What is a Seasonal Pitch?

Nov 12, 2025

Ever wished you could park up, pitch up, and stay put all season? That’s the magic of a seasonal pitch — your own long-term camping spot with all the comforts of home! From Seasonal Awnings to weekend escapes, discover the perks, costs, and freedom behind seasonal caravan pitches and why campers love them.

Defining the Seasonal Pitch Concept

A seasonal pitch refers to a designated camping or caravan area reserved for an extended period — usually a season or even a full year.

Unlike short-term stays, it allows campers to keep their caravan or motorhome in one fixed location, returning whenever they wish. It’s essentially your own long-term camping home, perfect for those who frequent the same site regularly and want the convenience of having everything set up.

The Hybrid Model: Bridging the Gap Between Touring and Static Caravans

A seasonal pitch sits between a touring caravan and a static one. You enjoy the freedom to move if you choose, yet the comfort and ease of a semi-permanent base.

This hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds — flexibility without constant towing or daily setup.

Caravan awning on a grassy campsite with two people sitting and talking outside, surrounded by greenery.

Seasonal vs. All-Year vs. Winter Pitches (Understanding the Duration)

The difference lies mainly in the time you stay:

Seasonal pitches: Reserved for several months, often spring through autumn.
All-year pitches: Available for twelve months, perfect for those who camp year-round.
Winter pitches: Cater for off-season stays and offer a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere.

Pitch Types and Included Services

Hardstanding vs. Grass Pitches (Which Is Best for Long Stays?)

Hardstanding pitches — made from gravel or concrete — provide better stability and drainage, ideal for long-term setups.

Grass pitches, meanwhile, offer a softer, more traditional camping feel but can be harder to maintain during wet weather.

What Is a Fully-Serviced Seasonal Pitch? (Water, Drainage, and Electric Hook-Up)

A fully-serviced pitch comes with direct connections for electricity, water, and drainage.

Many sites also provide Wi-Fi, waste disposal, showers, laundry rooms, and recreational facilities, giving campers everything they need for a comfortable stay.

Advantages and Disadvantages: Is a Seasonal Pitch Right for You?

The Key Benefits of Choosing a Seasonal Site

Eliminating the Hassle of Towing and Daily Setup

With a seasonal caravan pitch, campers avoid the constant towing and repetitive setup. Everything — from your awning to your chairs — stays in place, ready for the next visit.

Enabling Spontaneous Weekend and Short Getaways

Since your caravan is already set up, spontaneous weekend escapes become effortless. You can arrive, relax, and enjoy your surroundings immediately without any hassle.

Fostering a Community Feel and Familiar Environment

Regular visitors to seasonal pitches often build friendly, close-knit communities. These sites foster a welcoming, familiar environment that soon feels like a second home.

Caravan awning set up on a grassy campsite with trees in the background.

The Major Drawbacks and Limitations

Limited Travel Variety (Being ‘Stuck’ in One Location)

The biggest downside is having less travel variety.

A seasonal pitch ties you to one site for the duration, which might not suit campers who prefer exploring new places regularly.

High Upfront Payment and Booking Demand (The Role of Waiting Lists)

Seasonal pitches usually require an upfront payment and can be in high demand.

Popular parks often have waiting lists, so early booking is key to securing a space.

Navigating the Practicalities: Costs, Rules, and Alternatives

Understanding the Financial Commitment

Core Pitch Fees vs. Additional Metered Costs (e.g., Electricity)

Pitch fees vary depending on the region — generally between £1,800 and £5,000 per season.

These fees often include essentials such as water, sewage, and general site amenities. Extras like electricity, premium Wi-Fi, or luxury facilities may be charged separately.

Calculating the True Cost-Per-Night (For Frequent Use)

Although the upfront fee seems high, regular campers often find seasonal pitches more economical.

When you spread the cost over multiple visits, it typically works out cheaper than paying nightly, especially once you factor in reduced travel expenses.

Essential Rules and Requirements to Check Before Booking

The 'No Permanent Residence' Rule (Maximum Consecutive Stay Limits)

Most campsites prohibit using a seasonal pitch as a permanent residence.

You can stay for the season, but there’s usually a limit to how long you can remain consecutively before taking a short break off-site.

Awning Restrictions and Off-Season Storage Requirements

Some parks have restrictions on awning sizes or require removal during the off-season to protect grounds and prevent damage.

Always check the site’s specific policy before committing.

Security and Seasonal Caravan Insurance Policy Requirements

Many campgrounds require liability or caravan insurance to protect against theft or accidental damage.

Extra security measures — like wheel clamps, locks, and motion-sensor lights — are highly recommended for peace of mind.

Grey caravan awning attached to a white caravan on a white background.

How a Seasonal Pitch Compares to Other Options

Seasonal Pitch vs. Standard Touring Pitch

A seasonal pitch offers long-term stability and convenience, while a touring pitch is better suited to those who prefer constant travel and variety.

Each option has its charm — it depends on whether you value flexibility or familiarity more.

Seasonal Pitch vs. 'Store & Stay' Service

A ‘Store & Stay’ arrangement lets you keep your caravan on-site in storage, then have it positioned on a pitch whenever you visit.

It’s ideal if you want flexibility without committing to the full seasonal cost.

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