Camping in Pembrokeshire’s National Park offers an unforgettable experience, filled with breathtaking views, coastal trails, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of one of the UK’s most scenic regions. Setting up your campsite in this stunning area requires planning, knowledge, and an appreciation for nature.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up a campsite in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, offering tips on choosing the perfect location, essential equipment, and best practices for staying eco-friendly. We’ll also introduce you to Rhosson Ganol, one of the best campsites in Pembrokeshire, known for its convenience, comfort, and proximity to the park’s incredible sights.
1. Choose the Right Location
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park spans 620 square kilometers, featuring rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, wooded valleys, and scenic hills. Whether you’re looking for a coastal camping experience or something more inland, choosing the right campsite location is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay.
Popular Camping Areas in Pembrokeshire National Park
- St. Davids Peninsula: This area is famous for its proximity to the coast and historical attractions like St. Davids Cathedral. Rhosson Ganol, located near St. Davids, offers a fantastic base for campers wanting to explore the peninsula’s beaches and coastal paths.
- Preseli Hills: Inland camping spots near the Preseli Hills offer panoramic views of the park’s rugged landscape and access to ancient historical sites like Pentre Ifan, a Neolithic burial chamber.
- Marloes Peninsula: If you prefer quieter, more secluded spots, Marloes is perfect for camping close to pristine beaches like Marloes Sands, and it’s a short ferry ride from the wildlife haven of Skomer Island.
Wherever you choose to set up camp, make sure the location aligns with your interests—whether that’s hiking, beach access, or wildlife spotting.
2. Consider Campsite Comfort and Accessibility
While wild Pembrokeshire Camping is technically not allowed within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park without permission from landowners, there are several established campsites where you can still enjoy the beauty of the park without breaking any rules. Rhosson Ganol is one of the best campsites in Pembrokeshire, offering a comfortable and well-equipped place to pitch your tent.
Benefits of Staying at Rhosson Ganol
- Convenience: Situated close to the iconic Whitesands Bay and the coastal paths of St. Davids Peninsula, Rhosson Ganol is a prime location for beach lovers and hikers alike.
- Facilities: The campsite provides access to amenities such as clean toilets, showers, and even electric hook-ups, ensuring you have all the essentials for a comfortable stay.
- Family-Friendly: Rhosson Ganol is great for families, offering spacious pitches and proximity to safe, lifeguard-patrolled beaches like Whitesands Bay, ideal for children.
For those who prefer a more structured camping experience while still being close to nature, Rhosson Ganol is an ideal choice.
3. Pack Essential Camping Gear
Setting up a successful campsite starts with packing the right gear. The unpredictable weather in Pembrokeshire means you need to be prepared for both sunshine and rain, even during summer months.
Essential Equipment for Camping in Pembrokeshire
- Tent: Choose a durable, weather-resistant tent with a strong waterproof rating. Pembrokeshire’s coastal winds can be strong, so make sure your tent is sturdy enough to handle windy conditions.
- Sleeping Bag and Sleeping Mat: Invest in a good quality sleeping bag that can handle cooler temperatures at night. A foam or inflatable sleeping mat will provide insulation from the ground, making your sleep more comfortable.
- Cooking Equipment: Portable stoves are essential, as campfires may not be allowed at certain sites. Bring lightweight cookware, utensils, and enough fuel for your trip. Many campsites, like Rhosson Ganol, may have BBQ areas or communal kitchens for added convenience.
- Waterproof Clothing: Even if the forecast looks sunny, rain can come unexpectedly. Always pack a waterproof jacket, trousers, and sturdy footwear to keep yourself dry.
- Lighting: A headlamp or lantern is essential for navigating your campsite after dark. Solar-powered lights or battery-powered lanterns work well and are eco-friendly.
- Portable Charger: If you’re staying at a site without electricity, a portable power bank will keep your devices charged for navigation or emergency purposes.
4. Set Up Your Tent Safely
Once you’ve chosen your campsite, setting up your tent properly is crucial for comfort and safety. Whether you’re at a designated campsite like Rhosson Ganol or an approved camping spot, follow these steps to ensure a smooth setup.
Tent Setup Tips
- Choose Level Ground: Always pitch your tent on flat, dry ground. Avoid pitching in dips where water might collect during rain.
- Face the Wind: If you’re camping near the coast, make sure to face the door of your tent away from the wind to reduce wind pressure on the tent’s structure.
- Secure Your Tent: Use all of your tent’s guylines and stakes to properly secure it. Pembrokeshire’s coastal areas can experience strong gusts, so securing your tent tightly will prevent it from being blown over.
- Add a Groundsheet: Use a groundsheet underneath your tent for added insulation and to keep moisture out. This can make a big difference in staying warm and dry, especially in Pembrokeshire’s unpredictable weather.
If you’re staying at Rhosson Ganol, the campsite offers spacious pitches on level ground, reducing setup hassles and ensuring your tent remains secure during your stay.
5. Stay Eco-Friendly While Camping
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a protected area, so it’s important to minimize your environmental impact while camping. Following Leave No Trace principles ensures that you enjoy nature responsibly without harming the environment.
Leave No Trace Tips
- Take All Rubbish with You: Whether you’re staying at a campsite or hiking along the coast, always pack out your rubbish. This includes food wrappers, containers, and biodegradable waste.
- Use Designated Toilets: If you’re at a campsite like Rhosson Ganol, always use the provided toilets. For wild camping, ensure you follow proper waste disposal guidelines by digging a hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water sources.
- Minimize Campfire Use: Many campsites do not allow open campfires, and wild camping in Pembrokeshire’s protected areas often restricts their use. Instead, use portable stoves or BBQs provided by the campsite.
- Respect Wildlife: Pembrokeshire is home to many species of birds, seals, and other wildlife. Observe animals from a distance, avoid feeding them, and keep noise to a minimum to protect their natural habitat.
By camping at Rhosson Ganol, you’ll have access to waste disposal facilities and eco-friendly amenities, making it easier to reduce your environmental footprint.
6. Explore Nearby Attractions
Once your campsite is set up, take advantage of Pembrokeshire’s many outdoor attractions. Whether you’re looking for coastal hikes, beach days, or historical exploration, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has something for everyone.
Top Attractions Near Rhosson Ganol
- Whitesands Bay: This Blue Flag beach is perfect for families, surfers, and nature lovers. With its golden sands and clear waters, Whitesands is just a short walk from Rhosson Ganol.
- St. Davids: The UK’s smallest city, St. Davids offers historical sites like St. Davids Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace, as well as local shops and cafés to explore.
- Ramsey Island: Located just off the coast from St. Davids, this island is a wildlife haven, home to seals, seabirds, and stunning coastal scenery. Boat trips to Ramsey Island offer a unique way to experience Pembrokeshire’s wildlife up close.
- Pembrokeshire Coast Path: Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply want to enjoy a coastal stroll, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers 186 miles of stunning views, rugged cliffs, and picturesque villages. Many sections of the path are easily accessible from Rhosson Ganol.
7. Be Prepared for Emergencies
While camping in Pembrokeshire’s National Park is generally safe, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies, particularly if you’re venturing into remote areas.
Safety Tips for Camping
- Carry a First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit is essential for treating minor injuries like cuts, scrapes, or blisters. Make sure to include bandages, antiseptic, and any personal medications.
- Bring a Map and Compass: Mobile signal can be patchy in parts of the park, so don’t rely solely on your phone for navigation. Carry a map and compass to stay on track, especially if you’re hiking along the coast.
- Know the Local Emergency Contacts: Keep a note of emergency contacts, such as the local coastguard or mountain rescue services, particularly if you’re camping in remote areas.
Staying at a well-established campsite like Rhosson Ganol means you’ll have easy access to help if needed, with nearby facilities and other campers around.
Conclusion
Camping in Pembrokeshire’s National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Wales. By choosing the right campsite, packing the essentials, and following eco-friendly guidelines, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip.