Motorhome Parks In Emsworth, England -- Find Campgrounds
50.8478° N, 0.9370° W
Quick Overview
Emsworth sits on the Hampshire coast where ancient tidal mills once ground grain and smugglers slipped through creeks under moonlight. This historic harbor town on Chichester Harbour offers a quieter alternative to Portsmouth's bustle, with medieval streets leading down to working quays where fishing boats still land their catch. The town's position on the A259 coastal road makes it a strategic stop for exploring both Hampshire's countryside and West Sussex's South Downs.
The area maintains several motorhome campgrounds and caravan parks, with some offering free overnight stays. Most sites cater to touring caravans and motorhomes with full electrical hookups, though you won't find the massive holiday parks common elsewhere along the coast. The camping options here lean toward smaller, family-run operations that reflect the town's maritime character.
From your pitch, you're positioned to explore Chichester Harbour's network of creeks by kayak or small boat, walk the ancient Downs Link footpath, or catch the hourly train to Portsmouth for naval history at the Historic Dockyard. The town's Thursday market has operated for over 800 years, and the annual Emsworth Food Festival in September draws serious foodies from across the south coast. Stansted Park's Edwardian mansion and gardens lie just three miles inland, while Hayling Island's beaches stretch eastward for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Full-hookup seekers will appreciate the established caravan parks with heated facilities blocks and laundry services. Those preferring a more natural setting can explore farm sites on the South Downs' edges, though truly wild camping isn't permitted in this densely populated region. Most sites welcome well-behaved dogs, essential given the excellent coastal walking opportunities.
Visit between May and September for the warmest weather and longest days, though spring offers spectacular bluebell displays in nearby woodlands. Winter brings dramatic storm watching from the harbor walls and cozy pub evenings, but some seasonal sites close November through March. Check our listings below to find your ideal base for exploring this corner of historic Hampshire.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Emsworth
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All Dump Stations Near Emsworth
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chichester Club Site | 1.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Chichester Camping And Caravanning Club Site | 1.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Fleet Farm | 3.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Fishery Creek Touring Park | 4.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Portsmouth Truck Stop | 5.0 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Southsea Marina | 5.7 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Applegarth Camping And Caravaning. | 5.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Three Oaks Caravan Park | 6.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Bow Hill Farm - Caravan Park West Sussex | 6.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Bird Pond Nursery Caravan Site | 8.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Chichester Club Site
1.5 miChichester Camping And Caravanning Club Site
1.5 miFleet Farm
3.1 miFishery Creek Touring Park
4.5 miPortsmouth Truck Stop
5.0 miSouthsea Marina
5.7 miApplegarth Camping And Caravaning.
5.8 miThree Oaks Caravan Park
6.4 miBow Hill Farm - Caravan Park West Sussex
6.9 miBird Pond Nursery Caravan Site
8.5 miTraveling to Emsworth by RV
The A259 coastal road provides the main motorhome access to Emsworth, connecting eastward to Chichester (8 miles) and westward to Portsmouth (10 miles). This route offers harbor glimpses but includes several tight village centers, so larger motorhomes should consider the A27 trunk road running parallel inland. From London, take the A3 south to the A27 junction near Petersfield, then follow signs for Chichester and pick up the A259 coastal route.
RV drivers should note that Emsworth's historic town center has weight restrictions and narrow streets unsuitable for anything over 7.5 tonnes. Most campgrounds lie on the town's outskirts with dedicated caravan access roads. The nearest major fuel stop with motorhome-friendly pumps is the Shell station on the A259 just west of town, which also stocks basic camping supplies.
From the continent, Portsmouth's ferry terminals handle services from Le Havre, Caen, and St. Malo, making Emsworth an ideal first-night stop for European touring. The short drive from Portsmouth International Port avoids major urban traffic. Tesco Extra on Havant Road provides comprehensive provisioning with a large car park suitable for motorhomes, while smaller Waitrose in town center requires careful maneuvering for anything over 20 feet.
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Dump Station Costs in Emsworth
Nightly rates for motorhome sites around Emsworth typically range from £18-25 for basic pitches with electric hookup, rising to £35-45 for premium pitches with full services during peak summer months. The area's a portion% free camping options and a portion% paid sites reflect the developed nature of this coastal region, where land values limit free overnight opportunities.
Seasonal pricing peaks during school holidays, particularly July and August when rates can increase 40% over shoulder season prices. Many sites offer weekly discounts of 10-15% and some honor Caravan and Motorhome Club member rates. The Camping and Caravanning Club operates a nearby site with member discounts worth considering for extended stays.
Fuel costs run slightly above national averages due to the coastal location, though competition between several stations keeps prices reasonable. Tesco Extra offers competitive fuel prices with Clubcard points, while the independent stations sometimes match supermarket prices during price wars. Grocery costs align with southern England averages, with Waitrose premium pricing balanced by Tesco's value ranges.
Consider the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard annual pass if planning multiple visits, as single-day tickets cost £42 per adult. Many local attractions offer caravan park discount vouchers, so check reception desks for current deals.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Emsworth
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Best Time to Visit Emsworth by RV
Winter
December - February
35-45°F
Crowds: Low
Several seasonal sites close; book heated facilities blocks for comfort during stormy weather.
Spring
March - May
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Sites reopen with advance booking recommended; spectacular bluebells bloom in nearby South Downs woodlands.
Summer
June - August
60-75°F
Crowds: High
Peak season requires booking 6-8 weeks ahead; Cowes Week in August creates regional accommodation shortage.
Fall
September - November
50-65°F
Crowds: Medium
Food Festival in September draws crowds; pleasant weather continues through October with fewer booking pressures.
Explore the Emsworth Area
Book Caravan parks early during Cowes Week in August when sailing enthusiasts flood the entire Solent region, and sites fill rapidly. The best full-service option typically runs the heated amenities blocks year-round and accepts advance bookings through their own websites rather than third-party platforms.
For budget-conscious RVers, consider the Chichester District Council sites just outside town boundaries, which offer basic facilities at lower nightly rates. Wild camping isn't legal here, but several farm sites on the South Downs provide a more rustic experience with permission camping.
Emsworth's Thursday market creates parking challenges in the town center, so plan grocery runs for other days or use the Tesco Extra on the outskirts. The Coal Exchange pub serves excellent local fish and welcomes muddy walkers, while the Crown serves Sunday roasts worth booking ahead. For the best harbor photography, walk out to the Mill Pond at high tide during golden hour.
Dog owners should head straight to the Hayling Island coastal path, accessible via the road bridge, where dogs can run free on the beach east of the sailing club. The town's narrow streets and busy A259 make lead-walking essential in the urban areas.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Emsworth
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Emsworth?
The area's caravan parks focus on family-run operations with full electrical hookups and heated facilities blocks. Most sites welcome touring caravans and motorhomes year-round, though some seasonal sites close November through March. Check individual park websites for current availability and booking policies.
Is there free motorhome camping near Emsworth?
Free overnight parking isn't available in this developed coastal area, though some farm sites on the South Downs edges offer budget-friendly rates with basic facilities. Wild camping is prohibited throughout Hampshire, so advance booking at established sites is essential for legal overnight stays.
What is the best time of year to camp in Emsworth?
May through September offers the warmest weather and longest days, though spring brings spectacular bluebell displays in nearby woodlands. Avoid Cowes Week in August when accommodation becomes scarce and expensive throughout the Solent region, unless you're specifically interested in sailing events.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Emsworth?
Most established caravan parks provide electrical hookups and heated toilet blocks with hot showers, though full services including water and waste connections are less common than in larger holiday parks. Several sites offer laundry facilities and small shop provisions for extended stays.
Can I boondock near Emsworth?
Wild camping and wild camping aren't permitted in this densely populated coastal region of Hampshire. However, some farm sites on the South Downs provide a more rustic camping experience with basic facilities and permission-based overnight stays for self-contained RVs.
What activities are available from Emsworth Motorhome campgrounds?
Harbor kayaking, coastal walking, and cycling the Downs Link footpath rank among top activities accessible from your pitch. The town's Thursday market, Stansted Park gardens, and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard provide cultural attractions, while Hayling Island offers beach activities and water sports opportunities.
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Emsworth?
The area's caravan parks focus on family-run operations with full electrical hookups and heated facilities blocks. Most sites welcome touring caravans and motorhomes year-round, though some seasonal sites close November through March. Check individual park websites for current availability and booking policies.
Is there free motorhome camping near Emsworth?
Free overnight parking isn't available in this developed coastal area, though some farm sites on the South Downs edges offer budget-friendly rates with basic facilities. Wild camping is prohibited throughout Hampshire, so advance booking at established sites is essential for legal overnight stays.
What is the best time of year to camp in Emsworth?
May through September offers the warmest weather and longest days, though spring brings spectacular bluebell displays in nearby woodlands. Avoid Cowes Week in August when accommodation becomes scarce and expensive throughout the Solent region, unless you're specifically interested in sailing events.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Emsworth?
Most established caravan parks provide electrical hookups and heated toilet blocks with hot showers, though full services including water and waste connections are less common than in larger holiday parks. Several sites offer laundry facilities and small shop provisions for extended stays.
Can I boondock near Emsworth?
Wild camping and wild camping aren't permitted in this densely populated coastal region of Hampshire. However, some farm sites on the South Downs provide a more rustic camping experience with basic facilities and permission-based overnight stays for self-contained RVs.
What activities are available from Emsworth Motorhome campgrounds?
Harbor kayaking, coastal walking, and cycling the Downs Link footpath rank among top activities accessible from your pitch. The town's Thursday market, Stansted Park gardens, and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard provide cultural attractions, while Hayling Island offers beach activities and water sports opportunities.
All Dump Stations Near Emsworth (145)
RV ParkGraffham Camping & Caravanning Club
RV ParkSlindon Camping And Caravanning Club Site
RV ParkKeepers Lodge
RV ParkMellow Farm Campsite Reception
RV ParkHolden Farm
RV ParkSouthland Caravan And Motorhome Club Campsite
RV ParkSouthland Caravan Club Site
RV ParkThe Spinney Caravan Park
RV ParkWoodpecker Camping Field Tents, Caravans And Motorhomes Open April To End September
RV Park