Cornwall’s wild, windswept coastline, secret coves and timeless fishing villages make it one of the UK’s most enchanting places for a campervan escape. From cliff-top Atlantic vistas and surf-ready beaches to sleepy harbours and ancient tin-mining relics, Cornwall is built for exploration, and a campervan is the perfect way to discover it. Coastal A-roads and ribbon-like lanes link iconic spots like St Ives and Land’s End with tucked-away gems you’ll only find by turning off the main route, while a thriving surf culture and rich history give every stop character.

This guide walks you through a flexible 7–10 day Cornwall campervan road trip itinerary that balances scenic drives, family-friendly stops, wild-camping options, and practical tips for parking, facilities and seasonal planning. Along the way, we’ll point out lesser-known bays, recommended campsites and detours that reward the curious traveller. Quirky Campers – local specialists in campervan hire and Cornish know-how- are the ideal partner for this adventure. Read on to map your perfect Cornish escape and get ready to park up, unwind and explore.

Cornwall Campervan Essentials

Best Times to Visit

Cornwall shines in every season, but each offers a different experience:

• Summer (July–August): Long days, warm seas and lively surf culture — but also peak crowds and high campsite demand.
  
• Spring (April–June): Wildflowers on the coast paths, quieter beaches and mild weather.
  
• Autumn (September–October): Warm seas, fewer tourists, and dramatic sunsets.
  
• Winter (November–March): Peaceful, atmospheric and budget-friendly, though some campsites and attractions close.
  

Driving & Parking

Cornish lanes are famously narrow and winding:

• Opt for a smaller or medium campervan for easier navigation.
  
• Use passing places courteously when meeting oncoming traffic.
  
• In hotspots like St Ives, Padstow and Newquay, parking is limited — head to designated campervan car parks.
  
• Always check for height restrictions and overnight bans.
  

Coastal Awareness

• Tide timetables are essential — beaches can disappear completely at high tide.
  
• Download a tide app or pick up a local timetable in surf shops and harbours.
  

Wild Camping Etiquette

• Wild camping is only legal with landowner permission.
  
• Councils actively enforce bans in many car parks.
  
• If permitted:
  
  • Arrive late and leave early.
    
  • Never light open fires.
    
  • Follow leave-no-trace principles and respect locals.
    

Campsite Booking Tips

• Book months in advance for high season, especially near beaches like Perranporth, Polzeath and Fistral.
  
• Smaller farm sites often have more flexibility and fewer crowds.
  
• Check facilities (hook-ups, showers, family amenities) before booking.
  

Essential Packing List for Cornwall

• Wetsuit & swim gear for spontaneous dips.
  
• Walking boots for rugged coastal paths.
  
• Coins for rural car parks.
  
• Tide timetable app for safe beach trips.
  
• Layered clothing & waterproofs for changeable weather.
  
• Windbreak – a Cornish beach staple.
  
• Surfboards, bodyboards or paddleboards if you’re keen to ride the waves.

The Ultimate Cornwall Campervan Route

This 7–10 day Cornwall campervan road trip itinerary loops around the county, combining dramatic clifftop drives, charming fishing villages, and tucked-away gems. It’s designed to be flexible — you can complete the whole route in ten days or adapt it into shorter segments for a weekend campervan trip in Cornwall. Here’s how to make the most of your Cornish adventure.

Starting Point: Northern Gateway (1–2 Days)

Most campervan journeys into Cornwall begin from the north, crossing the River Tamar into Bude — a laid-back surf town that makes a great first stop. Base yourself at Wooda Farm Holiday Park or Sandymouth Holiday Park, both offering sweeping coastal views and family-friendly facilities.

• What to see: Bude’s sandy beaches are perfect for your first swim or surf. Just down the coast, explore Tintagel Castle, forever tied to the legend of King Arthur. The dramatic clifftop ruins and Merlin’s Cave below set the tone for Cornwall’s mix of history and myth.
  
• Hidden gem: Drive to Crackington Haven, a small, quiet cove that feels worlds away from busier resorts. Ideal for a first taste of Cornwall’s tucked-away spots.
  

North Coast Adventures (2–3 Days)

From Bude, follow the coast road south through some of the best coastal routes in Cornwall. This stretch is a surfer’s paradise, home to golden beaches, bustling towns, and spectacular clifftop walks.

• Surf culture: Stop at Polzeath, a beginner-friendly surf hub with equipment hire right on the beach. Newquay, further south, is the UK’s surf capital, with world-class waves at Fistral Beach. Campervan-friendly sites include Treago Farm (near Crantock) and Watergate Bay Touring Park, both with easy beach access.
  
• Hidden coves: While the big-name beaches are buzzing, take time to discover tucked-away spots like Bedruthan Steps (dramatic sea stacks at low tide) or Porthtowan, where clifftop car parks offer incredible views.
  
• Foodie experiences: Refuel at one of Cornwall’s famed seafood shacks — Rick Stein’s fish and chips in Padstow is an iconic stop, but you’ll also find excellent crab sandwiches at harbour cafés along the way.
  
• Stay with a view: For ocean panoramas, Beacon Cottage Farm near St Agnes is a family-run site perched right on the coast path.
  

Far West Peninsula (2 Days)

The road narrows as you approach Cornwall’s far west — but this is where the county feels most wild and remote.

• Land’s End: The most westerly point of England may be touristy, but the rugged cliffs and Atlantic swell are unforgettable. Park up nearby and take the coastal walk to Sennen Cove, a postcard-perfect bay where campervans are welcome at Trevedra Farm Campsite.
  
• St Ives: A vibrant blend of art galleries, boutique shops and beaches. Park at Ayr Holiday Park, just a short walk from the town centre, for hassle-free exploring. Don’t miss the Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden.
  
• Ancient Cornwall: The moorland inland hides prehistoric stone circles and standing stones like Men-an-Tol and Lanyon Quoit. These atmospheric sites are easy to reach by campervan.
  
• Sunset magic: For one of the best sunset spots in Cornwall, head to Cape Cornwall, where you can watch the sun sink into the Atlantic from your campervan window.
  

South Coast Treasures (2–3 Days)

Turning east, the coastline softens into rolling hills, sheltered coves and lush gardens. This part of Cornwall feels more tranquil — perfect after the wild Atlantic cliffs.

• Fishing villages: Mevagissey and Polperro are postcard harbours with colourful cottages and narrow lanes. Parking can be tricky, so use the designated campervan parking outside the village and walk or shuttle in.
  
• Subtropical gardens: Cornwall’s mild climate nurtures exotic gardens like Trebah Garden near Falmouth and the world-famous Lost Gardens of Heligan. Both have parking and are great family-friendly stops.
  
• Rivers and creeks: Explore the Fowey Estuary or take the King Harry Ferry across the River Fal for a scenic shortcut. Campervan-friendly sites include Penhale Caravan & Camping Park (near Fowey) or Tencreek Holiday Park near Looe, offering family facilities and sea views.
  
• Overnight harbourside: Some harbours allow overnight campervan stays in designated bays. Always check local signage for Cornwall campervan parking rules before settling in.
  

Bodmin Moor Finale (1 Day)

Before heading home, detour inland to experience a completely different side of Cornwall.

• Wilderness & walking: Bodmin Moor offers windswept granite tors, wild ponies, and endless skies. Park up at Colliford Lake campsite or South Penquite Farm, both great bases for walking.
  
• Myth & legend: Explore Jamaica Inn, made famous by Daphne du Maurier, or seek out the mysterious Hurlers Stone Circles near Minions village.
  
• Stargazing: Bodmin Moor is a designated Dark Sky Landscape, making it one of the best places in the UK to watch the stars from your campervan.
  
• Peaceful finale: This quiet inland setting provides the perfect contrast to Cornwall’s bustling coast, giving you time to unwind before the drive home.
  

Flexible Itinerary Notes

• 7-day trip: Choose either the North Coast + Far West or South Coast + Bodmin Moor loop.
  
• 10-day trip: Complete the full circle, allowing plenty of time for detours and lazy beach days.
  
• Weekend break: Focus on North Cornwall campervan sites around Bude, Tintagel and Polzeath for a short but rewarding taste.

7-Day Cornwall Road Trip Itinerary 

Day-by-Day Itinerary

This 7-day Cornwall campervan itinerary is designed for a leisurely pace, think cliff-top picnics, seaside stops and spontaneous detours. Driving times are kept short so you can soak up the views without spending all day on the road.

Day 1: Bude & Tintagel (Arrival Day)

• Drive time: Exeter to Bude ~2 hours
  Kick off your adventure in Bude, where wide sandy beaches and tidal sea pools make for a refreshing first dip. Stroll along the canal or fuel up with fish and chips. In the afternoon, head south to Tintagel Castle, steeped in King Arthur legends. The cliffside views here are jaw-dropping.
  
• Stay: Wooda Farm Holiday Park (sea views, family-friendly facilities).
  
• Optional detour: History buffs can visit Boscastle Harbour, with its witchcraft museum and quaint village feel.
  

Day 2: Polzeath & Padstow

• Drive time: Bude to Polzeath ~1.5 hours
  Wake up to a Cornish sunrise and head down the coast. Spend the morning surfing or bodyboarding at Polzeath Beach, one of Cornwall’s most campervan-friendly surf spots. Later, wander into Padstow, a foodie heaven, and tuck into Rick Stein’s fish and chips or a Michelin-starred seafood feast.
  
• Stay: Southwinds Touring Park (panoramic sea views, peaceful vibe).
  
• Alternative route for foodies: Take the ferry to Rock for wine tasting at Camel Valley Vineyard.
  

Day 3: Newquay & Bedruthan Steps

• Drive time: Polzeath to Newquay ~1.5 hours
  Cruise along the coast to Newquay, the UK’s surf capital. Spend the day at Fistral Beach or try coasteering for an adrenaline kick. For something quieter, walk the clifftops at Bedruthan Steps – an iconic Cornish landmark at low tide.
  
• Stay: Treago Farm Campsite (set on a working farm, short walk to Crantock Beach).
  
• Alternative route for art lovers: Detour to St Agnes, a creative hub with galleries and a stunning cove.
  

Day 4: St Ives & Land’s End

• Drive time: Newquay to St Ives ~2 hours
  Settle into St Ives, a mix of golden beaches and world-class art. Visit the Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden before an evening wander along Porthmeor Beach. In the afternoon, drive out to Land’s End for dramatic cliff walks and Atlantic panoramas.
  
• Stay: Ayr Holiday Park (walking distance to St Ives, sea views).
  
• Alternative route for history lovers: Explore Men-an-Tol and Lanyon Quoit, mysterious ancient monuments just outside St Ives.
  

Day 5: Penzance & The Lizard

• Drive time: St Ives to The Lizard ~1.5 hours
  Head east to Penzance for a stroll along the promenade, then venture further south to The Lizard Peninsula, home to Kynance Cove, one of Cornwall’s most photogenic beaches. Expect turquoise seas, dramatic cliffs and winding paths.
  
• Stay: Henry’s Campsite, The Lizard (quirky, colourful, sea-view pitches).
  
• Optional foodie detour: Sample Cornish pasties in Helston, said to be the birthplace of this local classic.
  

Day 6: Mevagissey & Fowey

• Drive time: The Lizard to Mevagissey ~2 hours
  Swap rugged cliffs for the softer south coast. Explore the fishing village of Mevagissey with its narrow streets and working harbour. Later, head to Fowey, a literary town once home to Daphne du Maurier, perched on a beautiful estuary.
  
• Stay: Penhale Caravan & Camping Park (family-run, quiet countryside feel).
  
• Alternative route for garden lovers: Visit the nearby Lost Gardens of Heligan or Eden Project.
  

Day 7: Bodmin Moor & Departure

• Drive time: Fowey to Bodmin Moor ~1 hour
  Round off your trip with a complete contrast — the wild, open beauty of Bodmin Moor. Climb Rough Tor for sweeping views or explore Jamaica Inn, full of smuggling tales. As night falls, enjoy stargazing in one of the UK’s official Dark Sky Landscapes.
  
• Stay (final night option): South Penquite Farm (eco-friendly, spacious pitches, perfect for starry skies).
  

This 7-day itinerary blends Cornwall’s coastal icons, hidden coves, foodie stops and legendary sites, all at a relaxed campervan pace. Whether you’re chasing surf, art, history or sunsets, every day offers a new flavour of Cornwall, and plenty of chances to simply park up, brew a coffee, and watch the sea roll in.

Ready to Hit The Road? Check out Quirky Campers Cornwall Campervans For Hire!

Seasonal Variations

One of the joys of a Cornwall campervan road trip itinerary is that it works beautifully year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons.

Summer (June–August): Long, sunny days make summer perfect for beach-hopping and evening barbecues with sea views. It’s also festival season, highlights include Boardmasters in Newquay (surf and music), St Endellion Summer Festival (classical concerts), and village regattas along the south coast. Campsites near popular beaches like Polzeath or Perranporth book up months ahead, so plan early if you’re travelling in peak season.

Winter (November–March): Cornwall feels wild and atmospheric, with crashing waves and empty beaches. Some campsites close, but a surprising number of year-round sites stay open near larger towns like St Ives, Penzance and Newquay. Pack extra layers, waterproofs, and a flask of something warming, and enjoy the peace of clifftop walks without the summer crowds.

Shoulder seasons (April–June & September–October): These are many travellers’ favourite times to visit. The weather is often mild, gardens are in full bloom (spring) or glowing with autumn colour, and the sea is still warm in early autumn. Best of all, you’ll avoid the busiest crowds while still finding plenty of open attractions and campsites.

Whichever season you choose, Cornwall offers a different flavour of adventure, from vibrant summer surf culture to cosy winter stargazing on Bodmin Moor.

Best Campsites for Cornwall Road Trips

Campsite Name	Location (Town / Area)	Type	Facilities	Sea/Harbour Views	Approx. Distance to Nearest Beach
Wooda Farm Holiday Park	Bude	Coastal	Electric hook-up, Showers, Family-friendly	Yes	1 km
Sandymouth Holiday Park	Bude	Coastal	Showers, Family-friendly, Dog-friendly	Yes	0.5 km
Southwinds Touring Park	Polzeath	Coastal	Electric hook-up, Showers, Family-friendly	Yes	0.3 km
Treago Farm Campsite	Crantock / Newquay	Farm	Showers, Family-friendly, Dog-friendly	No	1 km
Ayr Holiday Park	St Ives	Coastal	Electric hook-up, Showers, Family-friendly	Yes	0.4 km
Henry’s Campsite	The Lizard	Coastal	Showers, Family-friendly	Yes	0.2 km
Penhale Caravan & Camping Park	Fowey	Inland	Electric hook-up, Showers, Family-friendly	No	2 km
South Penquite Farm	Bodmin Moor	Farm	Showers, Family-friendly, Dog-friendly	No	5 km
Trevedra Farm Campsite	Sennen / Land’s End	Farm	Showers, Family-friendly, Dog-friendly	Yes	0.8 km
Watergate Bay Touring Park	Newquay	Coastal	Electric hook-up, Showers, Family-friendly	Yes	0.1 km

Practical Tips For Your Cornish Escape

A successful Cornwall campervan adventure is all about the little details. Here are some practical pointers to make your trip smooth and stress-free.

Water refills: Many Cornwall campsites offer fresh water taps, but you’ll also find public refill stations at larger towns and harbours. Apps like Tap and Refill can help locate the nearest source. Keep a couple of collapsible water containers handy for flexibility.

Apps worth downloading:

• Magicseaweed or Surfline for up-to-date surf forecasts.
  
• EasyTide or a local tide timetable app to check beach safety and plan walks.
  
• Park4Night for spotting nearby campervan-friendly stops, from official sites to basic overnight options.
  

Local produce & farm shops: Skip the supermarkets and dive into Cornwall’s thriving local food scene. Farm shops are scattered across the county, offering everything from Cornish cheese and cider to fresh fish and veg. Look out for Trevaskis Farm near Hayle or Padstow Farm Shop, perfect for stocking up before a beach picnic.

Waste disposal: Respecting Cornwall’s environment is key. Most established campsites provide waste disposal facilities for both rubbish and chemical toilets. For day-trippers, many service stations and larger holiday parks allow paid waste drop-offs — always check in advance.

Beach access for campervans: Cornwall’s beaches are legendary, but parking isn’t always straightforward. Larger vans may struggle in small car parks, especially in fishing villages like Polperro or Mevagissey. Aim for designated campervan parking in bigger bays (Newquay, St Ives, Perranporth), or park outside villages and walk in. Avoid soft sand or grassy verges where you might get stuck.

With the right apps, a few insider tips and a focus on travelling lightly, you’ll enjoy Cornwall at its best and keep it beautiful for future campervan explorers.

A Campervan Guide to Cornwall’s Beaches

Beach / Cove Name	Location	Accessibility for Campervans	Tide Considerations	Nearby Facilities
Polzeath Beach	Polzeath	Yes – nearby campervan car parks	Safe for swimming at mid to high tide	Toilets, cafes, surf hire
Fistral Beach	Newquay	Yes – designated campervan parking	Check tide for surfing zones	Toilets, cafes, surf schools
Bedruthan Steps	Near Mawgan Porth	Limited – parking at top of cliffs	Low tide reveals dramatic sea stacks	Toilets at nearby car park
Crackington Haven	Near Bude	Yes – small laybys nearby	Rocky at high tide	Small café, public toilets
Kynance Cove	The Lizard	No – steep access, walk from car park	Accessible only at low tide	Toilets at nearby car park, seasonal café
Sennen Cove	Land’s End	Yes – parking available nearby	Swimming safe at low tide	Toilets, cafés, surf hire
Mevagissey Beach	Mevagissey	Limited – park outside village	Best at low tide	Toilets, cafés, shops
Porthcurno Beach	Porthcurno	Yes – nearby parking	Low tide safest for walks	Toilets, café, parking
Polperro Harbour Beach	Polperro	Low tide is safest for walks	No – park outside the village, walk in	Toilets, pubs, shops
St Ives Harbour Beach	St Ives	Yes – town parking nearby	Safe for swimming at mid tide	Toilets, cafés, shops

Why Road Trips Are Best by Campervan

There’s something uniquely magical about exploring Cornwall by campervan. Unlike traditional holidays, where you’re tied to a single hotel or fixed schedule, a campervan gives you freedom on four wheels. Wake up to ocean views one morning, chase a hidden cove the next, and detour inland when curiosity strikes, all without unpacking a suitcase.

Cornwall in particular, was made for campervans. Its coastal roads wind past dramatic cliffs, surf beaches and fishing harbours, often with scenic laybys or cliff-top car parks perfectly placed for a picnic stop. Instead of worrying about check-in times, you can slow down and let the tides, sunsets and local discoveries shape your days.

Practicality is another win: your van is both your transport and your accommodation. Need a cup of tea after a chilly surf? Pop the kettle on. Fancy a spontaneous beach BBQ? Everything’s already in your kitchen. Travelling with kids or dogs becomes easier too, with home comforts always within reach.

And then there’s the sense of adventure. Campervanning taps into that road trip romance, the joy of following a hand-painted sign to a farm shop, taking the “long way round” just to see what’s there, or parking up under the stars on Bodmin Moor. It’s travel at your pace, your way.

With a Quirky Camper, you also get a van that’s as unique as the journey itself, handcrafted interiors, clever layouts, and all the charm that makes your holiday feel extra special. A Cornwall campervan road trip isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the freedom, flexibility and unforgettable moments you’ll find along the way.

Ready for Your Cornwall Campervan Adventure?

From wild Atlantic surf breaks and hidden coves to storybook fishing villages, subtropical gardens and starlit nights on Bodmin Moor, Cornwall packs an incredible variety of experiences into one small peninsula. The beauty of a campervan road trip is that you do not have to rush. You can let the tides, sunsets and your own curiosity guide the journey. Whether you are chasing waves, sampling seafood or wandering ancient stone circles, every mile brings a new discovery.

If you are feeling inspired, browse Quirky Campers’ Cornwall-ready vehicles, each one lovingly designed and kitted out for comfort, charm and adventure. From compact vans perfect for narrow Cornish lanes to family-friendly homes on wheels, there is something to suit every style of traveller.

So pack your wetsuit, lace up your walking boots and take the scenic route. Cornwall is waiting, and the best way to explore it is slowly, one winding lane at a time.

Cornwall FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wild camp in Cornwall?

Wild camping in Cornwall is generally not allowed without landowner permission. Some councils have overnight bans in car parks, and camping on beaches or private land without consent can result in fines. Instead, use certified campsites, farm sites or officially designated campervan stops. Always follow leave-no-trace principles.

Where can I park a campervan in Cornwall?

Parking options vary depending on the location. In popular towns like St Ives, Padstow or Newquay, use designated campervan car parks. Many campsites offer pitches with easy access to towns and beaches. Apps such as Park4Night can help locate official and recommended campervan parking spots.

Are Cornwall roads suitable for large campervans?

Many coastal lanes are narrow, winding, and lined with high hedges. Medium-sized or compact campervans are easier to navigate, though larger vans can manage main roads with care. Some sites in remote areas may require smaller vehicles. Always check campsite access and local road restrictions before travelling.

When is the best time to visit Cornwall?

Late spring to early autumn (April to October) offers mild weather, longer daylight hours, and open attractions. Summer is busiest with high demand for campsites. Shoulder seasons provide fewer crowds, quieter beaches, and often lower rates. Winter is quieter but some campsites and attractions may close.

Do I need to book campsites in advance?

Yes, especially during peak season (July and August) or near popular beaches and towns. Smaller farm sites may offer more flexibility, but booking in advance ensures you secure pitches with facilities like electric hook-ups or sea views.

What are some family-friendly activities in Cornwall?

Families can enjoy beaches with safe swimming zones, coastal walks suitable for children, surf lessons, wildlife parks, boat trips, and attractions like the Eden Project or the Lost Gardens of Heligan. Many campsites also provide playgrounds and family-friendly amenities.

Which apps are useful for campervan travel in Cornwall?

Recommended apps include Magicseaweed or Surfline for surf conditions, EasyTide for tide times, Park4Night for campervan parking spots, and Google Maps for route planning. Local tourism apps can also highlight festivals, markets, and hidden spots.

What should I pack for a Cornwall campervan trip?

Pack layered clothing, waterproofs, walking boots, swimwear and wetsuits for spontaneous beach visits. Bring a windbreak for beaches, collapsible water containers, and reusable bags for local farm shops. Don’t forget chargers, a first aid kit, and tide apps for safe coastal exploration.

Can I bring pets in campervans?

Many Quirky Campers vehicles are pet-friendly. Check the vehicle description before booking and bring bedding, food, and leads. Some campsites allow dogs on leads, but beaches and nature reserves may have seasonal restrictions.

Are there food and shopping options along the route?

Yes, Cornwall has farm shops, markets, and local producers selling fresh seafood, cheese, cider, and vegetables. Towns like Padstow, Fowey, and St Ives have excellent cafes and restaurants. Campervan travellers can stock up at farm shops before heading to more remote locations.

Are there any safety considerations for coastal campervan travel?

Always check tide times, avoid soft sand or unstable cliff-top parking, and respect local signage. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, especially in winter or during storms, and drive carefully on narrow lanes.

How long should a Cornwall campervan trip last?

A full 7–10 day itinerary allows you to explore north and south coasts, hidden coves, and inland sites at a relaxed pace. Weekend trips of 2–3 days are possible by focusing on North Cornwall or the St Ives–Land’s End area.

Where Can I Hire A Campervan in Cornwall?

From Quirky Campers! We have a full range of campervans for hire from family-friendly campers to pet-friendly campers. Whether you need a heater or an indoor shower, the perfect campervan for you is just a click away.