Camping on Brownsea Island in the middle of Poole Harbor in Dorset has been a tradition since the Boy Scouts first pitched their tents back in 1907, but now it’s possible to have a comfortable bed in a metal tent or stay in a new shepherd’s hut.
The National Trust campsite at Brownsea Island reopens on Friday 3 April 2026 in time for the Easter holidays, and campers will be able to pitch their tents until the end of September 2026.
The shepherd’s hut arrives in Brownsea in time for Easter
Tents in the trees
Although guests can bring their own tent, the island’s camping facilities can make it easy to stay in an original metal tent with a double bed.
For experienced travelers they can spend the night suspended between the trees in tents that can sleep two to three people, although staying in tree tents seems to be subject to wind conditions!
New for the 2026 season are the shepherds’ houses that had to be taken to the island by boat. They have double beds and a canvas kitchen to complete the ‘back to nature’ experience.
Tree tents for about three people but it will probably be fun!
Bring your own tent if you like
“An Unforgettable Place”
Director of holiday operations for the National Trust at Brownsea Island Georgia Simpkin said:
“Brownsea Camp offers an unforgettable location, with direct access to the beach and a network of beautiful woodlands and thermal areas that lead to incredible views.
“Nature surrounds you at all times, and it’s not uncommon to see the island’s famous red squirrels frolicking in the nearby trees. It’s a truly special place to switch off, explore and feel immersed in Brownsea’s natural beauty.”
A metal tent with a sea view
A real opportunity to relax without having to charge your phone by the bed!
A well stocked camp store
Campground facilities include hot showers and restrooms with accessible amenities.
There are drinking water taps, cooking shelters and a shop with plenty of tent supplies. To help lighten the burden that visitors have to carry on the island, cooking equipment is also available to borrow.
For those wishing to explore the harbor, The Watersports Academy runs two kayaking and paddleboarding sessions.
These guided tours introduce the basics of snorkeling while giving participants the best view of the island.
A new addition to the stable of lodging options
The cottages make for a great romantic weekend getaway
“A rare opportunity to slow down”
Georgia added:
“The team are really looking forward to welcoming the campers back and are excited about the new offering of the shepherd’s house. The campsite is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy nature while taking in the beautiful views across Poole Harbour.
“Since there is no traffic noise and it is quiet during the week, this island offers a rare opportunity to slow down, disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.”
A new concrete pier has been built at Sandbanks but work on the dock is ongoing
Work continues on the Sandbanks slipway
Currently the only public access to Brownsea Island is by ferry which operates from Poole Quay, however work is well underway to build a new Sandbanks ferry which will soon be able to provide easy access to the island for people from Purbeck.
In fact, the new ferry service between Sandbanks and Brownsea should be operational by summer but the National Trust says it is not making an announcement until it has a firm date for completing the slipway work.
A wonderful exhibition of wildlife photographs taken on Brownsea Island by M Brooke at Swanage Library
Brownsea without a cruise!
Brownsea Show in Swanage
In the meantime, anyone who can’t make it to Brownsea Island can visit an exhibition of Brownsea wildlife photographs at Swanage Library by the talented Dorset photographer M Brooke.
The amazing and detailed photographs which must have taken a lot of patience to take, will be on display until 4pm on Monday 20 April 2026.
The exhibit will be moved to the Wareham Library where it will be on display for another two weeks.
Brownsea Island which is part of the parish of Studland
Annual events on Brownsea Island 2026
- Passover route – March 28 to April 12, 10 am to 5 pm. Celebrate Easter with a fun forest adventure to discover the amazing bird life. There will be a clay modeling workshop at the visitor center over Easter weekend and a chocolate egg waiting at the end of the trail. Price: £3.50 each way (standard admission applies). Booking is not required.
- Walking with a wetland bird – 25th April and 23rd May, 10am to 12.30pm. Experience the birdlife of Brownsea Island with a birdwatching walk. Led by an experienced Dorset Wildlife Trust ranger, explore one of England’s top birdwatching spots, Brownsea Lagoon. Price: £37 per adult, £18 per child (all inclusive). A reservation is required.
- Guided history walk and cream tea at Brownsea Castle – 14 April, 21 April, 5 May, 19 May and 2 June, 1.30 pm to 5 pm. An interesting journey through the rich history of Brownsea Island to explore the island and the beautiful castle grounds. Price: £40 per adult (member) and £52 per adult (non-member). A reservation is required.
- Potassic process– 23rd to 31st May, 10am to 5pm. A unique and amazing way designed for animal drops. Enjoy different activities while learning amazing facts. Play cow pat Frisbee, roll the balls like a dung beetle, and try to figure out who it is. Cost: Free event (general admission applies). Booking is not required.
More information
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