Campsites in Devon

Devon is one of the UK’s most popular camping and caravanning destinations, and it is no wonder why. The county is home to sandy beaches, charming coastal villages and scenic landscapes. Dartmoor and Exmoor National Parks also offer amazing walking routes and free-roaming wildlife.

From family attractions to Devonshire cream teas and the historic city of Exeter, there is plenty to enjoy while camping in Devon.

Our favourite things to do in Devon

Devon is full of amazing destinations and attractions, but if you’re not sure where to start, then we have put together a list of some of our favourites:

• Explore Dartmoor National Park
• Visit Exeter Cathedral
• Surf at Croyde Bay or Woolacombe Beach
• Wander the streets of Totnes
• Ride the Dartmouth Steam Railway
• Go fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast
• Spend the day at Paignton Zoo
• Walk along the South West Coast Path
• Relax in the English Riviera – enjoy Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham
• Discover Lundy Island
• Visit Clovelly village
• Enjoy a cream tea in a café – just remember, jam first in Devon!
• Take a boat trip from Dartmouth
• Explore Lydford Gorge

Beautiful coastline and incredible beaches

Devon is home to two contrasting coastlines. The north coast, facing the Atlantic, is wild and rugged, famous for its long sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and great surfing waves. Here you’ll find Woolacombe, often named one of the best beaches in the UK, with its three miles of golden sand and excellent waves for surfing. 

Just along the coast, Croyde Bay is a popular spot for both beginners and experienced surfers, while Saunton Sands offers more gentle waters and sand dunes, ideal for those holidaying as a family.

Devon’s south coast is more sheltered and gentler, often referred to as the English Riviera. Towns like Torquay, Paignton and Brixham provide a classic seaside stay, with safe, sandy beaches, palm trees and a buzzing harbour. Families will love the calm waters for swimming. 

Further west, Blackpool Sands, with its turquoise water and tree-lined backdrop, looks like it could be straight from the South of France or Italy. Bantham Beach offers stunning views of Burgh Island and is dog friendly from October to the start of May.

Whether you’re looking for watersports, peaceful coves, or somewhere to catch a tan, Devon offers an amazing array of beaches with a spot for everyone!

Charming towns and villages

Devon is full of picture-perfect towns and villages. Along the south coast, Dartmouth is home to a historic harbour, colourful cottages and narrow streets filled with independent shops and galleries. It's also a great place to pick up a boat trip along the River Dart.

Further west, the waterside village of Salcombe offers a clear blue estuary, boutique shops, and sandy coves. In the heart of Devon, Totnes is a quirky market town known for its art scene. 

Over on the north coast, Clovelly is a privately-owned fishing village, once belonging to the Queen of England. It clings to a steep hillside, with cobbled streets and whitewashed cottages leading down to a small harbour. 

Other favourites include Appledore, known for its pretty waterfront and artistic flair, and Lynmouth and Lynton, twin villages linked by a cliff railway.

Top scenery

Devon is lucky to have not one, but two National Parks - Dartmoor and Exmoor. Each offers unforgettable landscapes and plenty of trails to explore. Whether you’re into walking, cycling, horse riding, climbing, canoeing or fishing, there’s something for everyone!

Dartmoor is famous for its wild, open moorlands. The park is full of dramatic scenery and ancient history. You’ll find prehistoric stone circles scattered across the land. For a beautiful woodland walk, head to Lydford Gorge (National Trust), where the White Lady Waterfall and Devil’s Cauldron create a scenic backdrop.

Exmoor, to the north, offers equally breathtaking views. The mix of rolling hills, deep valleys and rugged coastline makes it a perfect place for walks and scenic drives. Don’t miss the Valley of Rocks, a dramatic landscape with wild goats and great sea views.

The South West Coast Path runs along both of Devon’s shorelines and is ideal for day hikes, with many easier sections for gentle strolls. For cyclists, the Coast to Coast route, which includes the popular Tarka Trail, is a brilliant way to see more of the county on two wheels.

Great for foodies

No trip to Devon is complete without tasting some of the county’s most famous treats. Start with a proper Devonshire cream tea – and remember, it’s cream first, then jam! You’ll also find freshly baked pasties that locals proudly claim were invented here (not in Cornwall!), and no visit would be right without a pint of local scrumpy cider.

But Devon's food scene goes well beyond pasties and cream. The county is packed with brilliant local producers, from chilli farms and microbreweries to coffee roasters and blueberry farms. 

Sandridge Barton Wine, set in the beautiful South Hams, is a must-visit for wine and cheese lovers. Take a tour through the vines and learn how they craft their award-winning wines and artisan cheeses. Another highlight is the Plymouth Gin Distillery, where you can dive into the history and taste of one of the amazing gins.

With miles of stunning coastline, it’s no surprise that the seafood in Devon is top-notch. Look out for fresh catches in coastal towns and harbours – especially Salcombe crab, a local favourite. If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with one of the many food festivals held throughout the year. Salcombe Crabfest and Clovelly’s Herring Festival are both great fun and full of flavour.