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We were a party of 7 varied units (touring vans, folding caravan, tents and motor home) and we were sited together along the forest edge by the path, all with electric hook-up. We all enjoyed our stay from the day we arrived until the day we left. We were able to pitch so that we all faced each other, which is not always the case.
The staff were very helpful whenever we spoke to them. The toilets and showers were always clean, however the showers by the children's play park were not always hot, I didn't have any problem with the showers in the other block.
The shop had quite a lot of varied items considering its size. We bought chips from the take-away which were very good.
Our small children enjoyed both the park and the paddling pool and the older ones, the pitch and putt. We had wi-fi access so were able to use the laptop too.
We visited Swanage twice, once using the steam train and went for walks in the woods nearby. Corfe Castle is also close and visible from the train.
I didn't find the site crowded, we were there in the middle of August, so maybe it was busier nearer the bank holiday week.
If I can work out how to do it I will post photos of the site from various angles!
The only thing negative thing was not the fault of the site but inconsiderate dogs owners who allowed their dogs to run free instead of being always on a lead as our dogs were!
Just returned from 6 lovely days at Birchwood. And would definitely go back.
On arrival, the staff were very helpful and friendly and make the whole booking in experience quick and easy. The pitches were a good size considering we have a massive tent, although if we'd pitched front to back against the fence, our kitchen porch would have been on a fair slope.
We only ever used the bottom block of toilets / showers / dishwashing and they were always spotlessly clean. Showers were lovely and hot, we always went for a shower later in the evening when the rush had died off, so never experienced the queues which might have occurred.
The site is very big, and very open. We were lucky enough to be down a little lane which was mostly tents during our stay, towards the last couple of days more caravans turned up and it did start to feel a little closed in.
Overall a really love site - the takeaway was sampled on our first night and was top notch. The shop was always well stocked, we're still nibbling on some of the lovely Dorset lardy cake that we treated ourselves to!
This is our 6th visit to Dorset this year and I'm sure Birchwood will go on the list of sites to visit again.
I've just returned from my fourth visit to this site. Two trips back in the late 90's when my kids were small and now a trip last year and this year.
There are a lot of positives - well maintained, very secure, generally lovely staff (with 1 exception, but maybe he'd had a bad day!)and handy little shop.
The lower shower block is very nice, top one is fine. There's a big games field and a handy dog walk if that's your thing. It now feels very much like a caravan site with a few tents slotted in, which may just be the fact that its August and busy, but its just not my cup of tea any more.
Shame as I have a lot of good memories of the place, but I felt really hemmed in.
Sadly I have mixed feelings about Birchwood. We had stayed here for a few nights many years ago but were not in a great hurry to return as despite loving the views, rabbits running around etc we don't like the way they cram them in here. However as we had no luck getting a pitch elsewhere for the last 4 nights of our holiday in the end we tried here and were told they only had one pitch left - a fully serviced one, although we did not really want a fully serviced pitch as it was the only one available it was here or go home.
We had to pay £120 for four nights. To our disappointment the pitch we were given was right next to a run down mobile home and the staff/wardens caravans which was not ideal and probably explains why this was the only pitch left.
We tried to make the most of it however but soon discovered that our pitch was being used as a thoroughfare by the staff/cleaners and their children on bikes and their children's friends on bikes etc etc, we felt we had no privacy when we sat outside our pitch at all, and the fact that we had two dogs who were constantly being disturbed by people/bikes whizzing by all day and night made it very unrelaxing.
Added to this the playing field was also located right behind our pitch so we also had people accessing it via our pitch! I really feel this has been poorly thought out and that rather than squeezing as many units as they can on which throughout the park, which seems to be the norm here (there are units all over the place and it's seems really cramped and unorganised) they should think about campers enjoyment, and at least create a proper entrance/exit to the staff units/playing field so other campers are not disturbed.
Sadly as well as this we had to leave two nights early as my husband had badly hurt his knee, when I called reception and explained we had paid £120 for 4 nights but would have to leave after only 2 due to his injury I got no sympathy or understanding at all, instead I was told point blank no refunds, I even asked for a credit note for the 2 nights we had paid £60 for (thinking we could return in the winter when it's quiet) but was refused this also. I was very disappointed as I let them know at 9am so there was plenty of time for them to rebook the pitch (which we were informed had been empty for the week before we came anyway!) and to our disgust despite us being refused this as they 'had been turning people away so could not fill the pitch' as we were about to leave I noticed they were waiting for us to leave as they had another caravan they were about to tow in to the pitch that we had paid for for the next 2 nights!
This is sad as I really love the forest feel of this site and it's location is great but for the above reasons we felt very let down so would not return here again.
Good, clean, level and well laid out site. Toilet and shower blocks were clean and spacious. Friendly staff and wardens with a good sense of humour. Well stocked shop, also did take aways.
Large playing field, with tennis net and a small pitch and put golf area (not for the keen golfer though!).
Not within walking distance of any pubs or shops, but great for the forest walks.
Well located to explore the sites and beaches of Dorset.
I have just returned from my third visit to this lovely site over the Diamond Jubilee weekend.
The site was packed, with only a few non-EHU pitches unoccupied.
Showering at peak time was fun. Apart from having to queue with a few people in front, the water was lukewarm at about 09:00h. The adults were able to grin and bear it, however, it could not be much fun for the younger campers.
The weather was not too kind over the weekend, which highlighted the issue of lack of shelter/cover over the washing up area at the lower block.
Apparently there are plans to address the issues highlighted above.
There were extra staff on hand to address any issues, and were all very helpful and pleasant.
The site offered take away service in the evenings, and also breakfast rolls in some of the mornings. The prices appeared to be very reasonable, however, I cooked myself and did not sample their fare, so I cannot comment on their quality.
The facilities remained immaculate despite the site being so full, thanks to the dedicated team of staff who frequently check and clean the facility blocks.
Ladies would need to be forewarned that the facility blocks are often serviced by male members of staff, as it could be a bit of a shock for the un-initiated.
Apart from the slight niggles with insufficient hot water at peak times during a very busy weekend, and the washing up area being exposed to the elements, Birchwood remains my favourite site, as it has plenty to offer.
I have already planned to return next year in mid June when it will be quieter and hopefully no shortage of hot water!
Stayed here over the Jubilee bank holiday weekend for three nights, the downside was we had to pay for a minimum of 4 regardless.
Lovely site, nice clean, regularly cleaned toilet/shower blocks and never was wanting for hot water as has been mentioned in other reviews. Maybe the men just use less of it.
We were showed to our part of the site and told we could pitch anywhere which was an advantage as it meant we could avoid any lumps and bumps. We have two small boys and a teenage daughter so never going to keep everyone happy but the boys loved it.
Plenty of space, a forest on the doorstep and a play park, although this is small and my kids soon lost interest preferring to fill our kettle with dry grass!
Staff genuinely interested in helping. Would definitely return and recommend. Plenty to see and do in the wider area.
Just spent 4 days at Birchwood so thought I'd leave a review. I chose Birchwood, mainly because of its great location and its proximity to places I could take the children.
Because I was camping with young children I also wanted a site with clean facilities and one that had a warden on site. The clincher was that some friends of ours were also going with their children in their caravan.
The site itself is just outside Wareham and backs on to Wareham Forest. From the main road a long drive leads to the reception area which also doubles as the site shop. I had booked in advance and the booking in process was very quick and easy.
The site itself is then accessed via a barrier which operates with number plate recognition. The site is laid out in a large circle with the one way road running around the middle. This part of the site is largely used by caravans although you could camp here if you wanted. The main camping field is located in a separate field and is huge.
I was shown to my pitch as I'd booked EHU and it was my first visit. I have posted some pics to show just how much space we had. If you search on the Caravan and campsite section and type in Birchwood Tourist Park, I'm sure you'll find them.
Behind us lay Wareham Forest which was easily accessed and has plenty of marked trails to follow. Ideal for dog walkers, bike riders or just taking the children for a walk.
The main facilities are located at the centre of the site and comprise a modern building with toilets/showers, laundry room, washing up area etc. They were always clean even as the site got busier toward the Easter weekend. Also located here is a small playground for younger children, which mine loved.
The site shop sells the basics and seemed reasonably well priced and all the staff I spoke to were very friendly and helpful.
Because there weren't very many tents on our visit we never had a problem with noise. By 9 o'clock all was quiet. The caravan area was pretty full up by Easter but again my friend who was there never had any problems with late night noise. Sure children are playing until 9 ish but I don't mind that. The site had a nice 'feel' to it if you know what I mean. Lots of families with children, dog walkers, cyclists etc which made a nice safe atmosphere.
The site also proved a good base to visit the local attractions. Studland beach, Corfe Castle, Monkey World, Durdle Door, Lullworth Castle, Swanage and Poole Harbour are all about half an hour away in a car.
Wareham is a 5 min drive and has a small Sainsburys.
I guess the only thing to be aware of is it's not the sort of site you can go to and not use the car. If you plan on going anywhere then I would say a car is a must.
All in all then I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Birchwood and can't wait until we go back.
I returned to Birchwood two years after my first visit, and the site did not disappoint.
Helpful staff, from initial booking through to my stay on site. They cared about their work, and it showed.
Facilities were spotless, and the lower ladies block had been refurbished to a high standard.
A peaceful site, being away from the traffic.
Wareham is only a couple of miles away where one can find supermarkets and take aways.
However, I found the fish and chips shop in the high street expensive at 7. 10 GBP for a piece Haddock that was not particularly big (4. 80 GBP), a portion of chips (priced separately from the fish at 1. 30 GBP) and a can of Coke (a whopping 1. 00 GBP)! Shan't make that mistake again!
There is a pub within walking distance to the campsite, namely The Silent Woman, however, I did not go there so I cannot comment what it is like.
Plenty of walks around the site, being virtually next door to the Wareham Forest.
The dog enjoyed his run next to my bike when I cycled around the campsite, much to the amusement of the others staying there.
There is a paddling pool (shut during my stay), two play areas, one with swings, the other with climbing frames etc. , and a large playing field away from the main part of the site for ball games and kite flying etc.
The site is only a short drive away from Sandbanks where one can find lovely sandy beaches. And it has a large section where dogs are allowed throughout the year.
All in all, a very pleasant stay, despite the really gusty wind that broke my tent, forcing me to leave a day early. Thanks by the way, to the kind couple in the caravan next to me, who helped to perform emergency rescue on my collapsed tent.
Birchwood remains to be my favourite campsite. I love it so much I have already booked to return for a week in June 2012 with a new tent!
A really well maintained site. Site has a relaxed but managed feel about it. Lots of on site wardens who were all friendly and no doubt whose presence ensure there is no unruly behaviour from residents.
Toilets and showers were always clean with hot water and seemed sufficient for the number of residents there.
Useful shop on site with good stock of essentials. Also a take away service which we did not use but was a great idea.
Great walks/cycle rides nearby and a fantastic pub 'The Silent Lady' down the road serving fab food.
I would recommend and return to this site.
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Common Questions
Is Birchwood Tourist Park child friendly? YES, it accepts children & has a playground View all facilities
Where is the nearest shop to Birchwood Tourist Park? There is a shop on site View all facilities
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
All reviews and comments are the personal opinion of the review author only , and as such do not represent the view of the UK Camp Site.co.uk.
The facilities shown on this website are a guide only, and you should check with the campsite direct before making any booking. The UKCampsite.co.uk will not be held responsible for any errors or omissions
Tent Pitches 
Caravan Pitches 
Motorhome Pitches 
Small Campervans 
No Glamping Units 
No Statics for Hire 
No Statics for Sale 
Seasonal Pitches 
Electric Hookups 
Hardstanding Pitches 
Fully Serviced Pitches 
Families Welcome 
Not Members Only 
Rallies Welcome 
Not Naturist Site 
Dogs Welcome 
No Dogs Allowed 
Groups Welcome 
Motorbikers Welcome 
Toilet Facilities 
Hot Showers 
Washing Up 
No Bathroom 
No Baby Changing 
Laundry On Site 
Drinking Water 
Disabled Friendly 
Chemical Disposal 
No Battery Charging 
Gas Exchange 
Recycling Facilities 
No Kitchen Facilities 
No Freezer / Fridge 
Motorhome Point 
Wifi Access 
Shop On Site 
Bar <5 miles 
Restaurant or Cafe or Takeaway <5 miles 
Kids Playground 
No TV Room 
No Games Room 
No Evening Ents 
Fishing <5 miles 
No Wild Swimming 
Indoor Pool <5 miles 
No Outdoor Pool 
No Horse Riding 
No Cycle Hire 
Golf <5 miles 
No Tennis 
Beach <10 miles 
Watersports <10 miles 
Boat Launch / Mooring <10 miles 
No Sea Views 
Not Working Farm 
No Campfires Allowed 
Open All Year 
No Waterside Pitches 
Public Transport <5 miles
Offroad Dog Walk On Site or Direct Access 
Electric Car Charging Point
We were a party of 7 varied units (touring vans, folding caravan, tents and motor home) and we were sited together along the forest edge by the path, all with electric hook-up. We all enjoyed our stay from the day we arrived until the day we left. We were able to pitch so that we all faced each other, which is not always the case. 
