Motorhome Campgrounds In South Molton, England -- Find Motorhome Parks
3.8333° S, 51.0167° E
Quick Overview
South Molton sits in the heart of North Devon, where rolling hills meet ancient market town charm and the Exmoor National Park spreads across your doorstep. This traditional English market town has been trading since medieval times, and its Georgian architecture creates a picture-perfect backdrop for exploring one of England's most scenic regions. The River Mole winds through the countryside here, and you're positioned perfectly between the dramatic coastline and the wild moorlands that make Devon famous.
The camping scene around South Molton includes several established campgrounds and caravan parks, with some offering free overnight stays. Most sites cater to touring caravans and motorhomes with full electric hookups, though you'll find some spots that welcome tent campers alongside RVs. The parks here tend to be family-run operations that have been welcoming visitors for decades, offering that authentic English countryside experience you can't get at corporate chains.
From your pitch near South Molton, you're within easy reach of Exmoor's heather-covered hills and ancient stone circles, while the North Devon coast lies just 20 minutes west. The town itself hosts a traditional market every Thursday and Saturday, where local farmers still bring their livestock and produce. Nearby attractions include the narrow-gauge Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, Quince Honey Farm, and countless footpaths that lead across moorland where Exmoor ponies graze freely. The South West Coast Path is accessible via a short drive to either Ilfracombe or Barnstaple.
Full-service caravan parks dominate the area, typically offering electric hookups, shower blocks, and laundry facilities that English caravanners expect. If you prefer a more natural setting, several farm-based sites provide basic facilities in stunning countryside locations. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the reasonable rates compared to Cornwall or the Cotswolds, though premium sites with heated facilities and play areas command higher prices.
Visit between May and September for the warmest weather and longest days, though spring brings spectacular wildflower displays across the moors. October can be beautiful with autumn colors, but expect shorter days and increased rainfall that's typical for this part of England.
Our listings below cover everything from basic farm sites to well-equipped holiday parks, helping you find the right base for exploring this corner of Devon.
Top Rated Dump Stations in South Molton
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All Dump Stations Near South Molton
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riverside Caravan Park | — | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Riverside Caravan Park | 4973.5 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Traveling to South Molton by RV
The A361 North Devon Link Road provides the main route into South Molton, connecting directly to the M5 motorway at Junction 27 near Tiverton. This dual carriageway handles large motorhomes and caravans without issues, though you'll encounter some steep sections as you climb into the Devon hills. The final approach into South Molton involves narrower B-roads that require careful navigation with wider rigs.
From London, expect a 3.5-hour drive via the M4 and M5, while travelers from the Midlands can reach South Molton in about 2.5 hours. The route through Exmoor on the A396 offers spectacular scenery but includes tight bends and steep gradients that challenge larger motorhomes. Stick to main routes if you're pulling a large caravan.
Fuel stops are available in South Molton itself, with a Tesco petrol station that can accommodate most RVs. For major supplies, the larger Tesco superstore in nearby Barnstaple offers better access for big rigs and more comprehensive shopping. Barnstaple also provides the nearest motorhome dealer and parts supplier if you need technical support.
Be aware that many Devon lanes are single-track with passing places, marked by local authorities but sometimes difficult to spot. Always check caravan site access routes before arrival, as some farm-based sites require navigation through particularly narrow country lanes that aren't suitable for large American-style RVs.
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Dump Station Costs in South Molton
Expect to pay £15-25 per night for a basic pitch with electric hookup at most South Molton area campgrounds, with premium sites charging £25-35 for pitches that include water and waste connections. Farm-based sites typically offer the best value at the lower end of this range, while holiday parks with swimming pools and entertainment facilities command premium pricing.
Free camping options are extremely limited, with a portion% of local sites offering free stays compared to a portion% that charge fees. This reflects England's more regulated camping environment where most overnight stays involve some cost, even at basic farm sites.
Seasonal pricing varies significantly, with July and August commanding peak rates that can be 50% higher than shoulder season prices. Easter holidays and half-term weeks also see price increases. Book early for summer visits, as the best-value sites fill up months in advance, especially those with direct moor access.
Club memberships like the Caravan and Motorhome Club or Camping and Caravanning Club provide discounts at affiliated sites, typically saving £2-5 per night. Some sites offer weekly rates that reduce daily costs. Local grocery shopping at Tesco or the Co-op in South Molton costs roughly the same as other parts of rural England, while fuel prices tend to be slightly higher than national averages in this rural area.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About South Molton
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Best Time to Visit South Molton by RV
Winter
December-February
35-45°F
Crowds: Low
Many sites close or reduce facilities. Heated washrooms essential. Beautiful but wet weather expected.
Spring
March-May
45-60°F
Crowds: Medium
Wildflower season on moors. Easter bookings fill quickly. Lambing restrictions may limit dog walking.
Summer
June-August
60-70°F
Crowds: High
Peak season pricing and crowds. Book months ahead. Longest days with sunset after 9pm.
Fall
September-November
50-65°F
Crowds: Medium
Beautiful autumn colors on Exmoor. Increasing rainfall but fewer crowds. Some sites close November.
Explore the South Molton Area
For the best all-around experience, choose a caravan site with good shower facilities since English weather can turn wet quickly, and having warm, clean washrooms makes all the difference. Many of the farm-based sites offer incredible value and authentic countryside views, but check their access roads first if you're driving a large motorhome.
Boondockers have limited options here since wild camping isn't permitted on Exmoor National Park land, and most private landowners don't allow overnight parking. Your best bet for budget camping is one of the basic farm sites that charge minimal fees for a field pitch with water access.
The Thursday and Saturday markets in South Molton are worth timing your visit around – you'll find local Devon cheeses, fresh produce, and sometimes local crafts. For dining, The George Hotel serves traditional pub food, while Marshford Organic Bakery offers excellent pasties and local specialties. Don't miss the cream teas at local farm shops.
Exmoor offers some of England's best stargazing since it's designated as a Dark Sky Reserve. Bring a telescope or binoculars for evening entertainment. The moors also provide excellent walking directly from many campgrounds, with well-marked bridleways suitable for dogs. Most sites welcome pets, but always check Exmoor's seasonal restrictions on dog walking during lambing season.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in South Molton
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in South Molton?
The area's campgrounds are primarily caravan parks with electric hookups and shower blocks, ranging from basic farm sites to well-equipped holiday parks. Most offer excellent access to Exmoor National Park and the North Devon countryside. Family-run operations typically provide the most authentic English camping experience with helpful local knowledge.
Is there free motorhome camping near South Molton?
Free camping options are extremely limited around South Molton, as wild camping isn't permitted on Exmoor National Park land and most private land is restricted. Your best budget option is basic farm sites that charge minimal fees for field pitches. Always obtain permission before parking overnight anywhere.
What is the best time of year to camp in South Molton?
May through September offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, with July and August being peak season. Spring brings spectacular wildflower displays across the moors, while early autumn provides beautiful colors with fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible but many facilities close and weather can be challenging.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in South Molton?
Most established caravan parks offer electric hookups as standard, with many providing water and waste disposal facilities. Full American-style hookups with sewer connections are less common, but most sites have chemical toilet disposal points and fresh water taps. Shower blocks and laundry facilities are typically shared.
Can I explore Exmoor National Park from South Molton campgrounds?
South Molton sits on the eastern edge of Exmoor National Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the moors, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastline. Many walking trails start directly from local campgrounds, and you're within easy driving distance of Lynton, Lynmouth, and the Valley of Rocks coastal formations.
What facilities should I expect at South Molton area campgrounds?
Most sites provide electric hookups, clean shower blocks, and chemical toilet disposal points as standard. Many include laundry facilities, small shops, and children's play areas. Farm-based sites offer more basic facilities but stunning countryside locations, while holiday parks may include swimming pools and entertainment facilities for families.
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in South Molton?
The area's campgrounds are primarily caravan parks with electric hookups and shower blocks, ranging from basic farm sites to well-equipped holiday parks. Most offer excellent access to Exmoor National Park and the North Devon countryside. Family-run operations typically provide the most authentic English camping experience with helpful local knowledge.
Is there free motorhome camping near South Molton?
Free camping options are extremely limited around South Molton, as wild camping isn't permitted on Exmoor National Park land and most private land is restricted. Your best budget option is basic farm sites that charge minimal fees for field pitches. Always obtain permission before parking overnight anywhere.
What is the best time of year to camp in South Molton?
May through September offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, with July and August being peak season. Spring brings spectacular wildflower displays across the moors, while early autumn provides beautiful colors with fewer crowds. Winter camping is possible but many facilities close and weather can be challenging.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in South Molton?
Most established caravan parks offer electric hookups as standard, with many providing water and waste disposal facilities. Full American-style hookups with sewer connections are less common, but most sites have chemical toilet disposal points and fresh water taps. Shower blocks and laundry facilities are typically shared.
Can I explore Exmoor National Park from South Molton campgrounds?
South Molton sits on the eastern edge of Exmoor National Park, making it an excellent base for exploring the moors, ancient woodlands, and dramatic coastline. Many walking trails start directly from local campgrounds, and you're within easy driving distance of Lynton, Lynmouth, and the Valley of Rocks coastal formations.
What facilities should I expect at South Molton area campgrounds?
Most sites provide electric hookups, clean shower blocks, and chemical toilet disposal points as standard. Many include laundry facilities, small shops, and children's play areas. Farm-based sites offer more basic facilities but stunning countryside locations, while holiday parks may include swimming pools and entertainment facilities for families.
