Best Campsites in Dorset for Summer 2026

Sea views, farm stays and cooler days by the coast

Summer 2026 is shaping up to be a warm one, with the Met Office's latest outlook putting hot conditions as more likely than usual through July and August, and an increased chance of heatwaves along the way. If the mercury does climb, there's nowhere better to cool off than the Dorset coast, with its breezy clifftop walks, sheltered coves and easy access to the sea for a dip whenever the fancy takes you. All the more reason to pitch up under canvas. Dorset has some brilliant campsites to choose from; some on working farms, others right by the coast, or within walking distance of a cracking pub. We've put together a list to help you decide. Wherever you pitch up, don't forget the marshmallows, perfect for toasting over the BBQ or melting into your hot chocolate as you gaze up at the stars. Bliss!

Rosewall Camping

Perfect for getting away from it all, this lovely family-run site in Osmington offers beautiful sea views. It is situated just a stone’s throw from the South West Coast Path and, importantly, a great pub is easily reached on foot. 

Bagwell Farm

Part of a working farm, Bagwell is a charming family-run campsite with space for tourers too. Gorgeous walks begin right from within the site, especially along the Fleet, part of the Jurassic Coast. The well-stocked information room lists local events, so you won’t miss out on what’s happening nearby.

Higher Moor Farm

An award-winning, quiet, family-run campsite in the village of Nottington, just outside Weymouth. Set on eight acres of level Dorset countryside, it's been farmed by the same family for over 40 years and offers generous tent, caravan and motorhome pitches, plus boutique glamping pods and Hill Top Lodges for those after a bit more comfort. On-site extras include a farm shop, an indoor games barn, a play area and, during high season, a Vintage Marquee Bar and visiting food vans. It's a short drive to Weymouth's golden sands and the wider Jurassic Coast.

Buckland Farm

The peaceful sister site to Higher Moor Farm, tucked away in the nearby village of Buckland Ripers. Buckland is smaller and simpler than its sister campsite, catering for tents with cars, small campervans and day vans on generous fields with lovely rolling countryside views. There's a horsebox shop for essentials and local produce, a dog-walking field, and a real sense of rustic, low-key charm, ideal if you want your camping a little quieter. They also have beautiful bell tents for those who enjoy camping without the hassle.

Coppet Hill

Just three miles from the iconic Jurassic Coast, near to Bridport, this award-winning campsite is set on a 600-acre family farm surrounded by some of Dorset’s most stunning hills. It's a peaceful haven for walkers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

South Lytchett Manor

Only three miles from Poole, South Lytchett Manor, previously crowned ‘Best Campsite in Britain’ is a site to really enjoy! The immaculate facilities and friendly team help ensure you get the most from your camping trip. Bringing children? There’s plenty of fun with an outdoor play park, a dedicated ball area for football fans, plus table tennis and even badminton. It’s easy to make new friends at this welcoming, family-friendly site.

Woodyhyde

We first visited Woodyhyde nine years ago when our son was just two years old. Why we went? It’s in the heart of the Purbecks, close to Corfe Castle and Swanage, with walking routes aplenty. And, importantly for a certain trainspotter in the family, it’s right next to the Swanage Steam Railway! Wave at the steam trains as they chug past, choo choo! The site offers excellent facilities and is within walking distance of Harman's Cross station, where you can hop on the train to Swanage for traditional seaside fun.

Wareham Forest Tourist Park

There are many great campsites in Wareham Forest, but Wareham Forest Tourist Park is  one of the few in Dorset with its own outdoor swimming pool. A regular winner of the Dorset Tourism Awards ‘Campsite of the Year’, it sets high standards! Woodland (non-electric) pitches let you camp among the trees, or you can opt for the open fields. There’s nothing like the great outdoors!

Newlands Holidays
Just a short stroll from Charmouth beach, one of the best fossil-hunting spots in Dorset, Newlands Holidays offer three fields to choose from when pitching your tent: whether you’re after sea views, proximity to the play area, or closeness to the leisure complex. With both indoor and outdoor pools and a splash zone, families are guaranteed entertainment whatever the weather.

Back of Beyond
Set close to the New Forest and not far from Bournemouth's beautiful beaches, is Back of Beyond Touring Park. It's exclusively for adults and perfect for those looking to truly get away from it all. Set in a natural environment with dark skies, you can lie back and enjoy stargazing without the light pollution we’re so used to. Choose from various camping options - from wild camping in Emma’s Glade (a Site of Special Scientific Interest) to all-weather astro turf pitches. Explore 18 acres of woodland and private lakes. Conservation is a top priority here, creating a haven for all kinds of wildlife. This peaceful site prides itself on tranquillity; the loudest noise you’ll hear is the dawn chorus.