My partner and I are hoping to find a campsite that will suit our needs - but think the chances are what we want isnt likely.
We have been holidaying together with our children for a few years and his caravan has been perfect for our needs while they were a bit younger. Some are now adults and although we reduce in numbers, the set up isnt working.
We now have just one younger one left who comfortably fits in the bunk still but the other 2 kids who will continue to come are both 6 foot men (both 16/17) and will likely upgrade the caravan next year to suit the 3 of us and work on the basis that the boys wont want to come as they hit 18.
Last year they managed in the awning but it really was managing and they dont want to share in a shared space - also 2 sleeping in there made it so full of condensation!
We cant afford 2 pitches as camping has got so much more expensive so what we really want is to find a site, in southwest England, by the coast if possible where we could have a largish tent with 2 bedeooms or 2 small tents as well as the caravan so that they could have their own space.
A bar on site or pub walking distance is a must as is some decent toilets and showers.
Entertainment and a pool would be a bonus but realise the compromise we may need is going somewhere without all the amenities).
If anyone knows anywhere that might fit the bill it would be great to hear your ideas or if you know of sites that we might be able to afford 2 pitches - maybe there are hidden gems!
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I can’t say anywhere specific, but it might depend as much on the owner / manager than the size of pitch. Have a look at Site Search, choose sites that have what you want & do a bit of phoning: my gut reaction is that 2 small tents (that the lads could also use backpacking, maybe: have a look at the backpacking section for ideas & some photos) might be more acceptable than one larger tent with 2 bedrooms (that the makers will say sleeps 4) and living space, which could trigger the 6m rule for fire safety.
I’m sure the right site will be out there for you.
I tend to think that such sites will be very few and far between, particularly in such a popular area as the south west of England and by the coast too. Most sites that I know would insist on separate pitches for each unit (tent/caravan/motorhome/etc). It's all about making money. Club Cs/Cl may be one option, but probably not in a popular area, and they will have nothing but toilets/showers by way of amenities, and maybe not even those. Sorry to sound so pessimistic, but in my experience it is all about maximising profits with most sites, which is why they have got so expensive.
On the odd occasion when friends have tagged along on my caravan trips, they've booked another pitch for their own tent as reluctant to intrude on 'my space' in the van as they put it. - that causes issues with camp site choice, many sites have entirely separate pitch areas for caravans and 'proper' tents, so adjacent pitches have been harder to find, which makes socialising and eating in the van awning, cooking in the van etc. a little less convenient as tent dwellers have a trek, sometimes some distance.
Some sites will accept a small/modest 'pup tent' used solely for sleeping on the same pitch and adjacent to the caravan. Even CAMC who are sticklers for rules certainly allow additional small sleeping 'pup tents' that do not compromise the pitch area, and allow them on CLs which have a total ban on tents in any other way. Beware, some sites charge for 'everything' in excess of the main unit and a 'pup tent' may only be at extra cost!
As a solution, how about one teen in the caravan awning, and a small 1/2 berth (backpacking style) tent for the other adjacent to the caravan - that gives both teens space, and meets with many site limitations.
Sites with entertainment, pools etc. are not my thing so avoided at all costs, but the UKCS site search has a tick box for on site/nearby pubs/bars. Most sites will advise in their advertising of on site and nearby facilities.
The other thing is, mental attitude! Many people seem to go camping with no compromise in mind from their home arrangements, me, I take the attitude that it's an alternative living arrangement, so expect and tolerate the differences, it's generally only for a few days, and if you embrace it rather than fight it, it adds to the overall experience, and indeed can be the source of laughs and fond memories. Then again, if determined to find fault, it can entirely kill the enjoyment of a holiday stone dead! I've had LOTS of compromised camping trips over the years, and if anything those are the ones we fondly reminisce over the most and laugh about the most.
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For a site that meets the requirements you have listed, it might be more value for money to stay in a static caravan.
My wife loves staying in them, they are not my preferred option, but sometimes depending on the situation its hard to argue against them.
Quote: Originally posted by RainMagnet on 30/3/2026
For a site that meets the requirements you have listed, it might be more value for money to stay in a static caravan.
My wife loves staying in them, they are not my preferred option, but sometimes depending on the situation its hard to argue against them.
Quite a good idea actually. We have stayed in static caravans in the past and quite like the idea. I'd never dream of owning one, even if we could afford it (which we can't) for many reasons but we'd happily rent one for a week or so, and have done. I wouldn't want to keep going back to the same place for one thing, and they are such a dreadful rip-off.
I think that a static would be an excellent idea. These are also more likely to have bars and swimming pools. Haven type sites possibly?! Never been to one.
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A day of all things motorhome and campervan. The show is held both in the main indoor arena and across the grounds. Catering, hot drinks and food options are available. Easy access to the site and free parking included. Win one of five pairs of day tickets
Topic: Looking for the impossible!?
via mobile 28/3/2026 at 3:43pm
