Pitches by the Lake at Andark in Hampshire

Andark Lake sits in Lower Swanwick with its camping field placed right beside the inland diving lake. The site lies six miles from Southampton and close to the River Hamble, giving campers immediate views across the water and easy reach of coastal paths. The lake itself reaches seven metres at its deepest point with a beach-style entry, forming the natural focus for anyone who enjoys open water.

Pitches spread across a compact grassy area that mixes standard grass surfaces with some grass-and-gravel hardstanding sections. Electric hookups appear on selected pitches while others remain basic, suiting tents, campervans and smaller motorhomes.

The layout keeps the field open and level in most places with gentle slopes that do not hinder movement. Campers park directly beside their unit, which simplifies unloading and keeps the site feeling uncluttered.

Facilities occupy a single modern block open around the clock. Hot showers, toilets and changing rooms with lockers handle daily needs, while an accessible toilet can be requested. A cold-water wash-up sink and chemical disposal point sit nearby. The on-site café serves hot drinks and light meals, and the small shop stocks basics, ice creams and a range of dive-related items. Free wifi covers the whole field for those who need to check routes or bookings.

Access follows a three-hundred-metre unmade track that leaves Bridge Road opposite the Old Ship pub. The track surface remains firm enough for standard vehicles though care helps on wet days. Blue-badge holders receive priority parking close to the lakeside area. Parts of the field stay unlit after dark, so a reliable torch makes late-evening movement easier.

• Accessibility: level ground around the main facilities with an accessible toilet available on request and dedicated spaces for blue-badge holders near the lakeside pitches
• Layout: compact grassy field with a mix of grass and grass-and-gravel pitches positioned directly beside the lake for immediate water views
• Parking: spaces allocated next to each pitch for cars, tents or motorhomes with additional lakeside parking for campsite guests
• Local amenities: two pubs within easy walking distance, a marina and riverbank paths a few hundred metres away, plus the on-site café and shop; Southampton offers larger stores and transport links six miles north

The site accepts bookings from immediate families and couples only, which keeps the atmosphere quiet and focused. Dogs stay welcome provided they remain on leads and never enter the lake. Under-eighteens must arrive accompanied by a parent or guardian. Open-water swimming sessions and paddleboarding run on selected days with separate charges, while scuba training takes place regularly from the same base.

Many reviews note the clean state of the shower and toilet block together with helpful staff on site. The facilities rate well with a good number of reviews, though the limited number of cubicles means sharing with day visitors to the lake. Campers regularly mention the peaceful setting and the convenience of having everything needed within a few steps of the pitch.

From the field edge, paths lead straight to the River Hamble where the marina offers a different waterside scene. The Solent coast lies only a few miles further, opening up options for longer coastal walks or simply watching the tide. The combination of basic pitches, direct lake frontage and practical facilities suits those who want a functional base without the distractions of larger holiday parks.

The setup works equally well for a short overnight stop or a longer break spent exploring the water and surrounding lanes. Everything stays geared toward practical enjoyment rather than organised entertainment, leaving campers free to set their own pace beside the lake.