Parking on Bodmin Moor is all about location. The area is huge, so you need to pick the car park closest to your specific hike or attraction. Most of the moorland car parks are free and rustic (gravel/grass), while the reservoir car parks are managed and have charges.
Safety Note: Ponies and livestock roam freely across the roads and car parks. Please drive slowly and never feed them.
Our Top Picks
Save time by heading straight to the car park that matches your plans.
- Best for History & The Hurlers: The Hurlers Car Park. Located in the village of Minions. It is the perfect starting point for seeing the stone circles, the Cheesewring, and the engine houses.
- Best for Hiking (Highest Point): Rough Tor Car Park. The main access point for climbing Rough Tor and Brown Willy (Cornwall’s highest hill). It is remote, free, and puts you right on the moor.
- Best for Families & Activities: Siblyback Lake. A managed site with toilets, a cafe, and a flat walking path around the lake. Ideal if you want the views without the mud.
The High Moor & Hiking
These spots are ideal for accessing the wildest parts of the landscape.
The Hurlers Car Park (Minions)
Postcode: PL14 5LW
Capacity: Moderate (Gravel)
Best For: The Hurlers Stone Circles and the Cheesewring. There is a second overflow car park further north in the village if this one is full.
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Rough Tor Car Park
Postcode: PL32 9QG
Capacity: Moderate (Gravel)
Best For: Climbing Rough Tor. The road to get here is long and narrow, so drive carefully. It is free to park, but there are no facilities (no toilets).
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The Reservoirs
Managed by South West Lakes Trust, these areas offer better facilities.
Siblyback Lake
Postcode: PL14 6ER
Capacity: Large
Best For: Watersports, the play area, and the cafe. It is a great base for a full day out.
Note: Parking charges apply here (ANPR system). It is card/app payment usually.
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Colliford Lake
Postcode: PL14 6PZ (Approx)
Capacity: Multiple small areas
Best For: A quieter experience. Colliford is vast and feels more remote than Siblyback. There are several picnic areas dotted around the perimeter loop.
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Now that parking is sorted, plan the rest of your trip with our complete guide to Bodmin Moor.