National Forest Camping Guide for Motorhome Travelers

If you love driving a motorhome and want to soak up forest scenery, the UK’s national forests are perfect. They offer quiet spots, good roads, and plenty of places to park. Below you’ll find easy steps to plan your trip, avoid common hiccups, and make the most of forest camping.

Pick the Right Forest and Spot

Start with a list of national forests that are friendly to motorhomes. In the north, the North York Moors National Park has several caravan sites with electric hookups. A short drive from Teesside, it gives you forest trails and seaside views in one go. Further south, the New Forest offers wide lanes and several Hook‑up sites near Brockenhurst. Check each forest’s website for a map of motorhome‑friendly bays – they usually show level ground, waste points, and water.

When you pick a spot, look for these basics:

• Level ground for easy parking.
• Near a water source or pump.
• Clear signage about fire bans or dog rules.

Most forests have a few designated areas where you can stay overnight without a permit. If you’re not sure, call the visitor centre; they’ll tell you the best place to pull in.

Plan Your Route and Stay Legal

Use a GPS that shows low‑bridge heights and weight limits – many forest roads have restrictions for larger motorhomes. Plot your journey so you hit a fuel stop before the forest; some remote sites don’t have pumps nearby.

Before you set up, read the forest’s by‑law. Most UK forests allow motorhome parking for up to 24 hours in a designated area. If you want a longer stay, you’ll need a campsite booking or a special permit. Breaking the rules can lead to fines, so keep your stay within the limits.

Don’t forget waste rules. Empty both fresh‑water and waste tanks at an official dump point – many sites have a self‑service bay that works 24/7. Never dump on the ground; it harms wildlife and can get you banned.

Fire safety is another must. Check the current fire ban status on the forest’s website. If fires are allowed, use only designated pits and keep a bucket of water nearby. If bans are in place, stick to a portable stove for cooking.

With these basics covered, you’re ready to enjoy forest trails, wildlife spotting, and night skies. Wake up to birdsong, brew a coffee on the patio, and hit the road again feeling refreshed.

Remember, the best forest trips are low‑stress. Arrive early to claim a good spot, follow the rules, and treat the land with respect. Your motorhome gives you freedom, and the national forests give you the backdrop. Combine them, and you’ve got a road trip worth sharing.