I've been going to shell island with friends and family for about 7 years now. We all love it, every part of it, but cant find any other campsite that quite hits the same.
We like Shell Island, because we like to go out into the wooded areas, and find a nice quiet spot, away from other campers surrounded by trees. A nice fire at night, under the stars. Also, it has shops and showers and phone charging, that you get the best of both worlds.
All other campsites are either just one big field, with no choice of where to camp, too may strict rules (no fires after 10pm etc), or have set pitches , that are shoulder to shoulder with other camps.
Any suggestions of other similar style sites would be greatly appreciated!
Don't forget to leave a review of the campsites you have visited this year or last!
Quote: Originally posted by agri on 20/9/2025
Have a look at Forestry campsites.
Not convinced the Scottish sites match the Shell Island free range vibe that the OP is looking for.
https://forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/activities/camping
Forest of Dean has sites that you are after. Look at a site called Bracelands, probably a review on this site.
Its right next to the forest which can be accessed by gates which must be kept shut because there are wild boar in the forest. You'll probably hear them at night. They will wreck the site if they get in as they did a little while ago.
There are a number is campsites such as Aldridge Hill in the new forest that sound like what you want but Aldridge Hill does not have toilets or showers, you have to have your own. We have walked through Aldridge Hill many many times, as there is a forest trail that runs along the side of the site, and it looks like you can pitch wherever you like within the wider boundary of the site. There are lots of tents and family groups with small toilet tents out the back. It is nowhere near as big as Shell Island but there are bits under trees, bits by the stream, and bits in the open glade. All they provide is water points and a place to empty your toilet.
However, I can’t remember the name of the group that run the site but they have a number of other sites in the New Forest, some of which have toilets and showers, which may offer the kind of freedom you are looking for (apart from the fire as fires are not allowed anywhere within the New Forest).
Shell Island sounds lovely, but I must admit to something of a surprise that open fires are allowed anywhere near woodland. I would have thought that would be a definite no-no!
------------- Best Regards,
Colin
Don't forget to leave a review of the campsites you have visited this year or last!
Quote: Originally posted by Colin21 on 21/9/2025
Shell Island sounds lovely, but I must admit to something of a surprise that open fires are allowed anywhere near woodland. I would have thought that would be a definite no-no!
shell island doesnt have a woodland, what it does have is hedges that have stone walls inside them, a few of these hedges have grown tall, but definately not into a woodland such as your more acustomed to in and around sandringham we are talking the very odd tree in a hedge here
"Do not make open fires. All fires must be raised off the ground in a fire bin. Please ensure all fire/ash is dampened before disposal into skips. Camp fires are ok on the main beach as long as you clean up afterwards."
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: Anything comparable to Shell Island?
via mobile 05/9/2025 at 7:09pm
