The idea of camping at the world famous Eden Project may spark dreams of pitching a tent among a jungle of tropical plants but, alas, this YHA campsite – the closest campsite to the attraction – is still located outside the official entrance gates. So while you can’t swing from Tarzan-type climbers you can still pitch a tent within walking distance of the tropical biome – the most popular of the four huge, football-like structures that have made the place an architectural icon.
Located just outside the YHA Eden Project hostel, this small but excellent campsite is deliberately on the more rudimentary end of the spectrum. Caravans and campervans are not allowed, there are no electrical hook-ups and a small shower and toilet block are located alongside a little shop selling the essentials. Cars are also restricted to a specific parking area alongside the grassy meadow, so the field itself really is a tents-only space. The ‘wild camping’ style, though, suits the setting on the doorstep of such a nature-focused attraction and, though there is an obvious slope to the meadow, the vehicle ban keeps the ground good for pitching a tent.
For most, camping here is a one- or two- night stay as you take in the main event (tickets for the Eden Project attractions can all be bought on-site at a discounted price). But, if you plan on heading further afield, there’s plenty more on offer. This is Cornwall, after all! It’s a mere three miles to a trio of beaches in Carlyon Bay and less than ten miles to The Lost Gardens of Heligan in the west and the Lanhydrock estate and Restormel Castle to the east.
