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National Trust, Brownsea Island, Poole, Dorset, UK, BH13 7EE

Brownsea Island Campsite

Camping at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
Camping at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset | © National Trust/Robin Kitchin
Tree tents at Brownsea Campsite, Poole
The bell tent at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset

Camping on Brownsea Island

An island campsite that feels a world away from the nearby mainland, surrounded by thriving habitats for rare species, trails and views of the Purbeck Hills.

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Tree tents at Brownsea Campsite, Poole
The bell tent at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
Camping at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
View out across Purbeck from Brownsea Island, Dorset
A camp kitchen at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
An area of Brownsea Island, Poole
An areal view of Brownsea Island, Poole

© National Trust

An island campsite that feels a world away from the nearby mainland, surrounded by thriving habitats for rare species, trails and views of the Purbeck Hills.

At a glance

Type of accommodation
Tents, Bell tents, Tree tents
Number of places / pitches
40
Seasons
29 Mar 2024 - 29 Sep 2024
Minimum stay
2 nights
Dogs welcome per pitch
0

About Camping on Brownsea Island

This unique campsite is nestled on the south side of Brownsea Island overlooking the rolling Purbeck hills and is easily accessed by using a variety of pathways across the island. The walk from the public ferry jetty pier to the campsite is approximately 20 minutes, and will take you through some of the island's beautiful scenery. You will need to be physically able however your efforts will be rewarded by breath-taking views and a possible red squirrel sighting. At the campsite  you will find showers, toilets, drinking water, cooking facilities and a basic campsite shop. We even give you cooking equipment to help you lighten your packing list!

Brownsea is a wildlife haven with its lagoon, lakes, reedbeds and beaches offering sanctuary to a vast number of birds while the woodland is home to red squirrels and Sika deer. Staying on the island offers the chance to enjoy this special place out-of-hours, either side of the day's public boats arriving and departing with our day visitors. There's nothing quite like experiencing the island after the last boats leave for the day.

There are three types of camping available. Adventure camping is for people who love nature and the great outdoors. Bell tents are for those who enjoy it with a touch of comfort whilst still being immersed in the beautiful surrounding of the campsite. Group camping is for Scout and Guide groups which is aimed at groups of 15-60 persons. 

Features and facilities

  • Play area, available
  • Toilets, available
  • Showers, available
  • Washing-up area, available

Location

More information

Wild Escapes: Brownsea Island Campsite is featured in our new travel book, Wild Escapes, available to buy online or in National Trust shops. From rugged coastline to secluded woodland, it's filled with inspiration from far-reaching corners of the UK for your next adventure.

Types of Accommodation

The bell tent at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
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Bell tents 

Experience a touch of comfort on Brownsea Island while still being immersed in the beautiful landscape, sheltered woodlands, sea views and rare wildlife.

Camping at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
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Adventure camping 

Pitch up your own tent or try one of our tree tents. Experience the adventure of camping on Brownsea Island, whether you are on your own, with some friends, or want to bring the whole family.

Brownsea Island Activities Centre
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Group camping 

Group camping is open to all Scout and Guide groups.

Additional Information

A gap through leafy trees reveals a bell tent with the sea in the background

Discover more with the National Trust Podcast 

Camp under the trees at Brownsea Island, Dorset and uncover the history of the Scouts movement in 'Escape to adventure island'. You can also find more episodes from series seven, filled with nature and history.

A peacock at Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset
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Campsite FAQs 

Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about Brownsea Island Campsite.

Trees lining Deer Park road on Brownsea Island
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Campsite Rules 

To ensure everyone who stays at Brownsea Island Campsite has a great holiday, we have a few simple site rules.