Group camping

How to book

The campsite is open for group camping from 1 April – 30 September. All camping visits need to be booked in advance. For further information including our campsite brochure, please talk to the Group Booking team 01202 492161 or email brownseagroupbooking@nationaltrust.org.uk.

The campsite

With its views over Poole Harbour and the Purbecks, the campsite is set around the very site that Lord Baden-Powell used for his experimental camp in 1907. Please note that due to conservation some pitches may out of service.

Equipment and facilities

The campsite is equipped with hot showers and a toilet block for campers, drinking water and a washing up area and a designated campfire area (subject to permission from the Duty Manager and dependent on fire risk on the day).

To make bringing your group as easy as possible, we have a range of equipment available to hire from tents to cooking equipment and dining shelters. For more information please see our campsite brochure.

Getting here

Brownsea Island Ferries (01929 462383) and Greenslades Pleasure Boats (01202 631828 / www.greensladepleasureboats.co.uk) run the boat service from Poole Quay and Brownsea Island Ferries run the boat service from Sandbanks. You will need to book your boat crossing with the ferry companies directly who will be able to advise you on prices and luggage allowance. Please be advised that additional charges will apply for oversize or additional luggage. This is usually restricted to one piece of hand luggage per person plus 3 food crates per 10 people. 

Arriving on Brownsea

Outdoor Centre wardens aim to meet all groups on the quay as they arrive, however in busy periods we may have several groups arriving at the same time.

Some groups like to take on the challenge of walking and bringing their own luggage to the site. Please let us know if you would like your group to do this – it is after all something that we encourage. If you do not wish to carry your own baggage then a cargo run to and from the accommodation is available for a charge.

When you arrive at the campsite, a Outdoor Centre Warden will gather the group for an induction to the site.

We aim to make Brownsea Island and our services accessible for all. Please discuss with us any exceptional needs which the group or group members may have. 

During your stay

We have lots of free trails and walks to do once you have arrived on the island. We also have a wide range of activities (led and self-led) that can be booked in advance for your group. Please see the Learning page for more information and to access our Learning Brochure.