Whether you’re a family with restless kids that need constant entertainment, or a couple wanting a remote escape where you can explore the local fells, I’ve cherry-picked some of the best campsites in the Lake District to help you choose the right one for you.
Wasdale Campsite, Wasdale Head
Nestled in one of the more remote areas of the Lake District, Wasdale Head National Trust campsite sits in the western valley at the northern end of Wastwater. Known for its rugged beauty and the nearby fells of Great Gable, Scafell and Red Pike, walkers will be in their element. As well as tent pitches, there are camping pods and tipis available to hire. This is a peaceful campsite in a dramatic location and it’s one of the best spots for camping in the Lake District.
Facilities – Hot showers, toilets, washing machines and dryers, shop, dog friendly (must be on leads at all times).
Best for – Walkers and climbers
Sykeside Camping Park, Brotherswater
Blessed with the most incredible mountain scenery, Sykeside is one of the most beautiful camping spots in the Lake District. Set in the Dovedale Valley, you can wake each morning to views of Hart Crag, Dove Crag and Fairfield. There are plenty of places to visit just a short drive away such as Lowther Castle and Gardens, Ullswater and the market town of Penrith. You’ll also find plenty of dog friendly walks in this part of the Lake District.
Facilities – Toilets, hot showers, laundry room, shop, Barn End bar, dog friendly
Best for – Dogs and adults
The Quiet Site, Pooley Bridge
With a stunning location overlooking Ullswater, the Quiet Site has notched up many awards over the years. Although children are welcome here and it’s not classed as an adult only site in the Lake District, this is one of the more peaceful campsites. If you enjoy camping in the Lake District with dogs, this is definitely one of the best places to come. And did I mention it has one of the best onsite pubs? The Quiet Bar has a wonderful olde-worlde atmosphere with a roaring fire and live music. If you want to enjoy a more relaxing break without hiking up any fells, there are lots of gentler walks for beginners in the area.
Facilities – Toilets, hot showers, family bathrooms, laundry room, drying room, kitchen, children’s playground, dog walking area, shop, onsite bar.
Best for – Couples and dogs
Keswick Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Keswick
Resting on the shores of Derwentwater, this Keswick campsite enjoys breathtaking views. The site is just a stroll from Keswick town centre where there’s plenty of shops, bars and places to eat. If you prefer to don your walking boots and venture up one of the fells, you’ve got the likes of Catbells, Castle Crag and Walla Crag on your doorstep, so to speak. If you’re after a dog friendly campsite in the Lake District, you’re in luck as pets are always welcome here.
Facilities – Toilets, hot showers, parent and baby room, dog friendly, dishwashing facilities.
Best for – Dogs, families, walkers and climbers
Park Foot Holiday Park, Ullswater
Situated on the banks of Ullswater, Park Foot Holiday Park is a lively site with lots going on. Besides being able to take advantage of the water-based activities, Ullswater is one of the best lakes in the Lake District and is just a walk away from Pooley Bridge. This is a large site with lots of facilities for children. The Adventure Zone has activities such as biking, cliff jumping, gorge walking and archery, which will make sure the kids sleep well at night! The onsite clubhouse has a wide range of regular events for adults and children.
Facilities – Sailing, bike hire, tennis/football court, restaurant, clubhouse, pony trekking, toilets, hot showers, fishing, dog friendly, play area.
Best for – Families and dogs
Stonethwaite Farm Campsite, Borrowdale
Stonethwaite Farm Campsite is located in Borrowdale beneath the fells. It stands on the banks of Stonethwaite Beck and although it has very limited facilities, it provides the ultimate camping escape. It can be reached from the hamlet of Stonethwaite and offers several walking routes. It’s just a short distance from both Galleny Force Waterfall, also known as The Fairy Glen, and Black Moss Pot where you can enjoy wild swimming in the pools. The market town of Keswick is just 6 miles away, where you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and activity centres.
Facilities – Cold running water, toilets, pot wash facilities and reed bed system for waste.
Best for – Adults and dogs
Great Langdale Campsite, Langdale
Tucked away beneath the gaze of the Langdale Pikes, the Great Langdale Campsite is in a breathtaking setting surrounded by fells. There are countless walks and fells to tackle and although there are 175 pitches they soon get booked up owing to the popularity of the area. The site accommodates tents, motorhomes, campervans and pods and 2 dogs per pitch are allowed. As well as featuring lots of great facilities, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the Sticklebarn pub.
Facilities – Toilets and shower blocks, washing-up areas, a laundry/drying room, shop, play area, and BBQs
Best for – Families, walkers and dogs
Visit Campsites.co.uk to find more camping, touring and glamping sites in the Lake District.
Lake District Camping Mugs
