Tackeroo Campsite Cannock Chase is one of our favourite bases for mountain biking, thanks to its shady woodland pitches and direct access to popular MTB trails like Follow the Dog.
Cannock Chase is one of our favourite places to cycle, thanks to its fantastic mountain bike trails. On our first trip, we stumbled upon the Tackeroo campsite while riding the trail. However, we couldn’t stay then because our camper didn’t have an onboard toilet yet!
By the end of that year, we had upgraded to a Crafter with its own toilet and shower, so Tackeroo quickly made it onto our must-visit list. We finally camped there in July 2022 and loved it so much that we returned the following June.
A Campsite with History
Tackeroo Campsite sits quietly among the trees, offering plenty of shade during the warmer months. Unlike many other sites, it has no marked pitches. Instead, you’ll find sections of hardstanding; leftovers from Rudgley Camp, a major military training ground during World War I. The campsite’s name comes from a military railway that once served the area. Additionally you can still spot the concrete foundations of the old munitions storage shed right in the middle of the site.
🏕️ Campsite Details: Chase Camping at Tackeroo
- Location: Penkridge Bank Rd, Rugeley WS15 2UA
- Amenities: Elsan points, waste refuse points including ‘Recycling’ and water points. Pets welcome for a fee.
- Best Spot: Look for one of the old concrete foundations from the WWI camp. They make the flattest pitches under the trees.
- Tips: Bring your own toilet and washing facilities, as there are none on-site.
Simple, Self-Sufficient Camping
Chase Camping manages Tackeroo on behalf of Forestry England, keeping things as simple as possible. You’ll find only the essentials: water, waste disposal, and recycling points. This no-frills approach means you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient.
Campfires & BBQs: What’s Allowed?
One important rule to remember: open fires and fire pits aren’t allowed at Tackeroo. The Forestry Commission and local fire brigade enforce this to protect the forest. As a result Charcoal and disposable BBQs aren’t permitted. If you’re planning a BBQ, bring a gas-powered BBQ. You can also use a gas-operated fire pit to keep warm in the evenings.
Perfect for Nature Lovers
Tackeroo sits right in the middle of Cannock Chase’s stunning forest, which is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. So you’ll share your stay with free-roaming wildlife and have direct access to miles of cycling and walking trails, starting right from your pitch.
One thing we really appreciate about Tackeroo is how well it blends into the forest. Tall trees surround you, providing plenty of shade, which is perfect during the UK’s occasional heatwaves. Unlike many open-field campsites with no shelter, Tackeroo’s woodland canopy helps you stay cool and feel immersed in nature.
If you’re looking for a no-frills base to ride, walk, and unwind under the trees, Tackeroo is well worth a visit.
🗺️MTB Trails – Follow the Dog (Red)
- Distance: 9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 725 ft
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Highlights: Follow the Dog, Lunch at the trail centre café
- GPX Download: Komoot
🧭 Final Thoughts
If you want peaceful woodland camping with top-class MTB trails on your doorstep, Tackeroo delivers exactly that. It’s simple, shady, and perfect for self-sufficient campers who love nature.
🔍 Summary
Why visit Cannock Chase?
- Shady woodland pitches especially ideal for hot summer days
- Direct access to Cannock Chase’s MTB and walking trails
- Simple, no-frills camping for self-sufficient campers
Next time you’re planning a trip, give Tackeroo a try furthermore don’t forget to check out our other campsite and cycle route recommendations on our map.
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