Camping in Pagham

Wild camping is illegal in England without the landowner's permission, so anyone wanting to camp near Pagham needs a proper site, and there are several within easy reach along this stretch of the West Sussex coast. The flat, low-lying terrain around Pagham Harbour and the surrounding villages of Sidlesham and Church Norton suits touring caravans and campervans particularly well, with a scattering of small, family-run touring and camping parks tucked among the farmland just inland from the shingle beaches. Expect a mix of grass touring pitches, static caravans and, increasingly, glamping options such as pods, bell tents and safari tents for those who want the outdoor feel without bringing their own kit.

The best camping season here runs from late spring through to early autumn, when the days are long enough to make the most of the harbour walks and the beach, and the ground is drier underfoot after winter's coastal weather. This part of the Sussex coast is exposed to onshore winds, so a pitch with some natural shelter, or a well-anchored awning, is worth seeking out outside the calmest summer weeks. Sea fishing, birdwatching and cycling the quiet lanes around the harbour are all easily done straight from a nearby campsite, and Bognor Regis and Chichester are both close enough for an evening out without a long drive back.

Because Pagham Harbour is a protected nature reserve, camping is not permitted on the reserve itself or on the beach and dunes, so it is worth checking a site's exact location before booking, particularly if direct harbour or sea views are important. Many of the touring parks in the area are geared towards a quieter, adults-welcome atmosphere as well as family pitches, so it is worth checking which suits your trip before you arrive.