Explore the Rugged Coastlines, Hidden Coves, and Bodmin Moor
Welcome to your essential guide to motorhome and campervan stopovers in Cornwall. Whether you are chasing the surf along the North Cornish coast, exploring the historic ruins of Tintagel, or winding your way down to the Lizard Peninsula, knowing exactly where you can safely park up for the night is the secret to a relaxing Cornish road trip.
Here at the Motorhome Stopover Club, we know that touring Cornwall is a dream for many, but the fear of getting stuck down a narrow lane or struggling to find a legal parking spot can be stressful. That’s why we’ve built this directory of welcoming, tried-and-tested motorhome stopovers right across the county.
What to Expect from Cornish Stopovers
Because Cornwall sees millions of visitors each year, relying on spontaneous wild camping isn’t an option. Our directory highlights fantastic, legal spots that welcome the motorhome community:
- Coastal & Village Pubs: Enjoy a traditional Cornish pasty or a pint of local cider, and sleep securely in the pub car park just a short distance from the sea.
- Inland Farm Stays: Escape the intense summer crowds of the coastline by retreating inland to peaceful working farms near Bodmin Moor or the Tamar Valley.
- Dedicated Overnight Spots: Practical parking locations set up for self-contained campervans and motorhomes, giving you peace of mind and keeping you on the right side of local parking rules.
Quick Tips for Touring Cornwall in a Motorhome
Driving a motorhome in Cornwall requires patience and planning. Keep these vital local tips in mind:
- Beware the Fishing Villages: Do not try to drive a large motorhome into historic fishing villages like St Ives, Mousehole, or Polperro. The roads shrink to a bottleneck, and turning around is often impossible. Park on the outskirts or use the excellent Park & Ride train branches (like the St Erth to St Ives line).
- Respect the “Cornish Hedges”: The narrow, winding lanes are lined with solid stone-and-earth banks, not soft bushes! Stick to the main spine roads (like the A30 and A38) for as long as possible before dropping down to your coastal destination. Always know the dimensions of your van.
- Wild Camping is Frowned Upon: Cornwall suffers from over-tourism in the summer, and overnight parking in laybys or beach car parks is heavily restricted and often enforced with fines. Using our dedicated stopovers ensures you are supporting local businesses and maintaining a great reputation for the motorhome community.
Browse Our Cornwall Stopover Map
Ready to discover the magic of the West Country? Browse our interactive map and the list below to find the perfect overnight stop for your Cornish adventure.
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