Best camping sites in the Kent Downs for the perfect outdoor escape

As the seasons shift and nature comes alive, there’s no better time to grab your tent (or book a cosy glamping spot) and head to the Kent Downs. If fresh air, open landscapes, and the simple joy of sitting around a campfire sound like your kind of escape, consider this your sign to pack up and get outdoors. 

The Kent Downs offers a peaceful retreat, with ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and beautiful valleys that make it an ideal place to reconnect with nature. There’s something special about camping here and spending a night under the starry sky in the Garden of England.  

This region is home to a variety of campsites, each with its own charm. Some are tucked away in quiet corners of nature, while others offer panoramic views of the Downs. Whichever you choose, expect peaceful mornings filled with birdsong, vast open skies, and miles of footpaths waiting to be explored. And the best part? You’re never too far from vibrant towns, historic villages, and the coast. 

If you’re looking to switch off from the daily grind, the Kent Downs is the perfect place to slow down and soak up the great outdoors. Hiking, cycling, or just spending the evening cooking over a campfire and stargazing, these campsites offer the perfect base for your adventure. 

1. Palace Farm Campsite

Doddington, Sittingbourne, Kent

Open: May – September (Glamping from mid-May)

Tucked away on a working fruit farm, Palace Farm is a peaceful retreat surrounded by open fields and ancient woodland. It feels wonderfully secluded, yet you’re only a short drive from Canterbury and the coast.

You can pitch your own tent or go for a hassle-free option with a pre-pitched bell tent, complete with a comfy mattress and picnic table. Evenings are best spent around the fire pit, making the most of the site’s quiet policy and tranquil atmosphere.

2. Painters Farm Campsite 

Faversham, Kent 

Open: March – October 

For a laid-back camping experience surrounded by nature, Painters Farm is a brilliant choice. Set in a cherry orchard, this relaxed campsite offers a mix of tent pitches and motorhome spots. This place blends rustic charm with easy access to Faversham’s historic streets and nearby beaches. 

What’s even better? Your dog can join the fun! This pet-friendly site welcomes your furry friend so you can both enjoy the adventure together. After a day exploring the local beaches or the historic streets of Faversham, you can stroll over to a nearby country pub for a well-earned pint. 

3. Dunn Street Farm

Westwell, Ashford, Kent

Open: April – September (Some pitches year-round)

If you’re after a classic camping experience, Dunn Street Farm is an excellent choice. Located along the North Downs Way National Trail, it’s ideal for walkers and cyclists looking for a peaceful spot to rest after a day of exploring. Nestled in a tranquil hay meadow, this campsite provides a wonderful place to unwind, take in the fresh countryside air, and enjoy the serenity of nature.

For something a little different, try staying in one of their handcrafted shepherd’s huts. Each one has its own wood burner, so you’ll be warm and cosy even on cooler nights. You can sit outside by your fire pit, toast some marshmallows, and take in the beauty around you.

4. The Sunny Field

Stelling Minnis, Canterbury, Kent

Open: Limited weekends from May – mid-September

For those who want to really disconnect, The Sunny Field offers a back-to-basics experience. It’s a peaceful, car-free campsite tucked away in the Kent Downs. Every pitch comes with its own fire pit, perfect for gathering around after a day of adventure.

The best part? The pre-pitched bell tents add a fun twist to your stay, with themes ranging from nautical to classic literature—making for a truly unique camping experience. Plus, there are occasional pizza nights and fresh coffee in the mornings to make your stay even more enjoyable.

5. Wild Woodland Retreat

Elham, Canterbury, Kent

Open: Pitches from mid-April – October, Shepherd’s Huts year-round

If you’re looking for somewhere secluded and peaceful, Wild Woodland Retreat is a hidden gem. Set on a rewilded farm, this site offers a range of pitches tucked away in private spots. There are also beautifully handcrafted shepherd’s huts, each one with its own little piece of tranquillity—one in a woodland glade and the other overlooking sweeping valleys.

For something extra special, you can try a guided goat walk or even join a yoga session in the peaceful countryside. This is the kind of place that encourages you to slow down to truly appreciate nature.

6. Coxhill Camping

Shepherdswell, Dover, Kent

Open: Grass pitches from late May – mid-September, Gravel pitches April – October

Coxhill Camping is all about spacious, relaxed camping in a beautiful setting. This campsite gives you plenty of room to stretch out, with grass and gravel pitches to suit your needs. There’s a private woodland for quiet walks and direct access to trails that take you straight into the Kent Downs. It’s a great spot to switch off and explore.

Just a short drive from the White Cliffs of Dover, it’s a great spot for those who want to combine camping with a little adventure. After a day of hiking, relax around your fire pit and watch the stars come out.

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Respect, protect, enjoy

We love the Kent Downs and want to keep it as beautiful as it is today, which means doing our bit to protect it. If you’re visiting, here’s how you can help:

• Respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance, especially during breeding seasons. Spring is a crucial time for young animals like lambs and ground-nesting birds.
• Stick to the paths to help protect delicate wildflowers and plants, including rare orchids.
• Keep dogs on a lead, as even the friendliest dogs can accidentally disturb wildlife or livestock. It’s best to keep them close, especially around farm animals.