How to Get Close to Nature While Camping in Pembrokeshire

Camping in Pembrokeshire is an unparalleled experience for nature lovers. With its rolling hills, coastal cliffs, and lush woodlands, Pembrokeshire offers incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural world. Here’s your guide to making the most of a nature-centric camping experience in Pembrokeshire, including a top recommendation of Rhosson Ganol as the best campsite to connect with the area’s breathtaking beauty.

1. Choose the Right Campsite for Nature

To truly immerse yourself in nature, selecting the right campsite is essential. Look for places that are nestled in natural surroundings, away from bustling areas.

Rhosson Ganol: Located near the picturesque St. David’s Peninsula, Rhosson Ganol is ideal for nature-focused camping. Known for its simplicity and close proximity to the coast, this campsite provides easy access to both inland trails and coastal views. Surrounded by natural beauty, Rhosson Ganol encourages campers to unwind and appreciate the unspoiled Pembrokeshire countryside.

2. Pack Nature-Friendly Essentials

A successful nature-focused camping trip involves packing responsibly. Bring gear that supports outdoor exploration while minimizing your impact on the environment.

Binoculars and Field Guides: Pembrokeshire is rich in diverse bird and wildlife. Pack a pair of binoculars and a bird-watching or wildlife guide to help identify local species.
Reusable Containers: Avoid single-use plastic by bringing reusable water bottles, containers, and eco-friendly toiletries.
Comfortable Footwear: The terrain around Pembrokeshire varies, so bring sturdy and comfortable hiking boots. This will let you navigate coastal trails, rocky paths, and woodland trails with ease.

3. Start the Day with a Nature Walk

Begin each morning with a walk to appreciate the serene landscapes and the early morning sights and sounds of Pembrokeshire’s natural world.

Explore Nearby Trails: Near Rhosson Ganol, you’ll find plenty of trails for all abilities. The Pembrokeshire Camping Coast Path is an exceptional choice. Whether you’re up for a challenging hike or a leisurely walk, it offers a glimpse of the area’s remarkable coastal scenery, wildlife, and native plants.
Beach Walks: Pembrokeshire is home to numerous secluded beaches and coves. Early morning beach walks are a chance to observe seabirds, and if you’re lucky, you might spot seals lounging on the rocks.

4. Try Bird-Watching and Wildlife Spotting

Pembrokeshire is a haven for bird-watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The county’s rich biodiversity offers encounters with various bird species, marine animals, and other wildlife.

Bird-Watching: From puffins and razorbills on the coast to buzzards and skylarks inland, Pembrokeshire is home to a wide array of bird species. Take your binoculars to nearby Ramsey Island or the Marloes Peninsula for the best bird-watching experience.
Spot Marine Life: Pembrokeshire’s coastal waters are teeming with marine life. Watch for dolphins, seals, and occasionally even basking sharks off the coast. Visiting during low tide might reveal rock pools brimming with small fish, crabs, and other coastal creatures.

5. Hike the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is renowned for its dramatic cliff views, hidden coves, and unique rock formations. It’s a must for campers who want to experience Pembrokeshire’s natural beauty up close.

Path Highlights: The path covers over 180 miles, so choose a section that aligns with your fitness level and interests. The stretch near St. David’s offers breathtaking views, and the Rhosson Ganol campsite is conveniently located nearby, making it easy to access this stunning trail.
Photo Opportunities: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the landscape, especially around the Blue Lagoon, Porthgain, and Strumble Head. These areas offer excellent opportunities for photography and will leave you with memories to treasure.

6. Enjoy a Picnic with a View

One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire is with a scenic picnic. Find a secluded spot along the coast or in a lush field and savor the surroundings.

Sustainable Picnic Tips: Pack your picnic in reusable containers and bring biodegradable utensils. Consider local produce like Pembrokeshire cheese, fresh bread, and seasonal fruits to create a delicious meal that supports the region’s economy.
Scenic Spots: The coastline near Rhosson Ganol offers several spots perfect for picnics, with cliff-top views, peaceful beaches, and areas where you can sit and observe nature without distractions.

7. Stargazing Under Pembrokeshire’s Dark Skies

Pembrokeshire’s dark skies make it one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. On clear nights, the sky becomes a canvas of stars, providing a magical end to a day of outdoor exploration.

Find a Spot Away from Artificial Light: Look for a quiet place away from artificial lights for the best stargazing experience. Rhosson Ganol’s rural location allows for dark skies ideal for observing stars, constellations, and even planets.
Bring Stargazing Essentials: If you’re new to stargazing, bring a star map or download an app to help identify constellations. A blanket, warm clothes, and a hot drink will make the experience even more enjoyable.

8. Discover Local Flora

Pembrokeshire’s diverse plant life changes with the seasons, providing a fresh experience every time you visit. Whether you’re camping in spring when wildflowers bloom or in autumn with golden foliage, the flora adds color and beauty to the landscape.

Wildflower Meadows: In spring and early summer, explore nearby fields and coastal paths for native wildflowers like sea pinks, bluebells, and primroses. These flowers attract butterflies and bees, adding vibrancy to the trails.
Foraging: If you’re knowledgeable about local plants, foraging can be a fun and rewarding way to connect with nature. From wild blackberries in late summer to edible plants like wild garlic in spring, Pembrokeshire offers safe, natural foods. However, foraging should only be done if you are sure of the plant’s identity and its sustainability.

9. Practice Eco-Friendly Camping

Eco-friendly camping is crucial to preserving Pembrokeshire’s pristine landscapes. Following sustainable camping practices helps protect the environment and ensures future generations can enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Leave No Trace: Rhosson Ganol follows Leave No Trace principles, which encourage campers to clean up after themselves. Bring eco-friendly cleaning supplies and pack out all trash to keep the area undisturbed.
Stay on Trails: Straying off established paths can damage fragile vegetation and disturb wildlife. Stick to marked trails to prevent soil erosion and protect plants.
Reduce Water Waste: Pembrokeshire’s natural water sources are precious. Use water sparingly and avoid washing directly in rivers or lakes. Bring biodegradable soap for any washing needs, and follow campsite guidelines for water conservation.

10. Embrace Mindful Nature Activities

Take time to relax and appreciate Pembrokeshire’s landscapes by engaging in mindful activities.

Nature Journaling: Journaling helps you capture the details of your trip, from the sounds of the waves to the colors of a sunset. Record your observations to deepen your connection with the natural world.
Forest Bathing: If you’re camping near a woodland, try forest bathing (or “Shinrin-yoku”) — a Japanese practice that involves immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. Studies show that spending quiet time in forests can reduce stress and improve well-being.
Morning Meditation: Pembrokeshire’s tranquility makes it perfect for meditation. Find a quiet spot by the beach or in a field to meditate, taking in the fresh air and surrounding scenery.

11. Explore Nearby Nature Reserves

Pembrokeshire is home to several nature reserves, each with unique ecosystems and wildlife. These protected areas offer a chance to learn more about the region’s biodiversity.

Skomer Island: Known for its puffin population, Skomer Island is a short boat ride from Pembrokeshire’s coast. A visit provides the chance to see not only puffins but also seals, seabirds, and other marine wildlife.
St. David’s Head: This area has rugged cliffs and lush headlands and is a fantastic spot for observing wildlife and admiring the scenic coastline. You can hike up the headland for panoramic views and a true sense of the area’s wild beauty.

12. Reflect on Your Experience

After your camping trip, take time to reflect on what you enjoyed about your time in nature and consider how you can incorporate more eco-friendly practices in the future.

Share Your Experience: Spread the word about the joys of nature-focused camping by sharing your experiences with friends, family, or on social media. Encourage others to explore Pembrokeshire and support eco-friendly tourism.
Plan Your Next Visit: Pembrokeshire’s changing seasons bring new colors and wildlife, making it a destination you’ll want to revisit. Each season offers unique sights and experiences, so consider planning a return trip to see the area in a different light.

Camping in Pembrokeshire offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a profound and meaningful way. By choosing an eco-friendly campsite like Rhosson Ganol, embracing sustainable practices, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty around you, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime while protecting this beautiful landscape for generations to come.