Holmsley Campsite: The Ultimate Family Camping Destination

Exploring the New Forest in a campervan or motorhome is an ideal adventure, whether you’re planning an extended stay or a quick weekend getaway. The freedom to explore at your own pace lets you fully enjoy the forest’s diverse landscapes, hidden trails and picturesque villages. For a short weekend escape, packing efficiently is key, so be sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to Packing Quickly for a Weekend Campervan Trip for practical tips to streamline your packing . The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the forest bursts into life with wildflowers, or transforms with vibrant autumn colours. If you plan to visit during the autumn months, you may want to check out the blog post 3 Essential Tips for Autumn Camping and Vanlife Preparation for helpful advice on making the most of the season in your campervan, or motorhome. With beautiful landscapes, open spaces, wildlife walks and nature on your doorstep, the New Forest is perfect for vanlife. The area is well-equipped with designated parking areas for scenic stops, picnic spots and walking or cycling routes, so there’s always something to see or do nearby. Whether you’re wandering through quaint villages, cycling along shaded trails, or enjoying a sunrise by the coast, the New Forest is truly a gem.

Wild camping is strictly forbidden in the New Forest, but there are numerous excellent campsites. Camping New Forest* run some of the best. With the charm of the New Forest surrounding you, Holmsley Campsite makes for an unforgettable and authentic camping experience. It offers the perfect combination of convenience and immersion in nature, with good facilities, a variety of pitch types and an unbeatable location for families. 

 

Occupying part of the former Holmsley Airfield from WWII, this campsite offers a blend of heritage and natural beauty, making it a special base for camping holidays and outdoor adventures. Surrounded by ancient trees and adjacent to sweeping heathlands, Holmsley provides a serene escape where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the New Forest’s famous grazing ponies and diverse wildlife. Located just a short drive from the coastline, Holmsley is also perfectly positioned for day trips to the sandy beaches of Christchurch and Bournemouth.

Is Holmsley Campsite suitable for campervans?

Holmsley offers a range of pitch types to suit different setups and preferences. They have spacious grass pitches, both with and without electric hook-ups, allowing tent campers, campervans and motorhomes a comfortable place to set up. Hardstanding pitches with electric hook-ups are also available, providing a sturdy, flat surface for motorhomes and larger vehicles. The site layout is well-spaced, with some pitches tucked among trees for shade and privacy, while others are in open, grassy areas where you can enjoy the sunshine and scenic views. The natural landscape and wildlife (like the occasional New Forest pony!) add to the charm of the campsite. We preferred the non-electric pitches tucked away among the trees in the serene area of Plain Heath.

Is Holmsley Campsite suitable for families?

Holmsley offers well-maintained facilities that cater to a variety of camping needs, making it especially family-friendly. The site features several clean and spacious toilet blocks with hot showers, along with a family shower room for those who need a bit more space. Children will love the play park, giving them a fun space to explore while parents relax nearby. An on-site shop is stocked with essential supplies. For families needing to wash clothes, there is a convenient laundry facility and separate designated washing-up areas, make meal clean-ups a breeze. Holmsley is also dog-friendly, with a self service dog wash area, so you can bring along your four-legged family members to share in your New Forest adventure!

In summary, Holmsley Campsite is a peaceful and well-equipped base for exploring the New Forest, offering easy access to scenic trails, ancient woodlands and nearby coastal spots. With family and dog-friendly amenities, it’s an ideal destination for a relaxing getaway close to nature. Please remember to follow the New Forest Code to help protect this unique environment and its wildlife - including the iconic wild ponies that may stroll by your pitch!

*Full disclosure: our stay at Holmsley Campsite was part of a partnership with Camping New Forest, but all thoughts and opinions are genuinely our own. We would still recommend this campsite, especially for families, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, well-kept facilities and unique location in the heart of the New Forest.