Motorhome Parks In Chard, England -- Find Caravan Sites
50.8727° N, 2.9660° W
Quick Overview
Chard sits in the rolling countryside of Somerset, where green hills meet the edge of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This historic market town offers a peaceful base for exploring England's southwest, with ancient churches, traditional pubs, and walking trails that wind through some of the country's most scenic landscapes. The town itself dates back over a thousand years, and you'll find remnants of its past in the medieval streets and stone buildings that line the town center.
For motorhome camping, Chard provides several campgrounds and caravan parks that cater to motorhome travelers exploring this corner of Somerset. All several locations are paid facilities, offering the full service pitch and amenities that make extended stays comfortable. You won't find some free camping options here, but the paid sites typically include electric hookups, water access, and proper waste disposal facilities that make the investment worthwhile.
From your pitch in Chard, you're perfectly positioned to explore both the Somerset countryside and the nearby Dorset coast. Lyme Regis sits just 20 minutes south, where you can hunt for fossils along the Jurassic Coast. The historic city of Exeter lies 30 minutes east via the A30, offering cathedral visits and shopping. Closer to home, the Blackdown Hills provide excellent walking opportunities, with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints across the countryside. Cricket St Thomas Wildlife Park makes a great family day out, just 15 minutes north of town.
The camping scene here suits those who prefer established sites with proper facilities over wild camping adventures. Most parks offer spacious pitches that can accommodate larger rigs, though it's worth checking specific size restrictions when booking. Several sites feature touring pitches specifically designed for motorhomes and caravans, with level ground and easy access roads. The local caravan parks tend to be family-run operations that provide a more personal touch than large commercial chains.
Spring through early autumn offers the best weather for camping, with mild temperatures and longer daylight hours perfect for exploring the surrounding countryside. Summer brings the warmest weather but also peak tourist season, so booking ahead becomes essential. Winter camping is possible but expect cooler, wetter conditions typical of the English southwest.
Our listings below detail each of Chard's several motorhome-friendly locations, including specific amenities, pitch sizes, and seasonal availability to help you choose the right base for your Somerset adventure.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Chard
No rated stations yet. Be the first to leave a review!
All Dump Stations Near Chard
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Sea House Cl (Caravan And Motorhome Club Members Only) | 3.3 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Ilminster Caravan Club Site | 3.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Ilminster Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite | 3.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Hill Farm | 5.0 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Sunny Side Caravan & Camping Park | 6.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Silverhay Caravan And Motorhome Club Cl | 6.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Charmouth Club Site | 7.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Andrewshayes Holiday Park | 7.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Contact station |
| Caravan And Motor Home Club | 8.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Hook Farm Camping & Touring Park | 9.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Contact station |
Higher Sea House Cl (Caravan And Motorhome Club Members Only)
3.3 miIlminster Caravan Club Site
3.8 miIlminster Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
3.8 miHill Farm
5.0 miSunny Side Caravan & Camping Park
6.1 miSilverhay Caravan And Motorhome Club Cl
6.4 miCharmouth Club Site
7.6 miAndrewshayes Holiday Park
7.6 miCaravan And Motor Home Club
8.8 miHook Farm Camping & Touring Park
9.7 miTraveling to Chard by RV
Reaching Chard by motorhome involves navigating some of England's most scenic country roads, though the main routes are well-suited to Motorhome touring. The A30 provides the primary east-west corridor, connecting Chard to Exeter and the M5 motorway system. From London, take the M3 to the A303, then connect to the A30 – this route covers about 150 miles and avoids most height restrictions that plague smaller country lanes.
The A358 runs north-south through Chard, linking the town to Taunton and the M5 junction 25 in about 20 minutes. This makes an excellent approach route for those coming from the Midlands or North. The road handles large vehicles well, though you'll encounter some hills as you approach the Blackdown Hills area.
Be cautious on minor roads around Chard, as many feature narrow lanes with high hedgerows and limited passing places. The B3162 toward Lyme Regis is particularly challenging for larger rigs – stick to the A35 coastal route if you're planning beach visits. Local roads often have 7'6" bridge restrictions, so check your rig height before venturing off main routes.
For fuel and supplies, the Tesco Extra on Holyrood Street provides a large car park suitable for motorhomes, plus comprehensive grocery shopping. The Morrisons on Furnham Road offers another option with easier access for larger vehicles. Both locations stock camping essentials and fresh provisions for extended stays.
The nearest major motorhome dealer and service center sits in Taunton, about 25 minutes north via the A358. This proves handy for any mechanical issues or parts needs during your stay in the area.
Useful Links
Find additional dump stations near Chard
Browse RV parks and campgrounds in England
Helpful articles for RV travelers
Navigate to Chard,
National Weather Service forecast
Recreation.gov campground search
Find emergency medical care nearby
Find grocery shopping nearby
Dump Station Costs in Chard
motorhome camping costs in Chard reflect the area's position as a quieter alternative to coastal resorts, with nightly rates typically ranging from £18-35 depending on season and amenities. Budget-conscious travelers can expect to pay around £18-22 per night at basic sites with electric hookup, while premium locations with full facilities command £28-35 nightly during peak summer months.
Currently, a portion% of camping options in Chard are free, while a portion% charge fees – meaning all several locations require payment. This reflects the area's focus on established caravan parks rather than wild camping opportunities. However, the paid sites typically include electric hookups, clean facilities, and often Wi-Fi access that justify the cost.
Seasonal pricing varies significantly, with July and August commanding premium rates that can be 40-50% higher than shoulder season costs. Spring and autumn offer the best value, with many parks reducing rates while still providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Winter rates drop further, though some facilities may close or reduce services during the coldest months.
Membership discounts can provide substantial savings for frequent travelers. The Caravan and Motorhome Club offers reduced rates at affiliated sites, while Camping and Caravanning Club membership provides similar benefits. Many local parks also offer loyalty discounts for repeat visitors or extended stays of a week or more.
Fuel costs in Somerset tend to run slightly below national averages, particularly at supermarket stations. Grocery shopping at Tesco or Morrisons provides competitive pricing, while local farm shops offer premium produce at reasonable rates for those wanting to sample regional specialties during their stay.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Chard
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Best Time to Visit Chard by RV
Winter
December-February
35-45°F
Crowds: Low
Some parks close or reduce services. Wet weather common but mild temperatures. Book ahead as fewer sites operate.
Spring
March-May
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Excellent value with lower rates and pleasant weather. Wildflowers bloom in countryside. Most facilities fully operational.
Summer
June-August
55-70°F
Crowds: High
Peak season with highest rates and crowds. Book well ahead especially for July-August. Best weather for outdoor activities.
Fall
September-November
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Great value with autumn colors and harvest festivals. Rates drop after summer. Weather remains pleasant through October.
Explore the Chard Area
For the best motorhome camping experience in Chard, honestly the choice comes down to location preferences since all three parks offer solid amenities. Sites closer to town center provide easier walking access to shops and pubs, while those on the outskirts offer quieter settings with better countryside views. Most local parks accommodate rigs up to 8 meters, though it's worth confirming specific pitch dimensions when booking.
Boondockers won't find free camping options in the immediate Chard area, but several farm stays within 15 minutes offer basic overnight parking for a modest fee. The Blackdown Hills provide some wild camping opportunities for those with smaller, self-contained units, though always check with local landowners first.
The Guildhall Museum makes an excellent rainy day activity, showcasing Chard's history as a major lace-making center. For outdoor activities, the Chard Reservoir offers pleasant walking paths and fishing opportunities just outside town. The weekly market on Thursday brings local produce and crafts to the town center – perfect for stocking up on regional specialties.
Dining options include The Lordleaze Hotel for traditional pub meals and The George Hotel for more upscale dining. Both welcome muddy boots after countryside walks. Scrumpy's Cider Bar offers locally-produced ciders that showcase Somerset's apple-growing heritage.
Dog owners will appreciate the numerous public footpaths radiating from Chard, including sections of the Liberty Trail that provide excellent exercise opportunities. Most local pubs welcome well-behaved dogs, and the surrounding farmland offers plenty of space for off-lead running where permitted.
National Parks Nearby
Other Cities in England
RV Tips & Articles
Secure Your Site: A Guide to FootLoose RV Sewer Caps and Grip-N-Lock Well Caps
Read more →Understanding AASHTO M306, H20, and EN 124 Load Ratings: What They Really Mean for Manhole Covers
Read more →Anti-Tamper & Locking Solutions for Public Utility Access Points: Keeping Manholes Secure and Compliant
Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Chard
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Chard?
Chard offers three quality caravan parks, all providing electric hookups and clean facilities. The choice depends on your preferences – sites closer to town center offer easier walking access to shops and restaurants, while those on the outskirts provide quieter settings with better countryside views. Most accommodate rigs up to 8 meters length.
Is there free motorhome camping near Chard?
No free camping exists within Chard itself, as all three locations charge fees for overnight stays. However, several farm stays within 15 minutes offer basic overnight parking for modest fees, typically £10-15 per night. Some wild camping opportunities exist in the Blackdown Hills for smaller, self-contained units with landowner permission.
What is the best time of year to camp in Chard?
Spring and early autumn offer the best combination of pleasant weather and reasonable rates, with temperatures ranging 45-60°F and fewer crowds than summer. July-August provides warmest weather but highest costs and busiest campgrounds. Winter camping is possible but expect wet conditions and some reduced park services.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Chard?
Most Chard Caravan parks provide electric hookups and access to water points and dump stations, though full service pitch with individual sewer connections are less common in UK parks. All three locations offer clean toilet and shower blocks, waste disposal facilities, and electric connections suitable for extended stays with proper adapters for UK outlets.
Can I boondock near Chard?
Limited wild camping opportunities exist in the Blackdown Hills area for smaller, self-contained motorhomes, but always obtain landowner permission first. Most wild camping requires hiking access rather than vehicle access. Farm stays within 15 minutes offer basic overnight parking as an alternative to established parks.
What attractions can I visit from Chard campgrounds?
From Chard, you're 20 minutes from Lyme Regis and the Jurassic Coast for fossil hunting, 30 minutes from historic Exeter, and surrounded by Blackdown Hills walking trails. Cricket St Thomas Wildlife Park sits 15 minutes north, while local attractions include the Guildhall Museum and weekly Thursday market in town center.
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Chard?
Chard offers three quality caravan parks, all providing electric hookups and clean facilities. The choice depends on your preferences – sites closer to town center offer easier walking access to shops and restaurants, while those on the outskirts provide quieter settings with better countryside views. Most accommodate rigs up to 8 meters length.
Is there free motorhome camping near Chard?
No free camping exists within Chard itself, as all three locations charge fees for overnight stays. However, several farm stays within 15 minutes offer basic overnight parking for modest fees, typically £10-15 per night. Some wild camping opportunities exist in the Blackdown Hills for smaller, self-contained units with landowner permission.
What is the best time of year to camp in Chard?
Spring and early autumn offer the best combination of pleasant weather and reasonable rates, with temperatures ranging 45-60°F and fewer crowds than summer. July-August provides warmest weather but highest costs and busiest campgrounds. Winter camping is possible but expect wet conditions and some reduced park services.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Chard?
Most Chard Caravan parks provide electric hookups and access to water points and dump stations, though full service pitch with individual sewer connections are less common in UK parks. All three locations offer clean toilet and shower blocks, waste disposal facilities, and electric connections suitable for extended stays with proper adapters for UK outlets.
Can I boondock near Chard?
Limited wild camping opportunities exist in the Blackdown Hills area for smaller, self-contained motorhomes, but always obtain landowner permission first. Most wild camping requires hiking access rather than vehicle access. Farm stays within 15 minutes offer basic overnight parking as an alternative to established parks.
What attractions can I visit from Chard campgrounds?
From Chard, you're 20 minutes from Lyme Regis and the Jurassic Coast for fossil hunting, 30 minutes from historic Exeter, and surrounded by Blackdown Hills walking trails. Cricket St Thomas Wildlife Park sits 15 minutes north, while local attractions include the Guildhall Museum and weekly Thursday market in town center.
Are there free dump stations in Chard?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Chard.
All Dump Stations Near Chard (174)
RV ParkHome Farm Caravan Site
RV ParkStable View Caravan & Camping
RV ParkCherry Cottage Cl
RV ParkCourtbrook Farm Caravan Club Cl
RV ParkThe Caravan Club
RV ParkEast Fleet Farm Touring Park
RV ParkExeter Services - M5 (Moto)
RV ParkBallards Acre, Caravan And Motorhome Club Site
RV ParkSpringfield Cl
RV Park