Camping on Brownsea Island

Notes for guests

Adventure Camping: Tent pitches and pre-pitched Tree Tents are available. Adventure camping is aimed at primarily friend groups, families and individuals.

Bell tents: We have a selection of 4 and 5 metre Bell Tents on Brownsea Island, suitable for 2-4 people. These are perfect for families and couples and for those who want the real outdoors, off-grid experience but don't fancy pitching their own tent.

Group Camping: Group camping is defined by groups of 15- 60 persons camping at one time for Scouts and Guides association groups.

Two night stays: Available on a first come, first served basis, subject to availability. Open Friday - Monday outside of school holidays and daily during school holidays.

Getting to and from the island: You can arrive either via passenger ferry or directly to the campsite in your own boat, canoe, kayak or paddleboard. Please see our campsite rules page for more information.

Travel: We recommend coming by train, Poole Train station is a 20 minute walk from the Quay, with regular direct trains from London Waterloo.

There is no vehicle access available to Brownsea Island.

Overnight parking is available in nearby car parks on Poole Quay.

On the Island: You will need to make your own way to the campsite: a 20–25 minute walk on a rough track. Please travel light as you will need to carry your own belongings to the campsite. You will not need to bring cookers or cooking equipment with you, as these will all be provided. Suitcases and wheeled cases or bags are not suitable.

Cooking: It is prohibited to carry camp cookers and fuel on our boats so please do not bring these with you for your stay. Shared field kitchens are located around the campsite which are equipped with cooking facilities. We will provide you with a box of cooking equipment, but you will need to bring items for personal use such as cutlery and crockery.

Hazards: As arrival to the island is via boat, you must be able to independently transfer from the boat onto the jetty with your baggage. The campsite is close to the sea and cliffs.

Baggage Policy: You will be responsible for carrying your baggage on and off the ferries and to and from the campsite which is around a 20–25 minute walk. We therefore advise packing as light as possible and you should be able to carry your personal baggage yourself without having to make additional trips.  Backpacks are recommended.

Food and drink: We have a campsite shop where you can buy basic food and drink items but anything fancy you should bring with you. There is a cafe which is open during day visiting hours only but no other food shops on the island.

Drinking water is provided from standpipes at the campsite and may be used for drinking and cooking.