Campsite Availability: How to Find Open Spots Across the UK

When you're planning a road trip in a motorhome, campsite availability, the number of open spots at a campsite on a given date. Also known as campsite booking status, it's the difference between a smooth trip and a last-minute scramble. It’s not just about how many sites there are—it’s about when they open, who books them first, and what rules change from one region to the next.

Some campsites in the Lake District or Cornwall fill up six months ahead, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Others, like smaller independent sites in Scotland or Wales, keep a few spots open for walk-ins. The UK 36 rule, a guideline limiting how close you can camp to a public road without permission. affects where you can legally stay overnight, which shrinks your options. Then there’s the 305 day rule, a regulation that impacts how often you can rent out your motorhome for short stays. If you’re looking to stay at a private site run by someone who rents out their land, this rule might mean they only open a few slots per year.

Don’t assume a site is full just because it’s popular. Many campers cancel last minute—especially during bad weather. Sites like those listed on Pitchup.com or The Camping and Caravanning Club often release cancellations 48 hours before arrival. If you’re flexible, check daily. Some sites even have waitlists you can join online. And if you’re open to wild camping or stealth camping, you’re not stuck waiting for a numbered pitch. Just know the legal boundaries: wild camping, sleeping outside official sites without permission. is mostly illegal in England but tolerated in parts of Scotland if done responsibly.

Family campsites, glamping spots, and dog-friendly sites all have different availability patterns. Family spots fill fast in summer, while quiet, off-grid sites might stay empty until September. If you’re renting a campervan, your rental company might have preferred sites with guaranteed spots—but those often cost more. Booking early doesn’t always mean booking smart. Sometimes waiting until a week out gets you better deals and better locations, if you’re willing to drive a little farther.

What you’ll find below are real stories and practical guides from people who’ve been there: how they scored a last-minute spot in the Peak District, why a site in Wales was empty on a bank holiday, and what to do when every campground on the map says "full." Whether you’re chasing sunset views over the coast or quiet nights under the stars, knowing how campsite availability really works saves time, stress, and money.