Camping and fossil hunting might seem like two very different activities, but these pastimes can beautifully harmonize, especially in the UK’s Jurassic Coast, home to some of the country’s most extravagant campsites. Besides offering the allure of fresh air, campfires, and open spaces, these campsites also provide a unique experience – guided fossil hunting tours. The Jurassic Coast, spanning from East Devon to Dorset, is a fossil-hunter’s paradise, encompassing 185 million years of Earth’s history. It’s a place where you can literally hold history in your hands. In this guide, we will explore how you can locate campsites in the Jurassic Coast region that offer these unique guided tours.
Camping on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
The Jurassic Coast is a World Heritage Site that stretches 95 miles from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland Bay in Dorset. This coastline is world-renowned for its rich fossil deposits, making it a haven for geologists and palaeontologists. Lyme Regis and Charmouth, in particular, are renowned for their abundant fossils.
Campsites along this coast offer more than just a place to pitch your tent. They offer a chance to explore this unique and remarkable landscape, and many of them offer fossil hunting tours. One such site is the Golden Cap Holiday Park. Nestled in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, the park is just a short walk away from the beach, where the guided tours usually start.
Another great choice is the West Bay Holiday Park. This park is located near Bridport, making it an ideal base for exploring the Jurassic Coast. It offers fully guided fossil hunting tours, where experts share their knowledge of the region’s geological wonders.
The Charm of Charmouth
Charmouth is a charming coastal village in West Dorset, located at the heart of the Jurassic Coast. The village is famous for its rich fossil heritage, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. It’s also home to some lovely, family-friendly campsites that offer guided fossil hunting tours.
Wood Farm Caravan Park is one such campsite. It’s set in a beautiful countryside location, yet it’s just a short stroll away from Charmouth’s beach. The park offers guided walks along the beach, where you can discover and learn about the fossils that have been washed up on the shore.
Newlands Holiday Park is another great option. Located just outside Charmouth, this park offers a range of accommodation options and has its own on-site fossil hunting tours, where you can search for your own Jurassic treasures under the guidance of a trained expert.
Camping in Lyme Regis
Lyme Regis, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Dorset’, is a popular holiday destination and a prime location for fossil hunting on the Jurassic Coast. The town is home to several campsites that offer guided fossil hunting tours.
Charmouth Camping and Caravanning Club Site is just a short drive from Lyme Regis. The site offers a range of facilities, including potable water and family-friendly amenities. Fossil hunting tours start from the campsite, led by knowledgeable guides who can help you unearth some spectacular finds.
Another excellent campsite near Lyme Regis is the Monkton Wyld Farm. This family-friendly site offers a tranquil setting, surrounded by lush green countryside. The farm frequently hosts fossil hunting tours, led by local palaeontologists or geologists.
Isle of Wight Fossil Hunting Campsites
The Isle of Wight, though a little further afield, also offers excellent opportunities for fossil hunting. It’s particularly famous for its dinosaur fossils, earning it the nickname ‘Dinosaur Island’. Several campsites on the island offer guided fossil hunting tours.
Grange Farm is a campsite located on the island’s west coast. The farm offers guided fossil hunting tours along the beaches and cliffs, where you can find a variety of fossils, including those of dinosaurs.
Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park is another option on the Isle of Wight. This beachside park offers a range of accommodation options and facilities. They also organize fossil hunting expeditions, where you can uncover the island’s prehistoric past.
Remember, when fossil hunting, it’s important to respect the environment and follow any guidelines provided by the guides or park authorities. Happy fossil hunting!
South West Fossils: Adventures at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove
The South West of England, specifically spots like Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, are other must-visit locations for fossil enthusiasts. Well-known for their impressive rock formations and sea views, these areas are also rich in prehistoric treasures.
Durdle Door Holiday Park is a great choice for those wishing to explore this region’s geological wonders. The park is just minutes away from the iconic Durdle Door arch and beach, which provides a stunning backdrop for fossil hunting tours. The park’s facilities include potable water, campfires at night, and pet-friendly units. Glamping options are also available for those who prefer a bit more comfort during their camping experience.
On the other hand, you can opt for the Lulworth Cove Inn, a campsite nestled in the picturesque village of West Lulworth. They offer guided tours, where experienced guides will teach you how to find and identify fossils. After a day of exploring, you can relax by the campfire, enjoy the stunning sea views, and relish in the peace and tranquillity of your surroundings.
The Tranquil Jurassic Experience at Monkton Wyld Farm
Monkton Wyld Farm, located near Lyme Regis, offers a tranquil setting for your fossil hunting adventures. This campsite is perfect for families seeking a calm environment blended with the thrill of Jurassic exploration. The farm is surrounded by lush green countryside, spanning tens of acres, making it a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Here, you will not only enjoy the ample space for tents, but also the farm’s unique offerings. The campsite hosts regular fossil hunting tours for its residents, guided by local experts. These tours provide the chance to unearth fascinating prehistoric finds while learning about the area’s rich geological history.
Moreover, the farm ensures that all campers have a comfortable stay by providing amenities including potable water, dog-friendly units, and facilities for campfires at night. After a day of fossil hunting, nothing compares to roasting marshmallows by the fire under the stars.
Camping in the UK can be a truly unique experience, especially when combined with the thrill of fossil hunting. The UK’s Jurassic Coast and the Isle of Wight offer some of the best opportunities for this activity, with numerous campsites providing guided tours for their guests. From the bustling beaches of Lyme Regis to the tranquil settings of Monkton Wyld Farm, there’s a location to suit everyone’s preference.
So, pack your camping gear and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the UK’s Jurassic history. Remember to respect the environment during your fossil hunts by following all guidelines provided by the guides and park authorities. Most importantly, have fun on your journey through time, discovering the remnants of prehistoric creatures and holding history in your hands.
