Cornwall is one of the UK's greatest campervan destinations. With Atlantic coastline, hidden coves, moorland wilderness and some of the best surf in Europe, it draws campervans from across the country every season. But getting the most from a Cornwall campervan trip means being properly prepared — and properly equipped. This guide is written by the team at Newquay Camping Shop, Cornwall's specialist camping and campervan equipment retailer, based right here in the heart of the county.

Why Cornwall is the UK's Best Campervan County

Few places in the UK offer the variety Cornwall does. You can wake up to Atlantic surf at Fistral Beach, spend the afternoon exploring the Lizard Peninsula, and be parked up at a sheltered site near Bodmin Moor by evening. The mix of official campsites, Certificated Locations (CLs), and scenic touring routes makes Cornwall ideal for flexible campervan travel.

Cornwall's famous Atlantic weather — glorious sunshine one hour, blustery squalls the next — means the right shelter and kit isn't optional. It's the difference between a miserable trip and a memorable one.

Best Campervan Camping Areas in Cornwall

1. Newquay & the North Cornwall Coast
The heartland of Cornwall campervan culture. Fistral Beach, Watergate Bay, Mawgan Porth and Perranporth are all within easy reach. Sites fill fast in summer — book well ahead for July and August. And if you need last-minute kit, our showroom is right here in Newquay.

2. Sennen Cove & the Land's End Peninsula
Dramatic Atlantic views and a genuine sense of being at the edge of Britain. One of the most photographed stretches of Cornish coastline, and popular with surfers and walkers alike. Arrive midweek to find the best pitches.

3. The Lizard Peninsula
England's most southerly point — secluded CLs, sheltered coves, and the spectacular Kynance Cove. Quieter than the North Coast, with a different, wilder character.

4. Bodmin Moor
Wide open moorland, ancient granite tors, and a real sense of wilderness. Perfect for those who want to explore inland Cornwall and use the campervan as a true base camp.

5. The Roseland Peninsula
One of Cornwall's best-kept secrets. Stunning estuary scenery around St Mawes and Portscatho, quiet lanes, and excellent small sites away from the summer crowds.

Essential Kit for Campervan Camping in Cornwall

Cornwall's Atlantic climate is changeable year-round. The right gear means you can enjoy the outdoors whatever the weather throws at you.

Drive-Away Awnings — See Them in Our Cornwall Showroom

A drive-away awning transforms your campervan setup. Instead of living entirely inside the van, you get a proper sheltered living and storage area — invaluable on longer Cornwall stays when the weather turns or you simply want more space to spread out.

We stock a wide range of drive-away awnings at our Newquay showroom, where you can see them on display and get hands-on advice from our team on the right awning for your van, connection height, and how you camp in Cornwall.

Popular choices with Cornwall campers include:

• Vango Cove III Low Air Drive Away Awning 2026 — inflatable low drive away awning, ideal for low-roof campervans and VW-style vans
• Outdoor Revolution Cayman Low D/T Drive Away Awning 2026 — versatile double-tunnel poled awning, compatible with a wide range of campervans
• Vango Faros III Low Drive Away Awning — lightweight poled option, great for those wanting a simpler, easy-pitch setup
• Outdoor Revolution Cayman Air Drive Away Awning — inflatable low drive away awning with generous living space, perfect for longer Cornwall stays

Browse our full drive-away awnings collection or come in and see them in person.

Cool Boxes — Keep Food Fresh on Cornwall Trips

Longer Cornwall stays call for a reliable cool box. The Vango Glacier 47L Coolbox is a favourite for families, while the compact Vango Glacier 23L is ideal for couples touring the county.

Sleeping Comfort

Even in peak Cornish summer, nights can be cool — especially on exposed coastal sites. A quality self-inflating sleeping mat adds vital insulation and comfort. We stock a full range in our Newquay showroom.

Cornwall Campervan Tips from Our Newquay Team

• Book coastal sites early — North Cornwall sites sell out months ahead for July, August and bank holidays. Don't leave it to chance.
• Pack for all weather — Atlantic squalls arrive fast. A good drive-away awning and groundsheet setup means you stay comfortable whatever happens.
• Use CLs for flexibility — Camping and Caravanning Club Certificated Locations offer seclusion, lower prices and are often right on the Cornish coast.
• Watch the tides — if parking near beaches, always check tide times. Some popular spots near Newquay and Perranporth become inaccessible at high tide.
• Get your awning right before you come — come into our showroom before your trip and we'll help you match the right drive-away awning to your van. We'd far rather you leave with the right product than struggle on a Cornish clifftop campsite.

Visit Our Cornwall Showroom — Drive-Away Awnings on Display

We're not an online-only retailer. Newquay Camping Shop is a physical showroom in Cornwall, where you can see drive-away awnings set up, handle the fabrics, and speak to staff who genuinely use this kit in Cornwall's conditions.

Newquay Camping Shop
4 Bamber House, Victoria, Cornwall, PL26 8LQ
📞 01637 877619
Shop online 24/7 or visit us in store

Whether you're passing through on a touring trip, preparing for a long Cornwall stay, or looking to upgrade your campervan setup, we're here to help. We know Cornwall camping — because we live and work here.