Campsites in the Lake District: our pick of the best

Why go camping in the Lake District?

For walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, the Lake District is one of the UK's top camping and touring destinations, whatever the season and whatever the weather.

England's largest national park, the Lake District, boasts claims to faim such as the England's deepest lake, Wastwater, the country's largest lake, Windermere, and England's highest mountain, Scafell Pike. Yet, it's not just about records; the true allure lies in the captivating natural landscapes. The diverse lakes, from forested Thirlmere to vast Windermere, offer a playground for various activities - sailing, canoeing, kayaking, and more. For a leisurely experience, boat hires allow lazy afternoons drifting on tranquil waters. The region's charm extends to lesser-known tarns, accessible only by foot, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in this picturesque haven.

How long you need to spend in the Lake District depends on how much you want to see and do. You could walk for miles and not revisit the same spot, thus easily filling up a week's worth of sightseeing. Equally, base yourself somewhere close to one of the main lakes, such as Windermere, and you could just enjoy a long weekend exploring closer to your Lake District campsite base.

Places to visit in the Lake District

In the enchanting Lake District, a myriad of activities awaits. Traverse the historic depths of Honister Slate Mine or explore the opulent Muncaster Castle and its sprawling gardens. Cruise the tranquil waters of Windermere, absorbing the stunning surroundings. Step into literary history at Beatrix Potter's Hill Top or into the daily life of poet William Wordsworth at Dove Cottage. Savor the spirits of The Lakes Distillery and meet alpacas on-site. Take a Ullswater Steamers cruise for breathtaking views, including Wordsworth’s daffodils in spring. Embark on challenging hikes up Scafell Pike or enjoy the scenic tranquility of Wastwater. The Lake District, a tapestry of nature and culture, beckons with endless delights.

Things to do in the Lake District

The Lake District is a walker’s paradise with over 1,800 miles of well-signed footpaths for all levels of ability to choose from. Experienced walkers enjoy the challenge of some famous peaks, including Scafell Pike, Skiddaw, and the Old Man of Coniston. It's best to go prepared before you try and conquer these heights as some of these climbs can be challenging, especially in poor weather. For those who would prefer a more genteel amble, there are plenty of shorter walks around the lakes, towns, and villages, offering unforgettable views.

Watersports are also hugely popular in the Lake District, thanks to the various lakes that give the region its name. Around lakes such as Windermere and Derwentwater there are plenty of points to launch boats or you can choose to try canoeing, kayaking and windsurfing.

Adrenline junkies will be right at home on a Lake District campsite with local activities including climbing, caving and abseiling. Activity centres are easy to find, offering experienced instructors and equipment for hire.

Families have plenty to choose from, too. The Lake District Wildlife Park is home to over 100 species and makes a great day out or if underwater creatures are more your thing then The Lakes Aquarium has clownfish, otters, piranhas and more. Lovers of books can head to The World of Beatrix Potter to follow the stories of your favourite characters such as Benjamin Bunny, or maybe you want to solve puzzles and illusions at The Puzzling Place in the centre of Keswick, which is a great option for rainy days.

Best campsites in the Lake District

Campsites in the Lake District vary in the facilities offered. Some are a more back to nature, wild camping experience (but with modern facilities) putting you right in the heart of the stunning Lake District landscape. Others have more going on, such as swimming pools and restaurants and as such, are great for a family holiday in the Lake District. Prices for Lake District campsites also vary, with those offering a wider choice of facilities generally costing that little bit more.

Pennine View Park is a family-run site on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, a mile from the centre of the historic market town of Kirkby Stephen and its railway station. It's also a short drive from both the Lake District National Park and the North Pennines, meaning that there are lots of walks and cycle routes nearby catering for all tastes from gentle country strolls to challenging mountain bike trails. Other activities nearby include fishing, horse riding and paragliding, and there are countless villages, castles and natural attractions within easy reach as well. All the attractions of Kirkby Stephen, including its shops, pubs and places to eat, are just a short walk away from the campsite.

The site has a playground, washing-up area, a launderette and washrooms with free hot showers, baby bath, accessible facilities and a relaxed, rustic on-site bar.

Find out more: Pennine View Park  

Stephen & Julie Shepherd, with their family, run this caravan & camping site set in 210 acres of farmland. At dusk or dawn, you may spot the resident Barn Owl hunting for food, or bats, which are fascinating to watch darting to and fro in the evening sky.

Shepherds Views is set within a backdrop of the Wasdale Hills & Valley. There is a selection of fully serviced hard standing or grass pitches for caravans and a large grassed area for camping, complimented by an immaculate family/unisex amenity building.

Shepherds Views is ideally situated for keen cyclists as it is near the start of Hadrian’s Cycleway which takes you from Ravenglass to South Shields, passing the entrance to our site. Also in and around the local area are cycle routes for all cycling abilities from country lanes to extreme mountain biking.

There is an 18 hole golf course and also flat green bowling facilities within one mile. The site is one mile from a beautiful sandy beach and close to the fells, ideal for walking and climbing, or just for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding area.

Find out more: Shepherds Views Holidays  

Stanwix Park, situated on Cumbria's Solway coast next to a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers visitors breath-taking views, sunsets over the Solway Firth and is just minutes away from the popular Victorian seaside town of Silloth, with its 36-acre green, striking promenade and sandy west beach.

Stanwix offers relaxation, fun and excitement in one place - everything you need to make your family holiday one to remember!

There's a spa area which includes: sauna; steam room; experience showers; foot spas and heated loungers in addition to a 29-metre leisure pool, jacuzzi, outdoor swimming pool and gym. There's also JJ's Bowl - the latest in ten-pin bowling technology and family entertainment! Other features also include family entertainment shows, adult cabaret, daytime activities, a café, shop and arcades. For those who don't want to miss any of the sporting action while they're away from home, Sky & BT Sport is also available.

Stanwix offers a choice of pitches for tents, touring caravans and motorhomes as well as maxi camping pods. The park is pet-friendly so you can bring all your family members on holiday! A maximum of two pets will be accepted per booking.

Find out more: Stanwix Park