Best Camping Destinations in England

Your Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Adventures

If you're dreaming of sleeping under the stars, waking up to birdsong, and spending your days exploring some of England's most stunning landscapes, you've come to the right place. England's got an incredible variety of camping spots that'll suit everyone from beach lovers to mountain enthusiasts, and families to solo adventurers.

Whether you're pitching a tent for the first time or you're a seasoned camper, there's something magical about connecting with nature in this beautiful country. Let me walk you through some of the best camping destinations in England that'll make your next outdoor adventure absolutely unforgettable.

Camping in the Lake District

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Best Camping Destinations in England

The Lake District

Let's kick things off with the Lake District, which is hands down one of the most popular camping destinations in England. This UNESCO World Heritage Site in Cumbria offers dramatic mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and endless hiking trails that'll take your breath away.

You'll find everything from lakeside pitches to secluded woodland spots here. The area's perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, with activities ranging from gentle walks to challenging climbs up peaks like Scafell Pike. The scenery changes with every season, making it a year-round destination that never gets old.

Wasdale National Trust Campsite

Wasdale National Trust Campsite

If you're heading to the Lake District, you absolutely must check out Wasdale Head Campsite. This National Trust site sits in one of England's most dramatic valleys, surrounded by the country's highest mountains and deepest lake, an amazing location.

Reviewers comment it's a gorgeous campsite with stunning views that'll make you feel like you've stepped into a postcard. The campsite has clean, modern facilities, and it's the perfect base for tackling some of the Lake District's best walks.

It's a good place to stay to hike up Scafell Pike.

Cornwall

Stunning Beaches in Bude, North Cornwall

Now, if coastal camping's more your style, the Cornish coast should be at the top of your list. Cornwall's rugged coastline, golden beaches, and turquoise waters give you that holiday vibe without leaving England. The South West Coast Path runs right through here, offering some of the country's most spectacular coastal walks.

The coastline here is incredibly diverse – you've got dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, sandy beaches perfect for building sandcastles, and surf spots that attract wave riders from all over.

You'll find loads of family-friendly beaches, charming fishing villages, and some seriously good fish and chips. The mild climate means you can camp here comfortably from spring through autumn, and sometimes even into winter if you're hardy enough. Note that summer does get really busy.

Treen Farm Campsite near Porthcurno

For Cornwall, I'd recommend checking out Treen Farm Campsite near Porthcurno. This clifftop site offers absolutely stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean and is just a short walk from some of Cornwall's most beautiful beaches, including the famous Porthcurno Beach with its turquoise waters.

It's a working farm that's been welcoming campers for years, and they've got great facilities while maintaining that authentic camping feel. Families love it here because the beaches are safe for swimming and there's plenty to explore nearby. The amazing sunsets also get a mention on reviews!

Wooda Farm Holiday Park

Wooda Farm Holiday Park, Bude

Having previously lived in Bude, North Cornwall for over 20 years, Mogsy would highly recommend Wooda Farm Holiday Park locagted in Poughill, Bude.

Family run and owned, 5-star Wooda Farm Holiday Park is set in forty acres of parkland with stunning views of the Cornish coastline and rolling countryside inland. They have 55 luxury holiday homes, 9 luxury modern lodges and 3 cottages to let, and excellent facilities for touring and camping.

The site is approximately 1.5 miles from the town center and local beaches, with public transport available.

Devon

Devon is another county that deserves serious consideration when you're planning your camping trip. With both the dramatic north coast and the gentler south coast, plus Dartmoor National Park in between, Devon has incredible variety.

The north coast has fantastic surfing beaches and towering cliffs, while the south coast offers sheltered coves and the beautiful South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dartmoor's wild and mysterious, with its granite tors, ancient monuments, and roaming ponies.

Dartmoor National Park offers wild camping opportunities for those who want a more adventurous experience. You'll find campsites to suit every taste here, from clifftop locations with sea views to peaceful riverside spots inland.

Warcombe Farm Camping Park near Ilfracombe

Beautifully landscaped Warcombe Farm Camping Park

For Devon, we'd suggest Warcombe Farm Camping Park near Ilfracombe on the north coast. This site has stunning sea views and direct access to the South West Coast Path. It's family-run and has a really welcoming atmosphere, with great facilities and plenty of space.

It's nestled between Mortehoe and Lee Bay, North Devon, with a fishing lake, childrens play area & aerial slide, great facilities and a 14 acre woodland dog walk/nature trail. It is also close to the award winning surf beaches of Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton.

You're close to some brilliant beaches for surfing and swimming, and the coastal walking here is absolutely spectacular. The site strikes a nice balance between being well-equipped and maintaining that authentic camping feel.

Exmoor National Park

Exmoor National Park, straddling the Devon-Somerset border, is another of the best camping destinations in England that combines coastal and inland experiences.

The park includes a dramatic coastline with some of the highest sea cliffs in England, as well as moorland, woodland, and farmland inland. It's designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve, so stargazing here is absolutely incredible.

You might spot wild Exmoor ponies, red deer, and if you're lucky, even seals along the coast. The campsites here cater well for families, with plenty of activities available from pony trekking to coastal walks.

Dorset

Jurassic Coast, Dorset

On the south coast, Dorset's Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best camping destinations in England for geology enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. This stunning stretch of coastline spans 95 miles and represents 185 million years of Earth's history.

You'll find dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and fossil-rich beaches. Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are iconic landmarks that you've probably seen in photos, but they're even more impressive in person. The coastal path here offers some of England's most spectacular walks.

Tom's Field Campsite near Langton Matravers

Tom's Field Campsite in Dorset

Tom's Field Campsite near Langton Matravers is a lovely spot on the Jurassic Coast. It's a simple, peaceful site with stunning views across the countryside toward the sea. You're within walking distance of some beautiful beaches and coastal paths, and the nearby village has a good pub and shop.

The site has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and is perfect for families who want to explore this incredible coastline. You can spend your days fossil hunting, swimming in clear waters, and walking the coastal paths.

Reviewers like the back to nature feel of the site and find it rustic and relaxing.

The South Downs in Sussex

Moving East, The South Downs in Sussex offer yet another brilliant camping option, especially if you want to combine countryside and coast. This national park stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne, with rolling chalk hills, ancient woodlands, and traditional villages.

The South Downs Way is a fantastic long-distance trail that runs the length of the park, and you're never far from the coast. It's easily accessible from London and the southeast, making it perfect for weekend breaks.

Blackberry Wood near Lewes

Blackberry Wood near Lewes is an award-winning campsite that's particularly brilliant for families. It's set in ancient woodland with a really creative, fun atmosphere. The site's got quirky touches like a double-decker bus that serves as a games room and various unusual accommodations alongside traditional camping pitches.

There are woodland walks right from the site, and you're close to Brighton for a day trip to the seaside. The owners have created something really special here that kids absolutely love.

The New Forest, Hampshire

The New Forest in Hampshire is another fantastic destination, especially if you're camping with kids. This ancient woodland is home to wild ponies that roam freely, along with deer, cattle, and pigs. The forest's got hundreds of miles of walking and cycling trails, and it's remarkably flat, making it perfect for families with young children.

You're also close to the south coast, so you can combine forest adventures with beach trips. The New Forest has a magical, timeless quality that makes every visit feel special.

Hollands Wood Campsite

Hollands Wood Campsite is one of the best family-friendly options in the New Forest. Run by the Forestry Commission, it's set in a beautiful woodland clearing where ponies often wander through the site. The facilities are excellent, with modern shower blocks and plenty of space between pitches.

There's a great network of walking and cycling trails right from the campsite, and the nearby village of Brockenhurst has shops, cafes, and a train station for day trips to the coast.

The Isle of Wight

Chalk Cliffs of the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight, just off the south coast, is a brilliant option if you want an island camping adventure without leaving England. The ferry crossing adds a bit of excitement, especially for kids, and once you're there, you've got beautiful beaches, dramatic chalk cliffs, and loads of family-friendly attractions.

The island's compact size means you can easily explore different areas during your stay. There are numerous campsites ranging from basic to luxury glamping options, and the island's mild climate makes it a great choice for camping throughout the warmer months.

Suffolk's Heritage Coast

Suffolk's Heritage Coast is a coastal area on the east of England that deserves more attention than it gets. This stretch of coastline is less developed than many others, which means you get a more natural, unspoiled experience.

The beaches here are often quiet, even in summer, and the landscape has a wild, windswept beauty. Southwold and Aldeburgh are lovely coastal towns worth visiting, and there are some excellent campsites in the area. It's particularly good for families who want beach access without the crowds you might find in more popular destinations.

The Norfolk Coast

Also on the east coast, the Norfolk Coast is an outstanding alternative that often gets overlooked. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty features wide sandy beaches, salt marshes, and charming coastal villages.

It's fantastic for birdwatching, with nature reserves dotted along the coast. The campsites here tend to be quieter than those in the southwest, making it perfect if you want a more peaceful camping experience while still being by the sea.

The Cotswolds

Castle Combe - a village in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds offers a quintessentially English camping experience that's hard to beat. This area's famous for its honey-coloured stone villages, rolling hills, and picture-perfect countryside. Camping here is about relaxation and soaking up the peaceful rural atmosphere.

That said, there's still plenty to do – you can explore historic market towns, visit stately homes and gardens, and enjoy gentle walks through some of England's most beautiful countryside. It's ideal for families who want a slower pace and a chance to experience traditional English village life, and outdoor activities.

Castle Combe pictured above is said to be the "prettiest village in England".

Hoburne Cotswold near Cirencester

Hoburne Cotswold near Cirencester is a fantastic family-friendly site that offers a bit more comfort while still giving you that camping experience. It's got excellent facilities including an indoor pool, which is great if the weather turns.

The site's well-positioned for exploring Cotswold villages like Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold, and there are plenty of activities for kids. It's a good option if you want a mix of outdoor adventure and family amenities.

The Wye Valley

The Wye Valley, on the border between England and Wales, is another gorgeous area for camping. The River Wye winds through dramatic limestone gorges, ancient woodlands, and past historic sites like Tintern Abbey. It's brilliant for canoeing and kayaking, which makes it exciting for families with older children.

The area is also famous for its walking trails, including parts of Offa's Dyke Path. Campsites here often have riverside locations, and there's something really special about falling asleep to the sound of flowing water.

Shropshire Hills

Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is another hidden gem that doesn't get as much attention as it deserves. The landscape here is incredibly varied, with dramatic hills, peaceful valleys, and historic market towns.

It's less crowded than many national parks, which means you can enjoy a more peaceful camping experience. The area is rich in history and wildlife, and there are loads of walking and cycling routes. Campsites here tend to be smaller and more intimate, perfect if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a quieter outdoor experience.

Yorkshire

Moving to the North of England, Yorkshire has some absolutely cracking camping spots too, particularly in the Yorkshire Dales. This national park's characterized by dramatic limestone scenery, cascading waterfalls, traditional stone villages, and miles of dry stone walls crisscrossing the landscape.

The Dales offer brilliant walking, from gentle riverside strolls to challenging hill climbs. You'll find welcoming pubs serving hearty food, and the locals are genuinely friendly. It's proper English countryside at its finest.

Gordale Scar Campsite near Malham

Gordale Scar Campsite near Malham is a gem in the Yorkshire Dales. It's a simple, back-to-basics site that puts you right in the heart of some of the Dales' most spectacular scenery. You're within walking distance of Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and Janet's Foss – all stunning natural features that'll blow your mind.

The site has basic facilities, but that's part of its charm. It's perfect for families who want to immerse themselves in nature and explore one of England's most beautiful areas.

The North York Moors National Park

The North York Moors National Park offers a different kind of beauty with its expansive heather moorland, deep valleys, and dramatic coastline. In late summer, the moors turn purple with blooming heather – it's absolutely spectacular.

The park also includes charming villages, historic abbeys, and a heritage steam railway that kids absolutely love. The coastal section includes Robin Hood's Bay and Whitby, both brilliant places to visit during your camping trip. The campsites here cater well to families and offer a great base for exploring this diverse landscape.

Northumberland

The Northumberland Coast in North East England is absolutely stunning and offers some of the best beach camping in England. The beaches here are vast, sandy, and often beautifully empty, even in summer. You've got dramatic castles like Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh adding to the scenery, plus the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, which you can walk to at low tide.

The campsites along this coast offer incredible value compared to southern England, and you get just as much natural beauty. It's fantastic for families who love beach activities, castle exploring, and don't mind slightly cooler temperatures.

Beadnell Bay Camping and Caravanning Club Site

Beadnell Bay Camping and Caravanning Club Site is your go-to spot in Northumberland. It's right next to a beautiful sandy beach that's perfect for families, with rock pools to explore and safe swimming. The site is well-maintained with excellent facilities, and it's an ideal base for exploring the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

You're also within easy reach of the Farne Islands, where you can take boat trips to see puffins and seals up close. We think this would make a great family holiday spot!

Northumberland National Park

For those seeking something truly wild and remote, Northumberland National Park is an absolute treasure. This is one of England's least populated areas, which means you get dark skies perfect for stargazing and a real sense of wilderness.

The park includes part of Hadrian's Wall, so you're camping in an area steeped in Roman history. The landscape is rugged and beautiful, with rolling hills, ancient forests, and moorland stretching as far as you can see.

It's brilliant for families who want to teach their kids about nature and history while enjoying some proper outdoor adventures.

The Peak District

Let's head inland now and talk about the Peak District, which is one of the top camping destinations in England for good reason. As England's first national park, it has a special place in many campers' hearts. The Peak District offers two distinct landscapes: the Dark Peak with its dramatic moorlands and gritstone edges, and the White Peak with its gentle limestone dales and charming villages.

It's incredibly accessible from major cities like Manchester and Sheffield, yet once you're there, you feel a million miles away from urban life.

There are loads of family-friendly campsites here, and the area's perfect for all sorts of activities – rock climbing, caving, cycling, or just enjoying a traditional cream tea in one of the villages.

North Lees Campsite near Hathersage

North Lees Campsite near Hathersage is a brilliant choice in the Peak District. This small, no-frills site is set in a stunning location with views across the Hope Valley and easy access to some fantastic walks, including Stanage Edge.

It's perfect if you want a more authentic camping experience without loads of facilities getting in the way of nature. The nearby village of Hathersage has everything you need, including pubs, shops, and a great outdoor swimming pool.

Forest of Bowland in Lancashire

We must give a mention to the Forest of Bowland in Lancashire – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that's often overlooked. This peaceful area offers a more remote camping experience with stunning moorland, rolling hills, and pretty villages.

It's less crowded than the Lake District or Peak District, which means you can enjoy nature without bumping into crowds. The area's great for walking, cycling, and wildlife watching, and there are some lovely traditional campsites that give you a real back-to-basics experience.

When you're planning your camping trip, think about what kind of experience you want. If you're camping with young children, look for sites with good facilities, level pitches, and plenty of activities nearby.

Coastal sites are brilliant for families because beaches provide endless entertainment, but inland sites often offer more space and tranquillity.

Consider the time of year too – some areas get incredibly busy in summer, so booking well in advance is essential for popular camping destinations in England. Spring and autumn can offer quieter, more affordable camping with still-pleasant weather, especially in southern regions.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a proper tour through some of the best camping destinations in England. From the dramatic peaks of the Lake District to the sunny beaches of Cornwall, the wild moors of Dartmoor to the gentle hills of the Cotswolds, England's got an amazing variety of camping experiences waiting for you.

Each destination offers something unique, whether you're after adventure, relaxation, family fun, or a bit of everything. The beauty of camping in England is that you're never far from stunning scenery, interesting history, and welcoming communities.

The best camping destinations in England cater to all types of campers, so don't be afraid to try somewhere new.

So grab your tent, pack your sense of adventure, and get out there to explore these incredible places. Trust me, there's nothing quite like waking up in the English countryside, breathing in that fresh air, and knowing you've got a whole day of exploration ahead of you.

Happy camping!