Ashurst Campsite

This campsite sits on the edge of Ashurst with spacious pitches for tents, touring caravans and trailer tents, a mix of flat grassy ground and shaded areas beneath ancient oak trees, plus hardstanding and seasonal pitches. It is an easy choice for families and people new to camping, with direct walking access into the forest from the site and pubs, cafes and shops within walking distance in the village (those are nearby businesses, not on-site services).

Expect an open, relaxed campground feel with woodland edges and forest tracks close at hand. Visitors regularly mention clean toilets and showers, helpful staff and a friendly atmosphere, and ponies and other animals moving around the area. Pitches are not allocated, so the character of your stay depends partly on who sets up nearby: sunny weekends and larger family or friend groups can feel sociable and lively rather than quiet.

The site is roughly 2.5 miles northeast of Lyndhurst on the A35, signposted on the left just after the New Forest Pub as you pass through Ashurst village. Ashurst New Forest station is about a five-minute walk away and buses stop less than five minutes from the site, so arriving without a car is genuinely straightforward. The railway line runs close by: some campers notice passing trains, others barely register them.

Dogs are not allowed at this campsite, a restriction in place to protect ground-nesting birds, so plan alternative arrangements before you book. Ponies and other free-roaming animals are unpredictable and can bite or kick, so do not feed, pet or approach them, and keep all food sealed and out of reach in your tent, awning or vehicle.

If you want to barbecue, bring a robust barbecue that stands raised off the forest floor and use it for cooking only; disposable barbecues are discouraged. Away from campsites, barbecues are not permitted anywhere in the wider forest, so keep cooking to your pitch.