Thinking of camping near Bristol? Find adventure, nature, and family time, only 30 minutes from the city!

If you’re craving a break from the urban scene but don’t want the hassle of a long drive, weekend camping near Bristol is the perfect solution. It’s your chance to swap screens for scenery, reconnect with the kids, and enjoy a microadventure that feels miles away.

A family of 3 stands together next to their tent at a family campsite near Bristol. They are all smiling, and have camp chairs and a folding table set up around the tent entrance. There’s a campfire pit on the ground behind them, and other tents are pitched further back.

Summary

  • Weekend camping near Bristol offers quick, affordable family escapes surrounded by nature and adventure.
  • Mendip Basecamp is only a 30-minute drive from South Bristol and provides easy access to outdoor activities, local attractions, and family-friendly facilities.
  • Microadventures make it simple for busy families to reconnect outdoors and create lasting memories close to home.

Table of Contents

What’s a Microadventure?

Microadventures are short, local escapes that fit into everyday life. Popularised by British adventurer Alastair Humphreys, these little getaways are all about small, achievable outdoor adventures that anyone can do.

You don’t need to travel far or spend a fortune! A microadventure can be as simple as pitching a tent, cooking outdoors, and waking up to birdsong instead of the alarm clock. It’s small and achievable, perfect for normal people living busy lives.

How Does a Family Microadventure Work?

It’s pretty simple, really. Just pick somewhere nearby, perhaps 30-90 minutes’ drive from where you live, and find a campsite! You’re only there for a night or two, so everyone can pack light, keep cooking to a minimum, and immerse yourselves in nature for a couple of days.

Why Choose Camping Near Bristol?

Camping near Bristol gives you all the benefits of a countryside escape without the long journey. Mendip Basecamp, located in Churchill, is a fantastic family campsite for a cheeky weekend microadventure.

A father holds his daughter’s hand for balance as she has a go at a free circus skills activity at Basecamp Family Campsite near Bristol. She is concentrating on pedalling while her father supports her with one hand and holds another child in his other arm.

Here’s Why Families Love Camping at Basecamp:

  • Easy to reach: Basecamp is only 30 minutes from South Bristol, just off the A38, so no motorway stress.
  • Affordable: Great value compared to hotels, holiday lets, or festivals.
  • Family-friendly: Plenty of space to play, explore and unwind. Plus, free entertainment!
  • Close to nature: Perched in the Mendip Hills, with gorgeous views, woodland walks, and starlit skies.
  • Nearby Mendip Activity Centre offers over 20 bookable adventure activities like Rock Climbing, Axe Throwing, Kayaking, and more.

“Cannot recommend enough! My family and I had an amazing time here. Really authentic camping. You really feel like you’re in the great outdoors and having the fire pits makes it feel even more so. The staff are amazing and go out of their way to make you feel welcome! Great for the kids with the sandpit and play area in the tent.” – Jenc85

Discover Basecamp Here

Camping Near Bristol: Build Your Perfect Weekend Itinerary

Here’s a simple plan for a 2-day family camping microadventure near Bristol:

  • Friday: Check in to Mendip Basecamp, dance to live music in the evening
  • Saturday morning: Explore Cheddar Gorge
  • Saturday afternoon: Try Rock Climbing in Mendip’s private Rock Sports quarry
  • Saturday evening: Toast marshmallows on the campfire and watch the stars come out
  • Sunday morning: Try an Archery or Air Rifle taster session
  • Sunday afternoon: Check out when you like and have a picnic at Chew Valley Lake

You’ll be surprised how much you can fit into a weekend and still come away feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Mendip Mini Fests

Discover nature and outdoor adventures during the day, and watch the sun set as you dance away the evenings to live music! Throughout the summer holidays at Basecamp, these family-friendly festival-style weekends feature local musicians, free children’s activities, yoga and more – all included in the regular weekend camping rate.

Find Out More Here
A view of the teepee area at Mendip Basecamp, decorated with flags and bunting, looking towards the setting sun. People are watching musicians play on a converted horsebox set up as a music stage. Some are relaxing on blankets on the ground, others are standing together chatting, and some are dancing to the music.

“Lovely weekend. All the entertainment was excellent and enjoyed by our 9 year old (and us). The astronomy dome was great and Simon who ran it was very engaging. Being close to the skiing was great. Woodland walks were lovely and very good for de-stressing. A lovely weekend.” – David G.

Escape Bristol for New Summer Adventures

Summer weekends are packed with local events and loads of opportunities to check out the places you’ve always wanted to see. With Cheddar Gorge, The Strawberry Line, and loads of nature reserves and local attractions only a stone’s throw (or bike ride!) away, you can spend more time adventuring and less time driving when you stay at Basecamp.

Check out these websites to help plan your family microadventure near Bristol:

Tips for a Stress-Free Weekend Camping Trip Near Bristol

  • Book any activities in advance
  • Plan simple meals like a BBQ, wraps, or one-pot dinners like pasta (or get a pizza from the Pavilion)
  • Make a couple of backup plans in case of a change of weather or mood
  • Don’t forget the marshmallows!

“Excellent one stop shop for camping and adventure activity. One of the cleanest campsites around, great washing and showering facilities. Staff are friendly and there are lots of free activities if you’re on a budget.” – Wayne A.

Family Camping Packing Ideas

As you’re only away for a night or two, you can pack light and spend more time relaxing in nature. However, here are some essentials that are always good to bring on a family camping trip:

  • Tent (or book a bell tent or safari tent)
  • Sleeping bags, blankets, pillows
  • Torches
  • Comfy walking shoes
  • Waterproofs
  • Sun hats
  • Sun cream
  • Warm layers for the evening
  • 1 or 2 games, like ball games and a deck of cards
  • Easy, grab-and-go snacks
  • Refillable waterbottles
A child grins excitedly as he paddles his kayak down the Yeo River in North Somerset, on a little microadventure near Bristol. He is wearing a red buoyancy aid and blue helmet.

Ready for a Microadventure Near Bristol?

You don’t need weeks of planning or a long drive to make memories outdoors. Weekend camping near Bristol is easy, affordable, and full of possibilities. Whether you’re exploring the Mendip Hills, visiting local attractions, or simply taking your time around the campfire, a family camping holiday is a brilliant way to get out of the city.

Book Your Camping Trip Near Bristol Here

Camping Near Bristol FAQ

How far is camping near Bristol?
Most family campsites in the Mendip Hills, like Mendip Basecamp, are less than an hour’s drive from Bristol, perfect for quick weekend getaways without motorway stress.

Where is Basecamp located?
Mendip Basecamp is located in Churchill, North Somerset, approximately 16 miles from the centre of Bristol. It’s easy to get to, just off the A38 and close to Junction 21 of the M5.

Do we need to book camping or activities in advance?
Yes, it’s best to book your camping pitch and any adventure activities ahead of time, especially during school holidays or Mini Fest weekends.

Are there activities for children?
Absolutely! Mendip Basecamp offers free kids’ activities and nearby bookable adventure sessions like Rock Climbing, Archery, and Kayaking at Mendip Activity Centre.

Is it suitable for beginners or first‑time campers?
Definitely, Basecamp’s facilities are clean and family‑friendly, and staff help newcomers feel at home.

What should we pack for a weekend microadventure?
Keep it simple: torches, comfy shoes, waterproofs, warm layers, sun cream, basic cookery items, and a few easy snacks. Don’t forget the marshmallows!

Are dogs welcome?
Well‑behaved dogs on leads are welcome at most family campsites, including Basecamp. Please check before you book.

What can we do nearby?
Explore Cheddar Gorge, walk the Mendip Hills, birdwatch at Chew Valley Lake, or join a Mendip Mini Fest for live music, free activities, workshops and more. And they’re all less than an hour’s drive from Bristol!

Where can we find more ideas for family adventures?
Check out Visit Somerset, Discover Cheddar, and the Mendip Hills National Landscape for local attractions and walking routes.