California Meadows is a traditional tent campsite on Priests Way above Swanage, on the Isle of Purbeck in Dorset, with open sea views across to the Needles and the Isle of Wight. The campsite sits in quiet countryside on the Jurassic Coast, a few minutes from dramatic cliffs and the South West Coast Path, with Durlston Country Park close by and the safe sandy beach at Swanage about a mile away. It was previously a working farm, where the barn once sheltered quarry ponies and sheep from the local Purbeck stone industry, and California Meadows now offers simple, traditional camping along with group and whole-field bookings for larger parties and events. This is a spot for campers who want space, sea views and easy coast-path walking rather than a site packed with facilities, so it will not suit anyone after hook-ups, hardstanding or a busy holiday park. The site opens for the main camping season and is closed over winter. Availability and pitches are confirmed directly with the owners by phone or text before arrival, so it is best to contact them ahead rather than turning up on spec.
California Meadows is on Priests Way, Swanage, Dorset (BH19 2RS), set above the town on the Isle of Purbeck. It has sea views towards the Needles and the Isle of Wight, sits close to the South West Coast Path and Durlston Country Park, and is about a mile from Swanage beach.
How do I book a pitch?
Bookings are arranged directly with the owners. You call or text ahead to confirm availability before arrival and before paying, rather than booking through an online system. This suits a simple, traditional campsite, so contact the site in advance rather than turning up without a reservation.
Can large groups camp here?
Yes, California Meadows takes group and whole-field bookings as well as individual pitches, which makes it a workable choice for larger parties and events. Because whole-field dates fill up, the owners ask groups to contact them as early as possible to confirm availability.
Is the campsite open all year?
No, California Meadows runs for the main camping season and is closed over winter. Because opening dates and availability change year to year, it is best to phone or text the owners ahead of your trip to check the site is open for your dates.
Is it close to the beach and coast path?
Yes, the safe sandy beach at Swanage is about a mile away, and the South West Coast Path runs close to the site near Durlston Country Park. Rocky coves and dramatic Purbeck cliffs are a short drive or walk from the campsite.
Things to do nearby
Beach nearby
Bike hire
Boat launch or mooring
Fishing
Golf
Horse riding
Indoor pool
Tennis
Watersports
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