Welcome to the South Downs
The South Downs National Park is near the south coast of England and is home to the South Downs Chalk Hills, a stretch of hills extending 260 square miles across the coast. It's the perfect place for your next walking or cycling adventure and camping in the South Downs would just top this off.
If you prefer your adventures on the water, the South Downs runs along many major coastlines including Brighton Beach, home to the famous Brighton Palace Pier. Or take the kids on a trip to Drusilla's Zoo Park, a small 10-acre zoo famous for its Hello Kitty themed attraction.
Why guests love YHA campsites
- Stunning gardens and grounds
- 24-hour access to hostel facilities
- Perfect for activity breaks
- Beautiful views
Map of hostels with camping in the South Downs
YHA hostels with camping in the South Downs
YHA Truleigh Hill
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Large garden/grounds
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Free parking on premises
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Cycle store
Things to do in the South Downs
Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters
Visit Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters with their dramatic white cliffs and gently undulating downs.
Bluebell Railway
Take a journey back in time, this heritage steam railway runs through the glorious Sussex countryside - a great day out. Visit the Bluebell Railway website
Brighton i360
Enjoy a sky-high perspective of Brighton with a trip to the world’s tallest moving observation tower, the i360! With sweeping 360 degree views from a futuristic glass pod, you’ll be able to admire the...
Cycling in the South Downs
YHA South Downs is great for mountain bikers and road cyclists alike. The hostel benefits from a cycle rack and repair equipment to keep your bike in excellent condition while you're cycling the...
Firle Beacon and Cuckmere Haven self-guided walking route
A stunning long route with amazing views, beautiful rivers, beaches, coast path and interesting towns and villages.
Harbour Park Littlehampton
Enjoy a selection of family rides and attractions at one of the finest beach amusement parks on the South Coast. Visit the Harbour Park website
Nav & Natter social walk from YHA South Downs
Sunday 13th September 2026 Distance: 5.3 miles (8.4 km) Duration: 5 hours Led by: Cathy Ford, Heads Up Adventures Skills and confidence A stunning walking loop heading over the River Ouse and into...
Rodmell accessible self-guided walking route
A gentle walk alongside the River Ouse and through Sussex villages with views of the South Downs and chalk cliffs near Lewes. Look out for reminders of the area's industrial past.
SEA LIFE Brighton
The world's oldest operating aquarium is right on the seafront! With amazing exhibits, you can see how fish and marine creatures live beneath the waves, plus there are plenty of opportunities to get...
Swanborough Hill and Lewes self-guided walking route
A varied route with stunning views from the South Downs Way before passing through historic Lewes and back alongside the River Ouse on the Egrets Way.
Walking and Rambling in Truleigh Hill
If you're planning on staying at YHA Truleigh Hill, why not download a free map and get out exploring? All our self-guided walks start and end at a YHA hostel and are graded so that you can explore...
Worthing
Stroll five miles of promenade with it's art deco pier, or visit Brooklands Park with its boating lake and miniature railway.
Also available in the South Downs
Landpods
Enjoy the camping experience with some upgrades. Staying in a Landpod is like camping with a few added extras: all bedding is included, plus duvets, LED lighting and a cosy seating area. Perfect for getting closer to nature
Premium bell tents
Bell tent glamping offers a luxury upgrade from the regular camping experience. Our spacious premium bell tents each sleep up to 5 people. They include a double bed, two single futon beds and a single futon that can be folded into a chair. All bedding is provided.
Safari tent
Go wild glamping in one of our luxury African safari inspired tents, available at selected sites. Designed for families that like to move about, each safari tent has two bedrooms and sleeps up to six guests comfortably.
View some of our popular South Downs blog posts
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Carless and carefree trips to YHA National Park properties
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Unplug, unwind and reconnect: 6 wellbeing escapes in the UK with YHA
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