Back in May 2021, we set out on our first trip to Cannock Chase, a top UK destination for mountain biking. Being members at the time we chose the Cannock Chase Camping and Caravanning Club Site, which is ideally located near the trail centre.
🏕️Campsite Review: Cannock Chase Camping & Caravanning Club Site
- Location: Wandon Lodge, The Old Youth Hostel Staffordshire, Rugeley WS15 1QW
- Amenities: Toilets, Showers, Motorhome service point, small shop, pets welcome
- Best Spot: Hardstanding with electric hook-up are the flatter pitches
- Tips: The gate at the back of the site leads directly onto Cannock Chase
Although the site is relatively small, it includes all the essential facilities. Moreover, it’s quiet, clean, and beautifully surrounded by woodland.
Initially, we chose a grass pitch with electric hook-up. I can’t recall whether the hardstanding options were booked or if we simply assumed the grass would be fine for our Marco Polo camper.
However, the pitch wasn’t clearly marked, and the slope made it tricky to level. As a result, we probably ended up straddling two pitches to find a flat section, but no one minded.
🗺️MTB Trails – Blue trail & Follow the Dog (Red)
- Distance: 16.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,425 ft
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Highlights: Follow the Dog, Lunch at the trail centre café
- GPX Download: Komoot
We began our ride from the back of the campsite, taking an off-road track that led toward the railway. There’s a segment of the Monkey Trail on that side, but since it was our first time, we planned to ride to the main trail centre first.
At first, we got a little lost. We accidentally headed toward a different café, not the one at the centre. Nevertheless, we quickly corrected our route along a fire road. We hoped it was the right way.
Soon after, we found ourselves on part of the red trail. We hoped it would guide us toward the centre. Interestingly, it ended up taking us almost 12 miles to get there. In hindsight, we had covered much of the red trail before even reaching our intended destination.
Once we arrived, we took a well-earned break at the café for coffee and snacks. At the time, Perry’s Trail (the blue route) was still being built. Therefore, it felt disjointed and shorter than expected.
Consequently, we then jumped back on Follow the Dog, riding toward the campsite and the Monkey Trail. After crossing the railway again, Brad continued on the Monkey Trail, whereas I opted to take the fire road back to the campsite.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Grass pitches with electric weren’t ideal due to the slope. When we returned in November with our VW Crafter, we chose a hardstanding pitch. It was much more level and better suited for the low season.
Cannock Chase offers a fantastic mix of flowy singletrack, forest paths, and purpose-built MTB trails. It’s beginner-friendly yet rewarding for more experienced riders.
🔍 Summary
Why visit Cannock Chase?
- Excellent MTB trails for beginners and intermediates alike
- Peaceful, well-equipped campsite
- Easy access to woodland routes from your pitch
Pro Tip:
Pick a hardstanding pitch and download the GPX beforehand if you’re new to the trail layout.
Check out some of our other recommendations for campsites and cycle routes, on our map.
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