Camper Vans
Discover flexible pitches for your van life adventures
Welcome to South Lytchett Manor, where camper van holidays combine freedom with comfort in the heart of Dorset countryside. Just three miles from Poole, our award-winning park offers flexible pitches and modern facilities for van life enthusiasts seeking both spontaneity and convenience.
We’ve earned recognition as “Campsite of the Year 2021-22” by the AA. Our flexible pitch options, excellent amenities and prime location make us the natural choice for camper van travellers exploring Dorset’s coast and countryside. Whether you’re embracing weekend van adventures or living the full-time van life dream, our carefully designed site provides everything needed for memorable Dorset experiences.
Your camper van experience
Rolling parkland meets outstanding hospitality at one of Dorset’s most celebrated parks. Our award-winning site combines the spontaneity of camper van travel with facilities that consistently earn industry recognition.
Each pitch type serves different van styles and travel preferences. From fully-serviced hardstanding for larger expedition vehicles to spacious grass pitches for weekend warriors, we accommodate every van life approach whilst maintaining the standards that earned our AA recognition.
Perfect for:
- Van life enthusiasts seeking quality facilities with countryside atmosphere
- Weekend warriors wanting comfortable base camps for Dorset exploration
- Families embracing van travel with convenient location benefits
- Solo travellers needing secure well-equipped sites for confident adventures
- Camper van dogs seeking top-notch pet-friendly facilities
Key advantages:
- Award-winning status as “Campsite of the Year 2021-22” by the AA and Best for motorhomes and pets and regional winner of Top 100 Sites voted for by Practical Motorhome readers.
- Flexible pitch options accommodating all van sizes from compact to expedition vehicles
- Modern facilities maintained to excellent standards throughout each day
- Close to Poole Port for those seeking a stop off before onward adventures in the Channel Islands and France
- Historic Manor House grounds providing natural beauty and peaceful setting
- Ideal base for exploring Jurassic Coast World Heritage sites and Dorset attractions
- Bus services from the park gates, meaning you can explore without moving your van
Flexible pitches for all van types
Choose your ideal van pitch from our thoughtfully designed areas. We accommodate every van style and size from compact city vans to large expedition vehicles requiring maximum space and comprehensive services.
Camper van pitches and facilities at a glance
Deluxe fully-serviced hardstanding pitches:
Experience van life comfort with our premium hardstanding pitches, designed for travellers who appreciate the highest standards during their Dorset adventures.
- Individual hardstanding areas ensuring stable level positioning for all van types
- Complete service package including electric hook-up, fresh water and grey waste drainage
- Individual picnic benches providing dedicated alfresco outdoor dining and relaxation space
- TV hook-up ensuring entertainment options during quieter moments
- Premium positioning within our most scenic parkland areas
- Ideal for larger expedition vans requiring comprehensive services
Superior electric pitches:
Combine van life flexibility with modern convenience through our superior pitches. Choose between grass or hardstanding surfaces to suit your van specifications.
- Choice between grass and hardstanding surfaces accommodating different van types
- Reliable 10-amp electric hook-up ensuring power for all van systems and appliances
- TV connection on each pitch
- Accommodates vans of all sizes including high-top and extended wheelbase models
- Strategic positioning balancing convenience with peaceful parkland environment
- Excellent value whilst maintaining high standards of space and service
Large super electric grass pitches:
Designed specifically for larger vans and families requiring maximum space, these grass pitches provide exceptional room for vehicles, awnings and outdoor van life activities.
- Extra-large grass areas accommodating vans and awnings
- Generous spacing provides privacy and comfort for extended stays
- Electric hook-up included, ensuring reliable power for all van life needs
- Ideal for families with children requiring a safe outdoor play space adjacent to vehicles
- Premium positioning within our most attractive parkland settings
Standard non-electric grass pitches:
Embrace traditional van life values with our spacious grass pitches. Ideal for self-sufficient travellers who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences with excellent facility access nearby.
- Large and medium-sized grass pitches providing comfortable camper van positioning
- Positioned within our peaceful touring fields
- Traditional touring atmosphere whilst maintaining easy access to modern facilities
- Excellent value option for longer-stay holidays
Pitch specifications:
- Suitable for: All camper van types from compact city vans to large expedition vehicles
- Whilst we are able to accept long vehicles, we do have ornate gates as you approach our park. The gates are 3.8m high and at their narrowest point measure 2.82m width.
- Check-in: From 12:00 noon
- Check-out: 11:00 AM
- Location: 3 miles from Poole, 20 minutes from Bournemouth
- Pet-friendly: Dogs welcome by arrangement. An additional charge of £2.50 per dog per night applies. A maximum of 3 dogs per pitch.
- Awning and gazebo charges apply
- Accessibility: Level access suitable for all van types including low-profile vehicles
Seasonal van life comfort
Our pitches welcome camper vans throughout the year. Each season brings distinct character and different reasons to visit Dorset’s beautiful countryside and coastline.
Spring and Summer
Extended daylight hours are ideal for outdoor van life activities. Warm evenings suit awning dining and socialising. Fresh coastal breezes provide natural van ventilation and the weather is great for exploring Dorset’s beaches and coastal paths.
Autumn and Winter
Reliable electric hook-ups ensure van heating systems operate efficiently. Modern shower facilities provide warmth during cooler months. Clear starry skies ideal for a relaxing evening.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Our flexible pitch options welcome everything from compact city vans to large expedition vehicles. We accommodate high-top vans, extended wheelbases and self-built conversions. Our deluxe hardstanding pitches provide stable positioning for heavier vehicles whilst our grass pitches suit lighter van setups.
Whilst we can accept long vehicles, we do have ornate gates as you approach our park. The gates are 3.8m high and at their narrowest point measure 2.82m wide.
We understand van life requirements including reliable electric hook-ups for van systems, water fill points, grey waste disposal and chemical toilet facilities. Our modern shower blocks provide excellent water pressure whilst our shop stocks van life essentials and emergency supplies.
Absolutely. Our pitches are specifically designed to accommodate full-size awnings with plenty of additional space for outdoor furniture, bicycles and family activities. Our pitches make the awning setup straightforward regardless of weather conditions. Awning charges may apply.
Deluxe fully-serviced pitches include hardstanding, electric, TV connection, water, waste drainage and a picnic bench. Superior electric pitches offer a choice of grass or hardstanding with a 10-amp hook-up and TV connection. Large super electric pitches provide extra space with electricity included. Standard pitches offer traditional touring. All pitches access the same award-winning facilities.
Yes. We welcome camper vans from March to December, with facilities remaining fully operational throughout winter. Dorset’s coastal climate stays relatively mild, though adequate heating becomes essential for comfortable van living. Winter offers excellent value, peaceful atmosphere and the charm of Dorset’s quiet season without summer crowds.
Our Diamond Loo of the Year Award-winning facilities include heated washrooms, modern shower blocks with excellent water pressure and dedicated camper van service points.
We understand that successful van life requires both adventure and practical support. Our facilities combine modern amenities with the authentic outdoor atmosphere that makes van travel special.
Morning showers feature excellent water pressure and consistent hot water. The heated facilities stay comfortable year-round. With piped music, you can enjoy a shower sing-along.
The adventure playground provides young guests with climbing frames and swings whilst parents relax nearby. The Information Hut in the middle of the park provides local maps, activity recommendations, cycle routes and walking suggestions. The Hut also has a microwave and freezer for freeze blocks.
Please speak with our friendly reception team for recommendations on local activities. They’d be happy to help plan your next break!
Absolutely. Our award-winning facilities include family shower and bathrooms and baby changing areas.
The adventure playground area allows for supervision while children play safely. The enclosed park environment means children can explore with appropriate freedom while remaining secure. The reception team is great at suggesting family-friendly activities in the local area.
Yes, dogs are very welcome. We provide a free washing station for muddy and sandy paws, a secure off-lead exercise area , a brand-new dog agility course and fresh water bowls positioned throughout the park.
All we ask is advance notification so we can ensure appropriate pitch allocation. The £2.50 per night per dog charge helps maintain our dog-friendly facilities. There is a maximum of 3 dogs per pitch.
We’ve got options that don’t involve you cooking every meal in your van or driving to Poole when everyone’s tired.
Regular catering vans visit the park serving fish & chips, pizza, Thai and Funky fries. Ideal for when you want someone else to cook. To see who is visiting, take a look here.
During high season, grab a delicious breakfast butty from the Café at the Gates or a freshly baked pastry, along with a barista-style coffee.
From May till the end of September, join us for a sundowner at The Manor’s Tap. Open 4 pm to 8 pm daily, serving a selection of beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks. Don’t miss our happy hour between 4 – 5 pm!
Our team will be serving handmade pizzas during the peak season. See reception for timings.
Our shop is well stocked with all the essentials and local produce just in case you forget anything. We stock van basics, including gas bottles and emergency supplies.
Just a short 10-minute walk away is The Cowshed at The Courtyard Craft Centre or St Peter’s Finger Pub, serving delicious home-cooked food.
Take a short drive to Poole, and there is a wide choice of restaurants and supermarkets when you need them.
We’ve created a guide for your camper van experience.
Essential van equipment:
- Levelling blocks ensuring stable positioning on all pitch types
- Fresh water hoses and grey waste containers for pitch servicing
- External electrical lead appropriate for 10-amp hook-up connections
- Mobile Mains unit for power connection
- TV Co-ax cable
- Wheel chocks and stabilisers for secure van positioning during extended stays
- All-weather awning or canopy extending living space regardless of conditions
Practical necessities:
- Waterproof clothing and footwear suitable for British coastal weather
- Entertainment for children, including books, games and outdoor toys for various weather
- Portable furniture, including chairs and tables for outdoor relaxation
- Washing and cleaning supplies
- Torches or headlamps for evening navigation around the park
Yes. Bus services stop directly outside our gates providing routes to Poole, Swanage and coastal destinations. This allows van travellers to explore extensively whilst keeping vans securely positioned throughout their stay. We also offer bicycle hire for local area exploration.
Ready to experience award-winning camper van break in Dorset?
Our pitches book quickly throughout peak seasons, particularly during school holidays and summer months. Early reservation ensures you secure preferred dates and optimal pitch locations.
What you need to know:
- Suitable for all camper van types from compact city vehicles to large expedition rigs
- Check-in from 12:00 noon, check-out by 11:00 AM
- Dog-friendly pitches available (additional fee of £2.50 per dog per night)
- Electric hook-up and TV connection on electric pitches (10-amp)
What we provide:
- Award-winning toilet and shower facilities maintained to exceptional standards
- Camper van service points with fresh water fill and waste disposal
- Information hub featuring local maps, guides and activity recommendations
- Emergency contact information and assistance on park
- On-site shop stocking van essentials and emergency supplies
- Catering vans, pizza truck and seasonal bar
Prices start from £28.00 per night for grass non-electric pitch
Explore Dorset’s attractions
Our location, just 3 miles from Poole, provides excellent transport links for exploring Dorset without relying solely on your van.
Explore convenient bus services stopping at our gates, hop on the Number 40 to Poole, nearby railway stations and ferry connections to Brownsea Island and the Channel Islands for extended touring adventures.
Your pitch becomes the ideal base for exploring Dorset’s World Heritage coastline, historic market towns and diverse family attractions.
Detailed information about nearby attractions, beaches and day trip options. Everything within 30 minutes. Check out our things to do guide for inspiration.
What’s nearby:
- Poole Harbour and waterfront (3 miles)
- Award-winning family attractions, including Splashdown, Farmer Palmers, Monkey World, The Tank Museum, Corfe Castle (between 10 and 45 minutes)
- Bournemouth beaches (20 minutes)
- South West Coastal Path – Poole (20 minutes)
- Sandbanks (10 minutes)
- Studland Beach (22 minutes)
- Lulworth and Durdle Door (30 minutes)
- Supermarkets and essentials (under 10 minutes)
Ready to book your camper van break?
Check availability and book online. If you have a question, please call our friendly team on 01202 622 577