joys of this place. Another is that campfires are allowed as long as off-ground fire pits are used and that your dog is also welcome.

The Tamara Way provides some great walks but is also the best way to reach some of the local points of interest. The campsite is actually part of the Edgcumbe Estate close to the well-known Mount Edgcumbe house, gardens and 865-acre country park. It’s a five-minute walk to its entrance and slightly less to the foot ferry at Cremyll. From there it’s a mere seven minutes across the water to Plymouth where you can compare the modern eateries of Royal William Yard with the historic old buildings of The Barbican or, perhaps, visit the National Marine Aquarium. And if the city doesn’t tempt you, turn your back to it and head for the other side of the Rame Peninsula and Whitsand Bay. There, you’ll find something altogether less surprising for Cornwall: sea, sand and surf.