Campsites in Kent: our pick of the best

Why go camping in Kent?

Kent, known as the Garden of England, offers a splendid backdrop for unforgettable holidays. Steeped in history, this county boasts iconic landmarks such as Canterbury Cathedral and the White Cliffs of Dover. A journey through Kent's picturesque countryside reveals orchards, hop fields, and charming villages.

People staying on campsites in Kent can explore the historic Leeds Castle or wander through the enchanting gardens of Sissinghurst Castle. Coastal towns like Margate and Broadstairs offer sandy beaches and a vibrant arts scene. While camping in Kent you can indulge in local cuisine, from traditional cream teas to fresh seafood.

Whether strolling through historic Canterbury, hiking the North Downs Way, or savouring the coastal beauty, holidays in Kent promise a delightful blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.

Things to do in Kent

If you're thinking of heading to a campsite in Kent and want to know the best attractions in Kent to see, read on...

Begin your journey at Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in medieval history. Explore the breathtaking Leeds Castle, often dubbed the "loveliest castle in the world," and enjoy its stunning grounds and exhibitions. Immerse yourself in art at the Turner Contemporary in Margate or explore the maritime heritage at the Historic Dockyard Chatham. For nature enthusiasts, the White Cliffs of Dover offer unparalleled coastal views and walking opportunities.

You can also indulge in retail therapy at the renowned Bluewater Shopping Centre or uncover unique finds at The Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells. For family fun, visit the award-winning Howletts Wild Animal Park or the iconic Dreamland amusement park in Margate. With its orchards, vineyards, and Michelin-starred restaurants, Kent caters to culinary enthusiasts, too.

Whether savouring local delights, uncovering history, or enjoying outdoor adventures, Kent promises a vast selection attractions for everyone.

Campsites: Folkestone

Little Satmar is a quiet, peaceful campsite just a short walk away from the beautiful clifftop paths and splendid views across the English Channel.

The campsite is situated in the village of Capel-le-Ferne, just outside Folkestone, and caters for approximately 50 touring pitches, including three hardstanding areas. Many of the pitches have electric hook-up available and there are two toilet and shower blocks on the campsite. There is a reception which incorporates a small shop and tourist information, and a small laundry area.

At the top of the lane there is a local bus stop with routes into Folkestone and Dover which run every 15 minutes. In the local area to the campsite there are some country walks with fantastic views along the coastline, and the local clifftop café where you can sit and enjoy the views across the English Channel. There are two local pubs within easy reach which serve good food and real ales, and there is also a local store only one mile away.

Find out more: Little Satmar Holiday Park   

Campsites: Margate

The campsite touring area is home to 50 pitches, some of which are under a canopy of trees. This is also where you will find the showers and toilets, washing up area, chemical drain point and laundry facilities.

The campsite has a small shop and café with the opening hours adjusted in line with the seasons. Birchington village is only a 30-minute walk away. From there both buses and trains can be caught to local areas of interest, including Broadstairs and its award-winning beaches, and Margate with its traditional seafront and the Turner Contemporary art centre.

Birchington itself has a number of small supermarkets, places to eat and coffee shops to cater for all your needs. The local area boasts some wonderful sandy beaches and the Viking Coastal Trail to follow for walkers and cyclists. There are also a number of wildlife parks in the area and the RAF museum at Manston. Right on the campsite doorstep is the Powell-Cotton Museum and Quex House and Gardens.

Find out more: Quex Holiday Park   

Campsites: Whitstable

The campsite stands in about twelve and a half acres and comprises 195 plots for privately owned holiday caravans, and a further 43 pitches for tourers, tents and camping pods. Bring your tent or tourer to the selection of fully serviced grass pitches here or pick a stay in one of the wooden camping pods on site. All include easy access to outstanding campsite facilities, including a heated outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, clubhouse and more.

If you’re not familiar with Homing Park, it's just over a couple of miles from famous Whitstable, and about 15 minutes on foot from the beach and Saxon Shore Way at Seasalter. All pitches are grassy and level, and have the benefit of free electric, water and grey water drainage. Homing Park's camping field loos have been awarded Platinum status in the Loo of the Year Awards.

The campsite has been in existence since the 1950s, maybe earlier, and was owned by the Dench family until 1990 when the Boggia family took over the park, and then in 2022 the Kent family (Keat Farm Caravans) took the reins.

Find out more: Homing Park   

Campsites: Dover

Set in 28 acres of outstanding beauty that has been expertly landscaped, Hawthorn Farm Holiday Park is situated four miles from the Port of Dover.

The campsite has approximately 200 touring pitches, of which 15 are hardstandings, all with the availability of an electric hook-up. There are two toilet facilities, each with six showers in both the male and female sides, along with a disabled/family wetroom. Laundry facilities are also provided on the campsite.

Hawthorn Farm Holiday Park can be found between the towns of Deal and Dover. There is a bus stop and train station only 400 metres from the entrance of the holiday campsite, and there is also a play park only a short walk away. The village of St Margaret’s is two miles from the campsite, with its walks on the White Cliffs. On the campsite there is a small café and shop for all your needs which is open during reception hours.

Find out more: Hawthorn Farm  

Campsites: Kent countryside

Hop Farm Camping and Touring Park is an award-winning campsite, located in the heart of the Kent countryside, with 450 acres to enjoy and home to the world's largest collection of Victorian oast houses. The campsite is adjacent to the river so it is ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.

With brand-new, state-of-the-art shower and toilet facilities, 120 electric hook-ups and on-site drink and dine facilities, the campsite is the ideal destination for a relaxing and peaceful getaway. Centrally located, it’s the ideal base to explore the many areas of Kent, whether down to the coast or in the countryside. The perfect family staycation.

Find out more: Hop Farm Camping & Touring Park   

Broadhembury is a family-run campsite that has been owned by the same family for over 50 years and provides award-winning, excellent facilities for adults only and families. Uniquely split into two discreet areas, each serviced by their own facilities.

The Family area offers space for children, with an under-fives play park, larger playground, games room and sports field. The Adults' Meadows, set in fields and meadowland, is the ideal place for adults only to relax and enjoy a break away.

Whichever part of Broadhembury you choose, you'll find landscaped gardens and peaceful grounds with grass, hardstanding and fully serviced pitches available. Broadhembury's location is central to Kent, great for exploring castles and coastlines.

Find out more: Broadhembury Caravan & Camping Park   

This picturesque, five-star, award-winning caravan and camping capsite is set amidst glorious Kent countryside – with many dog-friendly walks leading direct from the campsite, through woodland, orchards and farmland. The campsite layout ensures that you are not crammed in as the 120 pitches are spaciously set within 15 acres of the campsite; even when the site is full it does not feel crowded.

Facilities include a shop, modern shower blocks, recreation room, two play areas, camping pods, and an area set aside for a handful of holiday lodges. Many visitors return year after year, creating a really friendly, family atmosphere.

The campsite is within easy reach of Kent’s top tourist attractions, including Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Bedgebury Pinetum, Bewl Water, Tunbridge Wells, Camber Sands and the Hop Farm, as well as many National Trust properties.

Find out more: Tanner Farm Park