What is Camp Quirky?
Set against the backdrop of Kelmarsh Hall Northamptonshire, Camp Quirky is an annual event where attendees come together to revel in the art of van conversion. Here, you’ll find a vibrant community of like-minded individuals who have poured their hearts and souls into crafting custom campervans that are as unique as the people behind them.
Throughout Camp Quirky, you can expect a diverse array of activities and workshops that cover everything from carpentry and solar panel installation to interior design and choosing the perfect base vehicle, as well as discussions on sustainable living and diversity within vanlife.
Beyond the hands-on workshops, Camp Quirky also features live music, delicious food, and a laid-back, inclusive atmosphere where attendees can swap stories, forge connections, and celebrate their shared love for adventure and craftsmanship.
Camp Quirky is not just an event; it’s a testament to the spirit of independence and the joy of life on the road. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own van conversion project or simply looking to immerse yourself in a community of fellow wanderers, Camp Quirky promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the beauty of handmade campervans and the freedom they represent.
Where did the idea come from?
Camp Quirky began in 2016 as an opportunity for Quirky Campers rental vans and owners to come together, swap stories, share tips and learn from each other. However, as van life began to grow in the UK, we recognised there was a huge appetite for something much bigger…
So, in 2018, we decided to go for it and open up the event to everyone interested in campervan culture: self-builders, professional converters, full time van dwellers, weekend road trippers, vanlife bloggers and as many of our gorgeous Quirky Campers that could make it. The result was a sell out event.
So, in 2018, we decided to go for it and open up the event to everyone interested in campervan culture: self-builders, professional converters, full time van dwellers, weekend road trippers, vanlife bloggers and as many of our gorgeous Quirky Campers that could make it. The result was a sell out event.
What happened next?
Back on track in 2022 after restrictions had lifted, we welcomed 1200 campervans, 3000 people, 500 dogs and 100’s of kids to Kelmarsh Estate in Northamptonshire. People were able to seek vanspiration at our converters village, find their zen at one of our morning yoga sessions, and dance the night away to incredible performers on our main stage. There were over 70 vanlife related workshops led by industry insiders & experienced vanlifers, covering a wide range of topics from making money on the road to how to install a 12v electric system. The feedback was amazing and it spurred us on to planning 2023!
Camp Quirky 2023 was another sell-out event, providing real self-build inspiration to those looking to begin their vanlife journey and encouragement for all to squeeze every drop out of this rewarding lifestyle by those who are already living it. This was also the first year that we introduced workshops discussing the future of Electric Campervans, and put increased focus on diversity within vanlife. It was a weekend of wholesomeness you’d never thought possible at an event this size and at the heart of it all, as always, was our wonderful community, gathered around campfires sharing stories or showcasing their own builds with passers-by in the camping field. This is what vanlife is all about.
