Here at Wyreside, life bumbles along quiedy by the peaceful waters of the River Wyre in the middle of rural Lancashire, and initially nothing looks that radical. Then you notice that the hens wandering around are a bit hippy-looking, and discover that some lay blue eggs, others green (though they taste the same as the 'normal'-looking ones) and it dawns that this is no ordinary campsite.

What's more, the Badger Face Welsh Mountain sheep don't exactly belong in this level part of Lancashire - and they don't look like badgers either...Then you meet the effervescent owner, and it all becomes clear. Penny's wild about wildlife and its preservation; she's created conservation areas between the two camping fields, as well as 'butterfly bars' (Buddleia plants) to help with a healthy insect population. Should campers tire of watching weird hens, badgers masquerading as mutton, or browsing butterflies, there are plenty of distractions around here, including microlighting, parachuting, cycling the lost lanes of north Lanes, or exploring historic Lancaster or Garstang, Britain's first classified fair-trade town. And, just beyond, the Bowland Fells rear up challengingly.

COOL FACTOR A rural riverside retreat with colourful eggs.

WHO'S IN? Tents, campervans, caravans, some dogs (depending on breed, so check first) - yes. Croups - no.



ON SITE Just 12 pitches (each with hook-up), and it's not a smalt site, so there's plenty of room. Modern toilets and 2 free showers. The only facility lacking is a washing-up sink, but plans are afoot to take care of this. No campfires or BBQs.

OFF SITE This is an intriguing area with the Bowland Fells on the doorstep, and a seemingly undiscovered stretch of coastline on the Lune Estuary a few leisurely bike miles away.

FOOD AND DRINK The Grapes pub (01995 679229) is a 5-minute stroll away. At the Great Eccleston Fish Bar (01995 670862), 3 miles away, you can have wine with your chips. The Grade l-listed Art Deco Midland Hotel (01524 424000) in Morecambe has a posh restaurant and afternoon teas.

GETTING THERE Allotment Lane is off the southern side of the A586 (Garstang to Blackpool road), 2 miles west of the junction with the A6, and in the village of St Michael's.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT Regular Stagecoach bus no. 42 runs between St Michael's and Blackpool.

OPEN 1 March-31 October.

THE DAMAGE Tent plus 2 adults with hook-up £16 per night; extra adult £5; child £2; previously agreed dog £1.