What is DA Camping? A Simple Guide
If you’re new to DA camping, this guide explains how District Association camping works, including meets, Temporary Holiday Sites (THSs), facilities and what to expect.
What is a District Association?
The Camping and Caravanning Club is organised into local groups called District Associations (DAs), run by members on a voluntary basis.
Each DA organises meets and Temporary Holiday Sites (THSs), offering a range of camping opportunities throughout the year.
When you join the Club, you are allocated a DA based on where you live, but you are free to camp with any DA across the UK.
DAs are grouped into Regions, which may also organise larger events.
What is a Meet?
A meet is a short camping event, usually over a weekend, held in a variety of locations such as fields, club venues or showgrounds. Meets are run by volunteer stewards and are a simple, affordable way to enjoy camping with other members.
What is a Temporary Holiday Site (THS)?
A Temporary Holiday Site (THS) is a longer-running camping location, often in popular areas, where you can stay for one night or for the full duration. THSs offer a flexible and affordable alternative to commercial campsites.
Do I need to book?
Most meets are “turn up and camp”, meaning you can simply arrive on site and check in with the steward.
Some meets do require booking in advance. This will always be clearly shown on the event listing, so it’s important to check before travelling.
Can I just turn up without booking?
In most cases, yes.
If a meet is listed as “turn up”, you can simply arrive on site and check in with the steward.
If a meet requires booking, you must book in advance and should not arrive without a confirmed place.
Always check the event details before travelling to avoid disappointment.
How much does it cost?
DA camping is one of the most affordable ways to camp.
Prices vary by event but are typically charged per unit per night, regardless of how many people are staying within that unit.
What facilities are provided?
Facilities vary depending on the type of event and location, so always check the event listing before travelling.
All meets and Temporary Holiday Sites provide:
Drinking water
Toilet waste (Elsan) disposal
Some sites may also offer additional facilities such as toilets or showers, but these are not guaranteed and should be checked in advance.
Electric hook-up is not usually available, although some meets or sites may offer it. This will always be clearly shown on the event listing.
Do I need my own toilet?
Yes. Most meets have basic facilities and do not provide toilets or showers, so you will need to be self-sufficient.
Fresh drinking water and a toilet waste (Elsan) disposal point will always be available.
What happens when I arrive?
When you arrive in the area, look out for our yellow SWDA directional signs, usually placed on lampposts or roadside posts to guide you to the site.
Once on site, report to the steward who will check you in and guide you to your pitch.
The steward’s unit will normally be clearly marked with a flag or sign and is your first point of contact on arrival.
Can I camp with other District Associations?
Yes. You are welcome to attend meets organised by any District Association, as well as regional and Special Interest Section events across the UK.
What is it like on site?
Camping with a DA is relaxed and informal.
You can be as social or as private as you like. Some people enjoy joining in with activities and social events, while others prefer a quiet weekend.
You’ll find a real mix of people on site, and everyone is treated the same in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
A Warm Welcome
Camping with South Wales DA offers a warm and friendly welcome to all members of The Camping and Caravanning Club.
Whether you’re a family, couple, solo camper or new to DA camping, you’ll find a friendly and welcoming atmosphere on site.
Some people arrive knowing no one and leave having made friends. Others simply enjoy the space and quiet. Both are equally part of the experience.
Still unsure?
You’ll find more detailed information on our main pages:
See how it works in practice on our Camping page
Get a feel for what it’s like on our Experience page
Browse upcoming events on our Events page
Or simply come along and say hello. You’ll always be made welcome.
(Links included below)
Quick Links