Widemouth Bay is a natural camping search area because it gives visitors quick access to the beach, surf, coast path and Bude. If you are looking for campsites near Widemouth Bay, the best choice depends less on one “perfect” site and more on the kind of trip you want.
This guide was last checked in June 2026. Campsite opening dates, pitch types, prices and dog rules change often, so confirm directly with the site before booking.
Quick answer: how to choose a campsite near Widemouth Bay
Choose a coastal campsite if beach access matters most, a family holiday park if facilities matter most, or a quieter rural site if you want more space. The former Budemeadows site is covered here as archive history, not as a current booking option.
| Camping style | Best for | Check before booking |
|---|---|---|
| Coastal campsite | Surf, beach walks, Widemouth access | Wind exposure and peak-season demand |
| Family holiday park | Children, facilities, rainy-day backup | Noise, rules and pool/play access |
| Touring pitch | Caravans and motorhomes | Hook-up, hardstanding, waste/water |
| Rural campsite | Quiet stays and value | Driving distance to beaches |
Start with your camping style
Before comparing individual sites, decide what kind of base you actually need:
- A simple tent pitch close to the coast
- A family holiday park with facilities
- A touring pitch for a caravan or motorhome
- A quieter rural site outside Bude
- A dog-friendly campsite
- A glamping option with more comfort
The Bude area has a mix of seaside, rural, formal and informal campsites, so narrowing the type first saves time.
Beach access versus quiet space
The closer you stay to Widemouth Bay, the easier it is to build days around surf, beach walks and sunset views. That convenience is valuable, especially if you are travelling with children or surf gear.
The trade-off is that coastal sites can be busier in school holidays and more exposed to wind. A slightly inland campsite may feel calmer, offer more space, or be better value, while still keeping Bude and Widemouth within easy driving distance.
Check touring and motorhome details carefully
If you are travelling with a caravan or motorhome, do not assume every campsite or car park works the same way. Check:
- Pitch size
- Electric hook-up availability
- Hardstanding versus grass
- Arrival and departure times
- Waste and water facilities
- Dog rules
- Whether awnings are allowed
Also check local parking restrictions if you plan to stop at beach car parks during the day. Cornwall Council car parks and viewing points can have vehicle restrictions, and overnight parking is not the same as campsite parking.
Family facilities matter
For families, the most useful campsite is not always the closest one to the beach. Toilets, showers, laundry, a small shop, play space and wet-weather options can make a bigger difference over a week than shaving a few minutes off the drive.
If you are planning beach days at Widemouth Bay, Summerleaze and Crooklets, look at how easy it is to get in and out by car during peak times.
Booking tips
- Book early for school holidays and bank holidays.
- Check cancellation rules before committing.
- Confirm dog policies directly with the campsite.
- Ask about pitch slope and exposure if you are tent camping.
- Check whether fires or barbecues are allowed.
- Use recent reviews to spot noise, access or facility issues.
What about the former Budemeadows site?
Budemeadows Touring Park is part of this site’s historical archive content. The current Budemeadows website is not taking campsite bookings for the former touring park. If you are researching the old site, start with the archive history page, then compare currently operating campsites around Bude and Widemouth Bay.
Related guides
- Camping near Widemouth Bay and Bude: https://budemeadows.com/camping-near-widemouth-bay-bude/
- Former Budemeadows Touring Park history: https://budemeadows.com/budemeadows-touring-park-history/
- Widemouth Bay parking: https://budemeadows.com/widemouth-bay-parking/
Sources checked
- Visit Bude campsite information: https://www.visitbude.info/stay/campsite/
- Hipcamp campsites near Widemouth Bay: https://www.hipcamp.com/en-GB/d/united-kingdom/england/south-west-england/cornwall/widemouth-bay/camping/all
- Cornwall Council car parks in Bude: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/transport-parking-and-streets/parking/cornwall-council-car-parks/council-car-parks-in-bude/
Frequently asked questions
Are there campsites near Widemouth Bay?
Yes. The Bude and Widemouth area has coastal, rural, touring and family campsite options.
Was Budemeadows still taking campsite bookings?
No. Budemeadows is covered here as historical archive content, not as a current booking site.
What should campers check before booking?
Check pitch type, dog rules, electric hook-up, cancellation terms, facilities and distance to the beach.