Doone Valley Badgworthy Water
A tranquil, no-frills campsite nestled in the ancient Doone Valley, offering riverside pitches and access to stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunshine and birdsong
Doone Valley Badgworthy Water
Best Time
Sunshine and birdsong
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, no-frills campsite nestled in the ancient Doone Valley, offering riverside pitches and access to stunning natural beauty.
"Fabulous campsite tucked away in the valley in blissful surroundings."
Pack for Rustic Charm
Facilities are basic but clean. Bring all your essentials for a comfortable, no-frills stay. :sleeping_accommodation:
Enjoy the Tearoom Treats
The adjacent tearoom offers delicious scones and refreshments – perfect for a break. :tea:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Badgworthy Water River
Throughout the valley
A musical thread through ancient woods, this river is the heart of the valley's charm.
Doone Valley Woods
Slopes of the valley
Explore ancient, hanging oak woods alive with birdsong and a sense of timeless magic.
Riverside Camping
Campsite
Pitch your tent by the water for a peaceful, no-frills escape in a stunning natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Tranquility
Plan for Basic Comforts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for Rustic Charm
Facilities are basic but clean. Bring all your essentials for a comfortable, no-frills stay. :sleeping_accommodation:
Enjoy the Tearoom Treats
The adjacent tearoom offers delicious scones and refreshments – perfect for a break. :tea:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a peaceful spot. Ideal for relaxation and disconnecting from the hustle. :zzz:
Explore the Valley Walks
Lush walks abound! Discover hidden gems along the river and through ancient woods. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for Rustic Charm
Facilities are basic but clean. Bring all your essentials for a comfortable, no-frills stay. :sleeping_accommodation:
Enjoy the Tearoom Treats
The adjacent tearoom offers delicious scones and refreshments – perfect for a break. :tea:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a peaceful spot. Ideal for relaxation and disconnecting from the hustle. :zzz:
Explore the Valley Walks
Lush walks abound! Discover hidden gems along the river and through ancient woods. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the blissful, tranquil surroundings and the peaceful, no-frills camping experience. The clean, basic facilities and riverside pitches are highlights for those seeking relaxation. However, some find the campsite expensive for its limited amenities, particularly the lack of electricity.
"Fabulous campsite tucked away in the valley in blissful surroundings. Good facilities of shower/ toilet blocks and washing up station, all in good order. Perfect site for quiet, no frills, ideal rest and relaxation. Can't fault this place"
Lou B
"A beautiful campsite with riverside pitches.
Good, clean facilities and an adjacent tearoom (not part of the site).
A fantastic location to relax and enjoy time with loved ones, well priced and good value for money👍🇬🇧"
David Rudlin
"Expensive £60 for 2 nights with dogs. No electric. Peaceful and quiet. Had 2 pizzas from the cafe (not part of campsite) 2 pints and two drinks to take back to camper £50. Not going again"
Sarah Hampton-rumbold
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access is often via scenic, winding country roads. Many visitors arrive by car, with the valley being a destination for hikers and campers. It's recommended to use GPS for navigation, as it's a bit off the beaten path.
Public transport options can be limited in this rural area. It's best to check local bus routes or consider a taxi service if you're not driving.
Walking is the primary way to explore the valley itself. Well-marked trails lead through the woods and along the river.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the valley itself is generally free, allowing access to the natural landscape. If you plan to camp, there will be site fees.
As a natural valley, it's accessible at all times. However, facilities like the tearoom will have specific operating hours.
Yes, there is a fee for camping. Reviews suggest prices can vary, with some finding it expensive for a basic site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The campsite offers basic but clean facilities, including shower and toilet blocks, and a washing-up station. There is no electricity on site.
While the water is shallow in parts, it's a natural river. Swimming is at your own risk and depends on water levels and safety.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome, but be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Some campsite fees may apply for pets.
The main activities are hiking, nature walks, camping, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It's a great spot for photography and relaxation. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's an adjacent tearoom, The Buttery Café, run by the National Trust, offering scones and other refreshments.
Absolutely! Since it's a natural area and campsite, bringing your own food and picnic supplies is highly recommended.
Dining options are limited directly within the valley. You'll likely need to travel to nearby villages or towns for a wider selection of restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks of Badgworthy Water, the ancient oak woods, and the valley landscapes offer stunning photographic opportunities. Look for light filtering through the trees.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the National Trust regarding any restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The ancient woods provide a sense of adventure and a place for imaginative play, while the open spaces are great for running around. The campsite's basic facilities mean you'll need to be prepared, but the peaceful atmosphere is ideal for a family getaway focused on outdoor fun. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to the tearoom. The lack of electricity on the campsite means you'll need to rely on battery-powered devices or embrace a digital detox. It's a fantastic spot for creating lasting memories through simple, nature-based activities.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 You can enjoy anything from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes, immersing yourself in the stunning Exmoor landscape. The 'off the beaten track' nature of the valley means you can often find solitude and a true connection with the wild. Bring sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for varied terrain. The opportunity to discover hidden waterfalls, ancient trees, and diverse wildlife makes every step a rewarding experience. The valley's natural beauty is its main attraction, offering a refreshing escape for any outdoor enthusiast.
🧘♀️ Budget Travelers
Focus on the free activities like hiking and exploring the river. The tearoom is a good option for a treat, but packing your own provisions will save money. The value here lies in the tranquility and natural immersion, which are priceless.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Badgworthy Water
The river carves its way through the valley, creating picturesque scenes with its clear waters and the surrounding lush greenery. It also serves as a natural boundary, historically separating Devon and Somerset. For campers, the proximity to the river is a major draw, with riverside pitches offering a serene environment. The shallow sections can be inviting for a paddle on a warm day, though caution is always advised. The constant, soothing sound of the water contributes significantly to the valley's reputation as a place of peace and relaxation.
Photographers will find endless inspiration along Badgworthy Water, from close-ups of its babbling flow to wider shots capturing its journey through the valley. The interplay of light and water, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates truly magical scenes.
Exploring the Ancient Doone Valley Woods
The canopy is alive with the constant, cheerful cheeping of numerous birds, creating a vibrant natural symphony that enhances the immersive experience of walking through these ancient groves. These woods offer a stark contrast to the open valley floor, providing shade and a sense of enclosure. They are perfect for quiet contemplation and nature observation. The air within the woods is often described as fresh and invigorating, filled with the scent of damp earth and ancient trees.
For hikers and nature lovers, these ancient woods are a highlight. They provide a cooler environment during warmer months and a sense of mystery and wonder year-round. The trails winding through them are often less trodden, offering a more secluded experience for those seeking to escape the crowds.
Camping in Doone Valley: A No-Frills Escape
However, it's important to note that the campsite is basic and does not offer electric hook-ups. This simplicity is part of its charm for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience, but it means campers need to be self-sufficient. Some reviews mention the cost as being on the higher side for a basic site, especially when factoring in additional expenses like dog fees.
Despite the basic nature, the overwhelming sentiment is positive for those who appreciate quiet, natural surroundings and a chance to disconnect. It's a place where the focus is on enjoying the blissful environment rather than on luxury amenities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit