Which UK campsites have the best on-site security measures?

It's the height of the camping season in England, and campers are on the hunt for the best campsites. Yet, while natural beauty and facilities are often key considerations, an often under-looked factor is security. When pitching your tent or parking your caravan for the night, the last thing you want is to feel unsafe. Therefore, let's shine a light on the most secure campsites across the UK.

1. Holiday Park Security Measures

Holiday parks are among the most popular types of campsites in the UK. They draw in a steady stream of tourists each year thanks to their wide range of facilities, from swimming pools and play areas to cafes and shops. But how do they ensure the safety and security of their guests?

Holiday parks often have a team of security personnel patrolling the area, especially during the peak season. In addition, many incorporate CCTV cameras to monitor the site around the clock. Automated barriers are also commonplace, restricting access to those who have booked a pitch.

The award-winning Sandy Balls Holiday Village in the New Forest, for example, boasts top-notch security measures. The site is regularly patrolled by a professional security team, and CCTV cameras are installed at strategic points throughout the park. There's also a barrier system in place, with access only granted to registered campers.

2. Caravan and Motorhome Club Sites

For caravan and motorhome owners, the Caravan and Motorhome Club offers an extensive network of sites across the UK. Club sites are renowned for their excellent facilities, spacious pitches and, importantly, their commitment to security.

The Longleat Caravan and Motorhome Club Site in Wiltshire is a prime example. Not only does it offer a stunning location in the heart of a 9,000-acre parkland, but it also provides peace of mind with its comprehensive security measures. A key fob system is used for access, ensuring only club members can enter the site. Additionally, the site is monitored by CCTV cameras, and a strict no visitor policy is enforced after dark.

3. Touring Park Security Measures

Touring parks, which cater to campers who move from site to site rather than staying in one place, also take security seriously. Many offer secure pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, with barriers or key pad systems controlling access.

Take the Trevalgan Touring Park in Cornwall as an example. This family-run park has received numerous awards for its high-quality facilities and stunning location. The security at Trevalgan includes a barrier system, CCTV surveillance, and a night warden who ensures the safety of campers after the reception has closed.

4. Family-Friendly Campsites

When it comes to family camping holidays, safety is a top priority. Parents want to know their children can play freely without worry. Many family-friendly campsites have risen to the challenge, offering comprehensive security measures to ensure peace of mind.

The Orchards Holiday Park on the Isle of Wight is a great example. This park, twice named as the best in England, has a 24-hour security team, CCTV surveillance, and a site-wide barrier system. The park also has a detailed safety policy, with clear guidelines for campers to follow, ensuring every family can enjoy their holiday without worry.

5. Luxury Campsite Security Measures

For those who want a more luxurious camping experience, several campsites offer high-end facilities – and security is usually at the top of their list of priorities.

The Kelling Heath Holiday Park in Norfolk is one such luxury camping site. It offers a range of accommodation options, from woodland lodges to luxury holiday homes, alongside its traditional camping pitches. But what sets it apart is its commitment to security. The park is monitored 24/7 by a professional security team, and access to the site is controlled by an advanced barrier system. Additionally, there's a comprehensive network of CCTV cameras, providing an extra layer of security.

Whether you're looking for a traditional camping trip or a more luxurious experience, it's clear that campsites across the UK are taking security seriously. From CCTV surveillance and security personnel to access control systems, these sites offer peace of mind alongside their fantastic facilities and stunning locations.

6. Wild Camping Security Measures

When people think of camping, they often envision pitching a tent in a secluded spot in the heart of nature. This is known as wild camping and it's a unique experience that can bring you closer to the natural world. However, this type of camping isn't immune to the importance of security.

Wild camping sites such as Dartmoor National Park in Devon take security very seriously. Despite being a vast, open landscape, Dartmoor has put in place several security measures to ensure campers feel safe. Dartmoor has a Ranger Service that regularly patrols the area, ensuring that campers are following the rules and guidelines of the park. This includes an emphasis on health safety, as well as encouraging respect for the environment and other campers.

In addition, campers are encouraged to follow the 'leave no trace' principle, taking everything with them when they leave, including their camping gear. This not only helps to maintain the natural beauty of the park but also acts as a deterrent to potential thieves. There are also designated areas within the park where camping is permitted, ensuring a community of fellow campers nearby for added security.

7. Farm Campsite Security Measures

Farm campsites present a unique offering in the camping scene, often providing a tranquil and rural setting for campers to enjoy. While they might feel off the beaten track, these sites don’t skimp on security.

For example, Dale Farm Campsite in the Peak District National Park provides a secure environment for its guests. The farm campsite offers a wide range of pitches, including grass pitch and pitch electric, to cater to the needs of caravanning club members and tent campers. It has a strong emphasis on providing accessible facilities for all.

Security measures include a controlled entry system, CCTV surveillance and a dedicated team on site, ensuring guests feel safe during their stay. Additionally, many farm campsites, including Dale Farm, encourage a sense of community among campers. This communal atmosphere often acts as a natural deterrent to potential wrongdoers and further contributes to the overall sense of security on site.

Conclusion

The camping caravanning lifestyle offers a fantastic opportunity to embrace the great outdoors. However, it's clear that security can't be an afterthought. Whether it's at a holiday park, a club site, a touring park, a family-friendly site, a luxury campsite, a wild camping spot or a farm campsite, you'll find that safety measures are a priority.

The campsites we've reviewed, from the Sandy Balls Holiday Village to the Dale Farm Campsite, all show a strong commitment to providing secure environments for their guests. With the use of CCTV, dedicated security teams, access control systems and a focus on health safety, these sites ensure that campers can relax and enjoy their stay.

So, next time you're planning a camping trip, consider these campsites for a secure and enjoyable experience amidst the UK's stunning landscapes. After all, a safe holiday is a happy holiday.