If you love waking up to birdsong instead of traffic, walking straight from your tent into the countryside, and spending evenings under a sky full of stars, camping is one of the best ways to experience the UK. The country has an amazing variety of landscapes for campers. You can sleep beside a mountain lake in the Lake District, camp beside a river in Exmoor, or pitch your tent beneath the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia). Some sites are basic and peaceful, while others offer useful facilities without taking away the feeling of being outdoors. For this guide, I’ve focused on campsites where nature is genuinely part of the experience. Location, walking opportunities, scenery, wildlife and the overall camping atmosphere matter just as much as facilities. Here are 15 UK camping sites worth considering if your ideal holiday involves fresh air, beautiful landscapes and plenty of time outside.
1. Wasdale Campsite, Lake District, England
Best for: Mountain scenery, hiking, lakes and peaceful surroundings
If mountains and lakes are your idea of a perfect camping trip, Wasdale is difficult to beat.
Located in Cumbria, Wasdale Campsite sits close to Wastwater and Wasdale Head, surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most dramatic scenery. The campsite is about a mile from Wastwater and provides access to walking routes, waterfalls, mountain trails and cycling opportunities. It is also a popular base for people planning to climb Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain.
What makes the area special is that you don’t necessarily need to climb a mountain to enjoy it. The valley itself offers plenty of opportunities for walking and enjoying the landscape. Wastwater is particularly impressive, with the surrounding mountains creating a classic Lake District view.
The campsite has tent pitches as well as options for campervans, motorhomes and other accommodation. Facilities include toilets, showers, washing-up areas and a shop, so you can enjoy a relatively comfortable stay while still feeling surrounded by nature.
One thing to remember is that the road into Wasdale can be narrow and challenging, particularly for larger vehicles. The National Trust also has restrictions on vehicle size, so check the current guidance before travelling.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Mountain views, Wastwater, waterfalls, walking trails, dark skies and the peaceful Wasdale valley make this one of the UK’s strongest choices for an outdoor-focused camping trip.
- Official information: National Trust – Wasdale Campsite
2. Cloud Farm Campsite, Exmoor, England
Best for: Riverside camping, wildlife and countryside walks
For a quieter countryside experience, Cloud Farm Campsite in Devon is a lovely option.
The campsite is beside Badgworthy Water in the Lorna Doone Valley on Exmoor. Instead of feeling like a large holiday park, Cloud Farm has a relaxed countryside atmosphere, with the river, woodland, moorland and walking routes all close by.
There are walks for different abilities, from easier countryside strolls to longer hikes towards Dunkery Beacon. You can also follow trails along the river and explore the surrounding moorland and ancient woodland.
Wildlife is another reason to visit. Depending on the season and conditions, you may see Exmoor ponies, red deer, buzzards and kingfishers. The surrounding landscape also has interesting historical features, including prehistoric remains and an old packhorse bridge.
The campsite accommodates tents, campervans, motorhomes and pods. Facilities include toilets, showers and electric hook-ups, making it a good compromise if you want a natural setting without giving up basic comforts.
- Why nature lovers will like it: You have a river, moorland, woodland, wildlife and walking trails practically on your doorstep.
- Official information: National Trust – Cloud Farm Campsite
3. Hafod y Llan Campsite, Eryri (Snowdonia), Wales
Best for: Mountain walks, rivers and a more rustic camping experience
If you prefer simple camping in a dramatic mountain landscape, Hafod y Llan is worth putting on your list.
This rustic campsite is in Gwynedd, Wales, beside the Cwm Llan River and below the Watkin Path at the base of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). It is a particularly attractive choice for walkers because of its location within the Eryri landscape.
The campsite itself is deliberately simple. It is a tent-only site, which helps preserve its traditional camping atmosphere. From here, you can explore mountain trails, rivers, waterfalls and nearby lakes.
For more ambitious walkers, the Watkin Path provides a route towards the summit of Yr Wyddfa. The National Trust describes the route from the campsite as an eight-mile walk there and back. Because mountain weather can change quickly, anyone planning a serious hike should check conditions and make sure they have suitable equipment and experience.
The surrounding Hafod y Llan farm is also interesting from a nature and conservation perspective. The area includes land designated as a National Nature Reserve, along with protected habitats and historic remains from the area’s industrial past.
Beddgelert is also nearby, giving campers an option for a meal, supplies or a relaxed village visit.
- Why nature lovers will like it: This is camping for people who want mountains, rivers, waterfalls and walking trails rather than entertainment complexes.
- Official information: National Trust – Hafod y Llan Campsite
4. Roundhill Campsite, New Forest, England
Best for: Woodland, cycling, walking and wildlife
The New Forest offers a completely different type of camping experience from the mountains of the Lake District and Wales.
Roundhill Campsite is a popular choice for exploring the New Forest landscape, where open heathland, ancient woodland and wildlife create a very different backdrop from the UK’s mountainous national parks.
The surrounding New Forest is particularly appealing to people who enjoy walking and cycling. There are numerous routes through the forest, and the area’s famous ponies are one of its most recognisable sights.
The campsite is also a useful base for exploring nearby villages and enjoying the slower pace of the New Forest.
Forestry England lists a number of campsites in the New Forest and describes the area as offering forests, lakes, walking routes and access to nearby village pubs.
- Why nature lovers will like it: You get a chance to experience one of southern England’s most distinctive landscapes, with woodland, heathland, cycling routes and wildlife all close by.
- Useful planning tip: The New Forest is a protected and environmentally sensitive landscape. Stick to marked routes where appropriate, follow local campsite rules and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- More information: Forestry England – Camping
5. Gupton Farm Campsite, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Best for: Coastal scenery, beaches, sunsets and stargazing
Not every nature lover wants mountains. If you would rather hear waves than waterfalls, Gupton Farm Campsite in Pembrokeshire is an excellent alternative.
The campsite is close to Freshwater West, a dramatic Welsh beach known for its powerful surf and open coastal scenery. The surrounding area provides opportunities for coastal walks, wildlife watching, sunsets and stargazing.
The National Trust describes Gupton Farm as being near Freshwater West and surrounded by coastal paths and wetland habitats. The site accommodates tents, campervans and pods, making it more flexible than a basic tent-only campsite.
The Pembrokeshire coastline is the real attraction. You can spend the day walking beside the sea, exploring beaches and enjoying the changing scenery before returning to your pitch in the evening.
For photographers and anyone who enjoys peaceful evenings outdoors, the combination of coastal landscapes and dark skies can be especially appealing.
- Why nature lovers will like it: It combines camping with beaches, coastal walking, wildlife habitats, sunsets and open skies.
- Official information: National Trust – Camping and Glamping
6. Great Langdale Campsite, Lake District, England
Best for: Mountain scenery, hiking and waterfalls
Great Langdale Campsite is a fantastic choice if you want to wake up surrounded by some of the Lake District’s most impressive mountain scenery.
The campsite sits in the Langdale Valley, with the Langdale Pikes rising dramatically nearby. There are walking routes, waterfalls, small lakes and mountain trails that can be reached from the area, making it especially appealing to people who would rather spend their holiday outdoors than sightseeing in towns.
The campsite offers pitches for tents, campervans and motorhomes, along with camping pods. This makes it a useful option for different types of campers, from traditional tent campers to visitors who prefer a little more comfort.
One of the best things about Great Langdale is the scenery around the campsite. You don’t need to plan a complicated itinerary. A morning walk through the valley can be enough to make the trip worthwhile.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Dramatic mountains, waterfalls, valley walks and small lakes make Great Langdale an excellent base for exploring the Lake District.
- Official information: National Trust – Great Langdale Campsite
7. Upper Booth Farm Campsite, Peak District, England
Best for: Hiking, moorland and traditional camping
If you enjoy long countryside walks and traditional camping, Upper Booth Farm Campsite is one to consider.
The campsite is located below the Kinder Plateau in the Peak District and the famous Pennine Way passes directly through the farm. From the campsite, visitors can explore the surrounding valley and head towards places such as Kinder Scout and Kinder Downfall.
The atmosphere is relatively simple and peaceful, making it a good choice for people who want an unplugged outdoor break. The village of Edale is around a two-mile walk away, where visitors can find shops, cafés and pubs.
There are also marked trails and mapped routes around the area, so you can choose anything from a shorter countryside walk to a more demanding day on the hills.
For campers who enjoy putting on their walking boots in the morning and spending most of the day exploring, this location makes a lot of sense.
- Why nature lovers will like it: The Pennine Way, open moorland, hills and walking routes are all part of the experience.
- Official information: National Trust – Upper Booth Farm Campsite
8. Brownsea Island Campsite, Dorset, England
Best for: Wildlife, island camping and coastal scenery
For something completely different, why not camp on an island?
Brownsea Island Campsite is located in Poole Harbour in Dorset. The island has beaches, woodland, heathland, reedbeds, lakes and a lagoon, creating a surprisingly varied natural environment in a relatively small area.
Brownsea Island is particularly famous for its red squirrels. The National Trust says visitors can often join guided walks to look for them, while trails across the island provide opportunities to explore its wildlife and landscapes.
The campsite offers several accommodation choices, including traditional tent pitches, tree tents, furnished bell tents and shepherd’s huts.
Because it is on an island, the experience feels different from an ordinary countryside campsite. You can spend your day exploring trails and beaches before returning to your camping area in the evening.
The 2026 season is listed as running from 3 April to 28 September, with a minimum stay of two nights, so checking the current dates before planning your trip is important.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Wildlife, beaches, woodland, heathland and the unusual experience of staying on an island make Brownsea Island particularly memorable.
- Official information: National Trust – Brownsea Island Campsite
9. Eskdale Campsite, Lake District, England
Best for: River walks, valleys and peaceful countryside
Eskdale is a good choice if you want the Lake District experience without staying in one of its busiest areas.
The campsite is set low in the Eskdale Valley, with walking routes following the river and continuing up through the surrounding fells towards small mountain lakes. There are also village pubs within walking distance, which is a nice bonus after a day outdoors.
The campsite sits on around eight acres of meadow grassland and provides space for tents, campervans, motorhomes and camping pods.
One of the attractions of Eskdale is its combination of accessibility and scenery. You can spend a day walking through the valley or plan a more ambitious hike into the fells.
It also works well for campers who want a peaceful base rather than a campsite packed with entertainment.
- Why nature lovers will like it: River walks, open meadows, mountain scenery and access to the wider Lake District make Eskdale a strong choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Official information: National Trust – Eskdale Campsite
10. Highertown Farm Campsite, Cornwall, England
Best for: Coastal walks, beaches and a peaceful countryside escape
If you prefer the coast to the mountains, Highertown Farm Campsite in Cornwall is worth considering.
The campsite is close to the South West Coast Path and Lansallos Cove, giving visitors easy access to coastal scenery and countryside walking. The National Trust describes it as a relaxed campsite near the coast path and a quiet beach at Lansallos Cove.
This is the sort of place where the surrounding landscape becomes the main attraction. You can spend the morning walking along the coast, stop at the beach, and return to the campsite for a quiet evening.
The campsite accommodates tents as well as campervans and motorhomes, with some pitches offering electric hook-ups.
For people who enjoy coastal photography, walking and quieter beaches, it can be a particularly appealing part of Cornwall to explore.
- Why nature lovers will like it: The combination of coastal paths, countryside and access to a quieter Cornish beach makes this a great option for a slower outdoor holiday.
- Official information: National Trust – Highertown Farm Campsite
11. Wasdale Hall Campsite, Lake District, England
Best for: Lakeside scenery, hiking and peaceful mountain landscapes
Wasdale is one of the most impressive corners of the Lake District, and this campsite is a good option for travellers who want to spend more time surrounded by mountains and open countryside.
The area sits close to Wastwater, often admired for its dramatic views and peaceful setting. Walkers can explore the valley or use the area as a starting point for more challenging mountain routes.
One of the biggest attractions is the combination of water and mountains. Early mornings can be particularly beautiful when the valley is quiet and the surrounding peaks are reflected in the lake.
It is a good choice for campers who don’t need lots of entertainment on-site. The landscape itself provides most of the entertainment.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Wastwater, mountain trails, open countryside and peaceful surroundings create a classic Lake District camping experience.
- Planning tip: Check the current campsite opening dates, facilities and vehicle restrictions before travelling.
12. Lydford Gorge Campsite, Devon, England
Best for: Woodland walks, waterfalls and dramatic scenery
Lydford Gorge is a great destination for anyone who enjoys discovering natural landscapes on foot.
The area is famous for its wooded gorge and waterfall, creating a very different camping experience from open mountain or coastal sites. Walking through the woodland gives you the opportunity to experience the landscape at a slower pace.
The surrounding Devon countryside also offers plenty of opportunities for longer walks and exploring small villages.
For families and casual walkers, the area can be particularly appealing because you don’t need to plan an extreme hiking adventure to enjoy the scenery.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Woodland, streams, gorge scenery and waterfalls make this a rewarding destination for campers who enjoy exploring natural features.
- Planning tip: Wear shoes with good grip, particularly after wet weather, as woodland and gorge paths can become slippery.
13. Wasdale Campsite, Cumbria, England
Best for: Serious hikers and dramatic mountain scenery
If your idea of camping involves spending the day on the hills, Wasdale deserves another look.
The surrounding area includes some of England’s most famous mountain routes, while Wastwater provides a spectacular natural setting for more relaxed walks.
The landscape changes considerably throughout the year. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer provides longer walking days, and autumn can add beautiful colours to the surrounding countryside.
Campers planning mountain walks should prepare carefully. Mountain weather can be very different from conditions at lower elevations, so checking the forecast and route conditions before setting out is important.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Few places combine a dramatic lake, high mountains and extensive walking opportunities quite as well.
- Planning tip: If you’re planning to climb a major summit, carry suitable navigation equipment and make sure the route matches your experience.
14. Great Langdale Campsite, Cumbria, England
Best for: Families, walkers and classic Lake District views
Great Langdale is another excellent choice for anyone who wants to combine camping with some of the Lake District’s most recognisable landscapes.
The campsite sits within the Langdale Valley, surrounded by impressive fells. There are walks suitable for different abilities, so you don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the area.
For a relaxed day, you can simply explore the valley. More experienced walkers can choose longer routes into the surrounding hills.
The area also gives visitors a chance to experience the quieter side of the Lake District, particularly if they explore early in the morning or later in the day.
- Why nature lovers will like it: Mountain views, valley walks, waterfalls and fresh countryside air make Great Langdale a strong all-round camping destination.
- Planning tip: Popular periods can become busy, so booking ahead is sensible if you’re travelling during school holidays or summer weekends.
15. Stackpole Campsite, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Best for: Coastal walks, beaches and wildlife
For campers who prefer the sea, Stackpole in Pembrokeshire offers a wonderful combination of countryside and coastline.
The surrounding Stackpole Estate has woodland, lakes, cliffs and beaches to explore. Walkers can follow sections of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and discover secluded corners of the coastline.
The area is particularly attractive for photographers. Depending on the weather and time of day, the cliffs and sea can look completely different.
You can also spend a slower day exploring the estate rather than committing to a long coastal walk.
- Why nature lovers will like it:: Coastal scenery, beaches, woodland, wildlife and walking trails provide plenty to explore without needing to travel far from the campsite.
- Planning tip: Coastal weather can change quickly. Take a waterproof layer and check tide and weather information if you’re planning a long coastal walk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best camping sites in the UK for nature lovers?
- Wasdale, Cloud Farm, Hafod y Llan, Great Langdale and Stackpole are excellent choices for mountains, forests, rivers, wildlife and coastal scenery.
What is the best time to go camping in the UK?
- Late spring and summer are popular because of longer days and generally milder weather. Early autumn can also be beautiful and quieter.
Are UK campsites suitable for beginners?
- Yes. Many campsites offer toilets, showers, water points and other basic facilities, making them suitable for first-time campers.
Can I go wild camping anywhere in the UK?
- No. Wild-camping rules vary across the UK. In England and Wales, you generally need the landowner’s permission, while Scotland has different access rights and responsibilities.
What should I pack for camping in the UK?
- Bring a suitable tent, sleeping bag, waterproof clothing, warm layers, walking shoes, food, water, a torch, navigation equipment and basic first-aid supplies.
Which UK camping sites are best for hiking?
- Wasdale, Hafod y Llan, Upper Booth Farm and Great Langdale are particularly good choices for campers who want easy access to walking and hiking routes.
Are coastal campsites available in the UK?
- Yes. Places such as Stackpole in Pembrokeshire and Gupton Farm offer access to beautiful coastal landscapes, beaches and walking routes.
Should I book a UK campsite in advance?
- It’s recommended, especially during weekends, school holidays and the summer season. Popular campsites can fill up quickly.
Is camping in the UK possible outside summer?
- Yes. Some campsites operate in spring and autumn, and selected sites may offer winter camping. Always check opening dates and weather conditions before travelling.
How can I camp responsibly?
- Take your rubbish with you, respect wildlife, follow local rules, stay on appropriate paths, keep noise low and leave the natural environment as you found it.
Hi, I’m Rasel Miah, the creator of Ultimate Travel Diary. I enjoy exploring travel destinations, hotels, local food, and hidden gems across the USA and beyond. Through this blog, I share travel guides, hotel reviews, and helpful tips based on personal research and experience to help travelers plan better trips.