Where to Position Your Caravan on a Campsite Pitch (2026 UK Guide)
- IDS Camping & Leisure
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
Introduction
When you arrive on a campsite pitch with your caravan or motorhome, positioning the vehicle correctly makes the rest of the setup process much easier.
Where you park affects:
awning space
access to electric hook-up
levelling
outdoor seating area
In this guide we explain how experienced caravanners position their caravan on a campsite pitch in the UK.
Quick Caravan Pitch Positioning Guide
Most caravanners follow these simple positioning rules:
Keep the caravan door facing the awning side
Park close enough to the electric hook-up point
Leave space for your awning
Ensure the caravan is on the flattest part of the pitch
Leave space between neighbouring caravans
Which Side Should the Caravan Door Face?
Most caravans in the UK have the door on the left side.
This means caravanners usually position the caravan so that:
the awning faces the centre of the pitch
the door opens onto the outdoor space
This creates a comfortable outdoor living area.
Positioning Near the Electric Hook-Up
Look for the electric hook-up bollard when arriving on your pitch.
Position the caravan so the electric cable can easily reach the bollard without stretching.
Most hook-up cables are around 25 metres long.
Allow Space for Your Awning
Before finalising your position, consider how much space your awning will need.
Typical awning setups require space for:
awning frame or air beams
guy lines
storm straps
If the caravan is parked too close to the edge of the pitch, the awning may not fit.
Leave Space Between Caravans
UK campsites often require minimum spacing between units for safety.
This helps reduce fire risk and keeps pitches comfortable.
Always follow campsite guidance on:
pitch boundaries
spacing rules
Common Pitch Positioning Mistakes
Many beginners make small mistakes when parking their caravan.
Common issues include:
parking too close to the hook-up bollard
leaving no space for the awning
parking on uneven ground
blocking the pitch access road
Taking a moment to assess the pitch before parking helps avoid these problems.
Related Guides
If you’re new to caravanning, these guides will help you with the full campsite routine.
What to do when you first arrive at a campsite.
Follow our complete setup process.
Checklist before leaving your pitch.
FAQs
Which way should a caravan face on a campsite pitch?
Most caravanners position their caravan so the door and awning side face the centre of the pitch. This creates a comfortable outdoor space for seating, cooking, and relaxing.
How close should a caravan be to the electric hook-up?
Most electric hook-up cables are around 25 metres long, so your caravan should be positioned close enough to reach the hook-up bollard without stretching the cable across neighbouring pitches or access roads.
Do caravans have to face a certain direction on campsites?
Some campsites have recommended positioning for safety reasons, particularly regarding spacing between caravans and fire safety rules. Always follow campsite instructions if specific pitch positioning is required.
Should you reverse a caravan onto the pitch?
Most caravanners prefer to reverse onto the pitch, as this usually makes it easier to connect electric hook-up, water supplies, and set up the awning.
How much space do you need for a caravan awning?
Awning space depends on the model, but most caravanners allow at least 2–3 metres of space beside the caravan for the awning, guy lines, and outdoor furniture.
Can you move your caravan after setting up?
Yes, but it’s much easier to position the caravan correctly before setting up the awning, connecting electric hook-up, and lowering the corner steadies.
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