Ashbourne Woods

The scent of leaf mould and wild garlic rises from the woodland floor as shafts of morning light filter through the canopy above your pitch.

This is a straightforward Devon site that welcomes tents, campervans and caravans among the trees — ideal for families wanting a proper woodland camping experience without too much fuss, or couples seeking a quieter base to explore the South West's valleys and coastline. The tree cover means you're tucked into nature rather than lined up in rows, and there's something restorative about waking to birdsong instead of traffic. Devon's a generous county for day trips — moorland, beaches and market towns are all within striking distance depending on where you fancy pointing the car.

You've got toilets and showers onsite, which covers the basics, and it's worth asking about campfires when you arrive as policies can vary. The overall feel is peaceful and properly wooded rather than manicured — you're camping among the trees, not just near them.