Pembrokeshire, located in the southwest of Wales, is a stunning destination known for its rugged coastline, historic landmarks, and beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, a beach lover, or someone seeking tranquility in nature, camping in Pembrokeshire is an excellent way to experience its charm. With numerous campsites available, selecting the right one for your needs is crucial to ensure your trip is enjoyable and stress-free.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the perfect Pembrokeshire campsite based on your preferences, from family-friendly options to those suited for couples, adventurers, and pet owners. We’ll also highlight Rhosson Ganol, one of the best campsites in Pembrokeshire, and explain why it stands out as an ideal base for your adventure.
1. Determine Your Camping Style
Before choosing a campsite, it’s important to identify what kind of camping experience you’re looking for. Different campsites cater to varying preferences, whether you’re seeking an off-the-grid escape or a well-equipped site with modern conveniences.
Wild Camping vs. Traditional Campsites
- Wild Camping: Pembrokeshire is a popular destination for wild camping, where campers can immerse themselves in nature, away from the crowds. This style of camping offers more freedom but comes with fewer amenities. It’s best suited for experienced campers who are comfortable without facilities like toilets and showers.
- Traditional Campsites: Most beginners and families prefer established campsites that offer essential amenities such as toilets, showers, and sometimes even electricity hookups. Traditional campsites provide more comfort and convenience, especially for longer stays or if you’re new to camping.
If you’re looking for a site that offers a balance between nature and comfort, Rhosson Ganol is a great choice. Located near St. Davids, it’s close to nature but still provides necessary facilities like clean showers and toilets.
2. Consider Proximity to Pembrokeshire’s Top Attractions
One of the main reasons visitors choose to Pembrokeshire Camping is its abundance of outdoor activities and attractions. Whether you’re interested in hiking, exploring historic sites, or spending time on the beach, the location of your campsite is key.
Best Campsites for Outdoor Enthusiasts
- Hiking and Coastal Walks: If you love hiking, camping near the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a must. This 186-mile-long path offers stunning views of cliffs, beaches, and wildlife. Rhosson Ganol is ideally situated near the coast, making it a perfect base for those who want to explore the path and its breathtaking scenery.
- Beaches: Pembrokeshire is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, including Whitesands Bay, Freshwater West, and Barafundle Bay. If spending time by the sea is a priority for you, choose a campsite that is located close to the beach. Rhosson Ganol, for example, is just a short distance from Whitesands Bay, making it ideal for beachgoers and surfers.
- Historic Sites: History lovers may prefer a campsite near Pembrokeshire’s historic landmarks, such as St. Davids Cathedral and Pembroke Castle. Rhosson Ganol is conveniently located near St. Davids, where visitors can explore the ancient cathedral and other historic sites.
3. Identify Campsites with Facilities That Suit Your Needs
Facilities vary widely from one campsite to another, so it’s important to choose a campsite that offers the amenities that matter most to you. This is particularly important for families, beginners, or campers who prefer a bit more comfort.
Key Facilities to Look For
- Toilets and Showers: For most campers, access to clean toilets and showers is a top priority. Many campsites, including Rhosson Ganol, provide well-maintained facilities that make your stay more comfortable.
- Electric Hook-Ups: If you’re traveling with a campervan or need to charge devices, campsites with electric hook-ups are essential. While not all campsites offer this feature, Rhosson Ganol provides electric hook-ups for campers who require them.
- Kitchen and Cooking Facilities: Some campsites offer communal kitchens or cooking areas, while others expect campers to bring their own stoves. Make sure the campsite has appropriate options depending on whether you plan to cook your own meals or prefer to eat out.
- On-Site Shops or Cafes: For those who prefer not to cook, a campsite with an on-site shop or café can be convenient. Many campsites have small shops that sell camping essentials and local produce.
By selecting a campsite with the facilities that match your comfort level, you can ensure that your stay is enjoyable and hassle-free.
4. Find Family-Friendly Campsites
If you’re camping with children, it’s important to choose a campsite that caters to families and offers activities to keep kids entertained. Family-friendly campsites often provide playgrounds, spacious pitches, and proximity to family-oriented attractions.
Features to Look for in a Family Campsite
- Play Areas: Campsites with play areas or open spaces are perfect for keeping children entertained. This allows kids to have fun while parents relax.
- Safe and Spacious Pitches: Families often need larger pitches to accommodate bigger tents and extra gear. Look for campsites that offer plenty of space and have a safe environment for children to play.
- Nearby Family Attractions: Choose a campsite located near attractions that children will enjoy, such as beaches, wildlife parks, or adventure centers.
Rhosson Ganol is a great option for families. It’s close to Whitesands Bay, where kids can swim, surf, or explore rock pools. The campsite’s peaceful environment makes it a perfect place for families to unwind after a day of adventure.
5. Choose a Campsite That Welcomes Pets
If you’re planning to bring your dog along on your camping trip, make sure you choose a campsite that is pet-friendly. Pembrokeshire is a fantastic destination for dog owners, thanks to its dog-friendly beaches, coastal paths, and outdoor spaces.
Pet-Friendly Campsite Features
- Dog-Friendly Beaches: Pembrokeshire has many beaches that welcome dogs year-round. If beach time is important to you and your dog, choose a campsite close to these beaches.
- Dog-Friendly Campsites: Not all campsites allow pets, so it’s essential to check beforehand. Rhosson Ganol is one of the top dog-friendly campsites in Pembrokeshire, offering a warm welcome to campers traveling with their four-legged friends.
- Open Spaces for Exercise: Look for campsites with plenty of open spaces or nearby walking trails, so your dog can get plenty of exercise during your stay.
By selecting a pet-friendly campsite, you can ensure your dog enjoys the holiday just as much as you do.
6. Consider Budget-Friendly Campsites
Camping in Pembrokeshire doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly campsites that offer great locations and amenities at affordable prices. If you’re looking to save money on accommodation, consider these tips for finding cost-effective campsites.
Tips for Finding Budget Campsites
- Basic Facilities: If you don’t need all the bells and whistles, consider choosing a campsite with more basic amenities. Campsites with fewer facilities tend to be more affordable.
- Off-Peak Camping: Camping during the off-peak season can help you save money. Many campsites offer discounted rates outside of the busy summer months.
- Pitch-Only Options: Some campsites offer pitch-only options, where you bring your own tent and equipment. This can be a more budget-friendly choice compared to renting pre-pitched tents or cabins.
Rhosson Ganol offers affordable camping options without compromising on comfort, making it a great choice for those looking to camp on a budget.
7. Read Reviews and Do Your Research
Before booking a campsite, it’s a good idea to read reviews from other campers. Reviews can give you a sense of what to expect in terms of facilities, atmosphere, and the overall experience. Additionally, looking at photos and descriptions on the campsite’s website can help you determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Where to Find Reviews
- Camping Websites: Sites like Pitchup.com and UK Campsite allow users to leave reviews and ratings for campsites across the UK.
- Google Reviews: Many campsites have Google reviews that offer insight into other campers’ experiences.
- Social Media: Some campsites maintain active social media profiles where they post updates and interact with campers. This can give you a more personal look at the campsite.
Taking the time to do your research will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you choose the best campsite for your trip.
Conclusion
Choosing the right campsite in Pembrokeshire is essential for creating the perfect camping experience. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly site, a pet-friendly retreat, or a base near the area’s top attractions, there’s a campsite for every type of traveler. Rhosson Ganol stands out as one of the best options, thanks to its fantastic location near St. Davids, its range of amenities, and its welcoming atmosphere. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to selecting the ideal Pembrokeshire campsite for your next adventure.
