Jo Southway is an animal behaviour and dog training expert who has created a holiday experience for clients and their dogs. She reports on PUPfest’s New Forest 2026 edition
Roundhill Campsite – Private Field
For many dog owners, the idea of group holiday sounds idyllic – walks, shared meals, and dogs dozing contentedly by the campfire. But for those living with nervous dogs or dogs with behavioural quirks, group activities can often feel off-limits. This New Forest camping break set out to change that, and over four carefully planned days, it delivered something rare: an inclusive, low-pressure holiday where both dogs and humans could truly relax. Set at Roundhill Campsite, the experience immediately stood out thanks to one crucial detail – the group had its own dedicated area. Whether arriving in tents, campervans or motorhomes, there was space to spread out, manage distance between dogs, and settle in at an individual pace. For dogs who struggle with close proximity or unpredictability, this alone made a world of difference. The campsite is set in a beautiful location, with walks directly from the site and clean, well-spaced facilities that ensured easy access without overcrowding.
Lepe Country Park
GENTLE BEGINNINGS
The trip began with a meet-up at Hawkhill Enclosure car park, gently easing everyone into the weekend with a relaxed walk through the New Forest. A two-hour route – with a shortcut for those who needed it – allowed dogs to acclimatise to the group while remaining surrounded by nature. By the time we arrived at Roundhill to check in and settle, there was already a sense of familiarity among the group. That feeling was cemented during the first evening’s group barbecue. Everyone contributed their own food and cooked together, with a separate veggie and vegan barbecue to avoid cross-contamination. It wasn’t just dog friendly; it was people-friendly too.
BEACHES, BREAKFASTS, AND BUILDING CONFIDENCE
Saturday morning took us to Lepe Country Park, starting with breakfast at the Lookout Cafe, where dogs were welcome in the outdoor seating area. Watching dogs relax at their owners’ feet while waves rolled in nearby felt like a small but significant victory, especially for those who rarely get to enjoy cafe stops. A beach visit and walk followed, offering plenty of sniffing opportunities and freedom of choice. We then called into Brockenhurst, where we discovered Grovely Pets, a pet shop with a welcoming resident Corgi who proudly showed us around. Back at camp that afternoon, an optional man-trailing workshop provided a structured yet confidence-boosting activity. Offered at no extra charge, it was a highlight for many. Crucially, participation required pre-booking and an advised kit list, ensuring dogs were set up to succeed rather than feel overwhelmed. For dogs who often struggle in traditional training environments, this proved to be a fantastic alternative. Saturday evening was intentionally low-key. Whether ordering from local takeaways, cooking independently, or simply relaxing at camp, there was no expectation to socialise – it just happened naturally.
Blackwater Arboretum
WOODLAND WALKS
Sunday’s walk at Blackwater Arboretum offered a longer 2.5-hour woodland route, again with a shortcut available. This flexibility ran throughout the trip. The afternoon brought free time: some explored, while others visited Lyndhurst, browsing pet shops and enjoying the town’s relaxed atmosphere. Mutts Appreciated pet shop was a huge hit, with many canine campers returning to the site with goodie bags filled with natural chews and treats. The final group meal at The Drift Inn Beaulieu on Sunday evening felt like a celebration rather than a challenge. With outdoor seating and tables booked in advance, it was another example of how planning can transform potentially stressful situations into genuinely enjoyable experiences. By Monday morning, as camp was packed away and goodbyes were said, the overriding feeling wasn’t exhaustion – it was pride. Pride in dogs who had tried new things, pride in owners who had finally been able to say ‘yes’ to a group holiday, and gratitude for an experience that truly understood its audience.
Grovely Pets
VERDICT
This New Forest dog camping holiday wasn’t about pushing boundaries – it was about respecting them. Through structure, flexible options, and a strong emphasis on safety and understanding, it created a space where dogs who are often excluded could finally belong. Bringing together dogs who are outgoing and sociable alongside those who may need more space or support, it showed that inclusive adventure is not only possible, but deeply rewarding.
Hawkhill Walk
Fact File
Visit PUPfest
If you are interested in joining us for PUPfest New Forest May 2026 please get in touch. A PUPfest camping event take place each September in Wales, where we have exclusive use of the entire campsite. The Wales trip is particularly well suited to more reactive dogs.
For more information, visit pupbehaviour.co.uk or email contact@pupbehaviour.co.uk
