Beaulieu River - Camping?

[mudlark]

Does anyone know of a spot up the Beaulieu River where it is possible to anchor/moor near to a camp site (too many crew for my 18 footer!) ?

Or perhaps someone could suggest somewhere else (in the Solent area) where it might be possible to moor/anchor near enough to shore where you can (and are allowed) put up a tent for the night?

My boat is bilge keel and only draws 2.5 feet (maybe a bit more with the crew...)

Many thanks

 

[Guest]

If no one gives you advise as regards a suitable place to pitch a tent in the Beaulieu River area then a good place is Newtown Harbour I.O.W. There's a Scout Campsite that has and probably still will allow non scouts to use their facility.
Its situated on the spur that juts out between the Shalfleet Stream and the little Shalfleet Quay. Its called Corf Scout Camp and a telephone call to the N.T. Warden will pay dividends. You will need to use a tender since the stream (Shalfleet Lake) dries completely, so anchor to the north of Shalfleet Quay and row up to the scout camp. There are anchoring restrictions so always ask the Harbour Master who also happens to be the N.T. Warden and he will direct you to a mooring or an achorage.
Cost per night at the scout camp was £1.50 per person/night if I remember right (2000). The New Inn pub is a pleasent walk and serves great ale and fantastic sea food.
I've stayed here twice whilst sailing a Wayfarer across from Hamble. Facilities are basic and occassionaly you'll get noisy cub-scouts on a night-ex (but the little b.... frighten off easily!)
Oh, by the way, Newtown is arguably the best and most scenic natural harbour in the Solent.

An Ron Beag

 

[Col]

Opposite Cowes, on the mainland is Calshot activities centre, and they have full camping facilities, including showers. You can anchor around the back in the "lagoon" or go alongside the wall also around the back. Good shelter, and access approx hw +- 3 hrs. Not glam, but has the Spinaker bar which does food.

 

[billmacfarlane]

Don't know about Beaulieu but there's a camping/caravan site within easy walking distance of Bembridge Marina. Unfortunately I don't know the details of it.

 

[WayneS]

if you are into a bit of beach camping you could so to East Head in Chi harbour. A lot of dinghies arrive there loaded full of crew and their bits, pitch a tent on the beach and have a good time.

 

[oldharry]

Re: East Head camping

....is no longer permitted, particularly in the dunes because of erosion (snoring too loud?), and you risk being 'moved on' by Richard and his henchmen on their 3.00am patrol....

 

[mudlark]

Thanks for all the replies. We are planning a trip the weekend after next, think we will take our chances with the scouts at Newtown - never been but sounds great (pub is a bonus) Will report back back afterwards!