Discover the best forest campsites near Ilfracombe, Devon with swimming

This quaint harbour town on the North Devon coast is a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its dramatic coastline, remote surrounds, and excellent location within reach of some of the best surf in the UK and Exmoor National Park. Try surfing, get up close with England’s famous moorland ponies, or soak up the sights deep in the Devonshire countryside, with varied accommodation options suited to all manner of Hipcampers. From tent pitches beside beaches to luxury pods in national parks, here are our top picks for your Ilfracombe adventure.

Things to do in Ilfracombe

You might be the type of camper who is happy to kick back on the campsite and make the most of campsite life while it lasts: soaking up the sun (fingers crossed), cooking on the campfire or barbecue, letting the kids run wild and enjoying the idyllic scenery of North Devon’s coast and countryside. But there’s also plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe and the surroundings during a holiday in the area. In the town of Ilfracombe itself you can watch the boats coming in and out of the harbour under the watchful eye of Verity, an enormous and controversial sculpture of a pregnant woman by Damian Hirst. Stay on dry land to explore harbour heritage on the Fish Trail, hop aboard a boat for a trip to see the wildlife at Lundy Island or find out about underwater life at the Ilfracombe Aquarium.

The Ilfracombe Museum reveals the history of the town and has an eclectic mix of curiosities from around the world too and no visit to Ilfracombe would be complete without visiting Tunnels Beaches and the Victorian tidal pool. For surfing, sandcastles and family swimming in shallow waters, head for Woolacombe Sands, Saunton Beach or Croyde—all under 10 miles away. Family-friendly attractions in the near area include Watermouth Castle, the Big Sheep Farm Park and Coombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park.

Where to go

Around Ilfracombe and the North Devon Coast

There’s no need to travel far outside of Ilfracombe in search of camping options. In fact, luxury retreats, holiday parks, glamping huts, and no-frills campsites can be found all along this stretch, plus farm sites a little way inland. Along the coast, surfing spots such as Croyde Bay boast several beach-accessible sites.

Exmoor National Park

Just east of Ilfracombe, this vast open moorland attracts wildlife lovers with its famous ponies and red deer. A haven for hikers, horse riders, and mountain bikers, as well as sea and river canoeists, there are plenty of options for overnight stays, including farmland camps, luxury yurts, and caravan parks.

Dartmoor National Park

About 45 miles (70 kilometres) south of Ilfracombe, this iconic landscape is home to its own resident ponies, plus unique boglands and tors. Climbing is particularly popular here, as is walking and wild camping—though rules are very strict, so private campsites and caravan parks can be a safer bet.

Blackdown Hills and the East Devon AONBs

Under two hours’ drive southeast of Ilfracombe, these adjoining AONBs provide a glimpse of England’s rural heritage. Woodlands, upland plateaus, ridges, and valleys provide all sorts of outdoor opportunity, while the East Devon Way delivers ramblers directly to the Dorset-Devon coast. Traditional farm camps and trendy glampsites abound in the area.

When to go

Summer is particularly popular on the Devon coast, but the region is generally less busy than its sister-seaside resorts. If you’re hoping to catch a wave or two, early autumn’s your best bet.

Know before you go

Ilfracombe isn’t the most easily accessed from London, requiring two trains and a bus, changing at Exeter St Davids.
If you plan to explore North Devon’s more secluded spots, it’s worth bringing or hiring your own vehicle.
Camping supplies can be picked up in nearby Barnstaple.
Most campsites prefer advanced booking, though some allow walk-ins in a pinch.