Camping is an activity enjoyed by many in Somerset and the South West of England generally, with there being a huge range of quality sites for people to choose from.

For 2022 the strength of the region has been confirmed with outdoor accommodation specialist Pitchup.com finding that the South West of England came top in six user review rating categories, including Overall, Value for Money, Quality, Facilities and Child-Friendliness.

Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, said: “People looking for an autumn getaway that won’t break the bank should have a look at the incredible value accommodation on offer in the South West and in our other top regions, as rated by tens of thousands of our holidaymakers.

“Grass pitches can be as little as £6 per night, and as the weather gets colder there’s a host of other affordable alternatives such as shepherd’s huts, lodges, camping pods and cabins."

For those in Somerset looking for a quality camping trip that they don't have to travel too far for, here are five great options within the county.

5 best rated campsites in Somerset

The Lorax Patch

Location: Launcherley Rd, Wells BA5 3QB

Pitchup.com user rating: 9.9/10 (from 31 reviews)

This small off-grid farm campsite two miles from Wells has really captured the hearts of those who have stayed there.

The facilities on site are simple, with composting loos and a single hot shower, but the main selling point is the "freedom" that comes with the space.

You'll have a large area to pitch up away from others, and all spots come with their own firepit and picnic table.

If you truly want to relax this is the place to be, with a gentle steam nearby, as well as a footpath and cyclepath to nearby Wells if you fancy the day out.

The site also hosts a farm with fresh eggs, vegetables and fruit that regularly being available to guests.

Full information on the site can be found on the Pitchup.com page here.

Wimbleball Holidays

Location: South Greenslade Farm, Brompton Regis TA22 9NU

Pitchup.com user rating: 9.9/10 (from 56 reviews)

The site on a secluded family farm within Exmoor National Park has also earnt high praise from reviewers.

With direct access to a lake you can give a whole load of watersports a try, including kayaking, canoeing, rowing, sailing and windsurfing.

Walking, cycling, birdwatching and fishing are also popular picks if you fancied staying on dry land.

The site is on a working family farm and at certain times of year visitors are welcome to get involved with the running of it, with shearing to be done and lambs to be fed etc...

Full information on the site can be found on the Pitchup.com page here.

Station Farm

Location: Station Farm, Shapwick Rd, Westhay, Somerset BA6 9TT

Pitchup.com user rating: 9.9/10 (from 46 reviews)

Camping sites on farms seem to be quite well-regarded in Somerset, as Station Farm has also earnt a 9.9 rating on Pitchup.com.

It is seen as an ideal spot for wildlife lovers, as you are likely to spot all sorts of bird life, and there are several hides within a short walk for those who’d like to settle in for some serious spotting.

Children will be able to meet the farm animals also, including ponies, sheeps and pigs.

A river runs nearby the farm, which would be great for kayaking and paddleboarding, and there are several footpaths and bike routes across the reserves.

Full information on the site can be found on the Pitchup.com page here.

Somerset County Gazette: Several of Somerset's highest rated camping sites are located on farms (Canva)Several of Somerset's highest rated camping sites are located on farms (Canva) (Image: Canva)

The Hideout Camping and Caravan Park

Location: Stawell Road, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA7 9AU

Pitchup.com user rating: 9.9/10 (from 52 reviews)

Accommodating both tents and caravans the Hideout Camping and Caravan Park is located at a small site in the Somerset countryside.

The main aim of the site is to be there for "rest and relaxation" with the option to visit Glastonbury, Wells and Cheddar fairly nearby in a car.

It is an adult-only site and has several amenities such as separate ladies and gents’ blocks with ensuite shower room in each, sockets for electric razors, drinking water and a chemical disposal point.

Full information on the site can be found on the Pitchup.com page here.

Cheddar Bridge Touring Park

Location: Cheddar Bridge Park, Draycott Rd, Cheddar BS27 3RJ

Pitchup.com user rating: 9.8/10 (from 664 reviews)

Another peaceful and adults-only site can be found with the Cheddar Bridge Touring Park.

It overlooks the Mendip Hills and is described as "scenic" and "award-winning" with pretty flowers and the River Yeo flowing through it.

The site is a short walk from Cheddar village, Cheddar gorge and the sweeping Mendip Hills.

Full information on the site can be found on the Pitchup.com page here.