The best riverside campsites in the UK

Want a riverside somewhere specific? If you've got a specific location in mind or you want to narrow down your riverside camping options further, take a glance at some of our related guides...

From wild swimming to launching canoes and kayaks, explore stories about riverside camping and read our latest blogs on the topic...

From the banks of a burn in Scotland to a canoe-launching riverside in the Norfolk Broads, discover the very best riverside campsites for wild swimming, dam building, canoeing, kayaking and generally messing about in the water.

95% (4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Want a riverside somewhere specific? If you've got a specific location in mind or you want to narrow down your riverside camping options further, take a glance at some of our related guides...

From wild swimming to launching canoes and kayaks, explore stories about riverside camping and read our latest blogs on the topic...

From the banks of a burn in Scotland to a canoe-launching riverside in the Norfolk Broads, discover the very best riverside campsites for wild swimming, dam building, canoeing, kayaking and generally messing about in the water.

95% (4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Nut Plat Retreat

93%

(72)

3 units · Glamping · Kent, South East England

Antique living wagons on the banks of the River Bourne, with a charming orchard setting, a pub down the lane and a history unlike anywhere else

2. River Dove Camp

100%

(103)

10 units · Tents · Ashbourne, Derbyshire, East Midlands

A perfectly simple, riverside Hipcamp on the edge of the Peak District

3. Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe

95%

(148)

14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Warwickshire, England

Think Countryfile meets Time Team. Camping in six-acres of unspoiled Cotswold countryside, built in the grounds of a Norman castle.

4. Four Paws Glamping

3 units · Glamping · England

Four Paws is a luxury glamping site for you and your four legged friends to enjoy. Tucked away in the Welsh hills, on the outskirts of Aberystwyth, this secluded spot is perfect for unwinding and escaping the chaos of everyday life. Sit back and relax in the hot tub or on the decking, whilst your dog explores in the garden and collects a 'useful' pile of sticks for you!

5. Henbant Permaculture Farm + Camp

94%

(413)

12 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Caernarfon, Gwynedd, North Wales

A small, sustainable farm site with epic sea views, set in the foothills of Snowdonia.

6. Pytingwyn Woods

97%

(137)

8 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Brecon, Powys, Mid Wales

Almost-wild camping on the banks of the River Honddu, edging the Brecon Beacons

7. Campsite 360°

100%

(5)

24 units · Tents, Motorhomes · England

Campsite 360° – Wild Freedom in the Black Mountains Tucked away in the untamed beauty of the Black Mountains, Campsite 360° is a true off-grid retreat for those seeking peace, space, and adventure. With panoramic views stretching to the horizon, this wild, solar-powered haven offers a rare escape from the noise and rush of modern life. Wake to the sound of birdsong, breathe crisp mountain air, and watch the sun spill across rolling hills and valleys. Whether you pitch a tent under a starlit sky, park up your campervan in a secluded spot, or simply spend your days exploring, Campsite 360° is all about reconnecting with nature – and yourself. Our land is more than a campsite – it’s a living landscape. You’ll find open meadows, sheltered hollows, and vantage points perfect for soaking up 360-degree views. There are no bright city lights here, just a canopy of stars at night and the distant silhouette of mountains by day. We welcome solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups looking for a space to gather, celebrate, or simply unwind. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the surrounding Black Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. If relaxation is your goal, pull up a chair, light a campfire, and let the world drift away. Facilities & Features: Spacious, unmarked pitches for tents and campervans Off-grid, solar-powered amenities Fresh air and no traffic noise – just nature Fire pits available (wood supplied on request) Pet-friendly – dogs welcome on leads Stunning views in every direction Why Choose Campsite 360°? This is camping as it’s meant to be – simple, peaceful, and in harmony with the land. Our focus is on providing space and freedom, not crowded plots and strict schedules. You’re free to choose your spot, wander the land, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the natural world. If you’re looking for an authentic wild camping experience with the convenience of a welcoming base, you’ve found it. Come with an open mind, leave with a full heart.

8. The Barn KT9

97%

(271)

22 units · Tents, Glamping · Greater London, South East England

A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6

9. Pentwyn Dingle and Lodge Field Camp

97%

(55)

30 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Hay On Wye, Wales

Almost wild camping with good views, near the River Wye and Brecon Beacons

10. Great Haywood Canalside Campsite

96%

(57)

8 units · Tents · Staffordshire, West Midlands

The simplest of canalside campsites with narrowboats chugging past and an award-winning farm shop over the road

11. Daisy May’s Farm

87%

(178)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Bishop's Stortford, England

Our pop up campsite is set in 20 acres on a not for profit community farm. Come and join us in the great outdoors! Help collect the eggs, feed the chickens and milk the goat! There is always lots going on at Daisy May’s Farm! Children’s play areas, paddle stream, woodland walks and lots more! PITCH FEE INCLUDES ENTRY TO THE FARM & ALL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS! Open 7 days a week. Coffee Cabin and Ollie’s Food Hut also serving hot food (Weekends & school holiday 10-3pm) Local pub - 5 mins walk Golf Course (crazy golf, top golf, 9 hole course, bar and food) - 5 mins walk Shop/post office/chip shop - 10 mins walk Toilets & shower ; hot gas shower available but we are a basic wild, mostly off grid site. No concrete heated toilet blocks I’m afraid! (Showers unavailable in Winter months) There will be mud. Bring your wellies! Drinking water and bins available. Bring a torch for walking around the site at night. The site is off grid and the toilet lights are solar operated! CARAVANS - ONLY BOOKABLE MAY - SEPTEMBERTENTS - CAMPER VANS - MOTORHOMES WELCOME ALL YEAR (all pitches are the same. No need to specify which type of unit you are booking) We look forwards to welcoming you soon!

12. Little Ranch Glamping

100%

(12)

3 units · Glamping · Nantwich, England

Glamping on a charming smallholding beside the Llangollen Canal

13. Heygates Lodging

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · Market Harborough, Leicestershire, East Midlands

A place to unwind in the heart of the countryside. Canalside walks are on your doorstep and nature is never far away - birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards are plentiful, and you may be lucky enough to see otters in the canal. There's a variety of pubs and restaurants within a short drive, and the market towns of Rugby and Market Harborough area about 20 minutes away. Unwind in the hot tub, enjoy local beers and ciders or pick from our expertly curated wine list. Our Lodges have their own fire pits and BBQs, and all fuel is provided. Each lodge has its own hammock, and a designated private fishing peg at a turning point in the canal, meaning that you'll be largely undisturbed by passing boats.

14. The Enchanted Wilderness

93%

(43)

6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Yelverton, England

Simple riverside camping pitches in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor

15. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

16. The Pig Place Campsite

92%

(93)

45 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Oxfordshire, South East England

Canal-side camping for adults on a rustic Oxfordshire pig farm

17. Westland Farm

100%

(140)

21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Barnstaple, Devon, South West England

Camping and glamping on a working farm, with yurts, huts with hot tubs, and simple, spacious, sociable camping pitches

18. Graig Wen - Wild Snowdonia Escapes

98%

(275)

33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Gwynedd, North Wales

Succumb to the tranquil hills of Graig Wen. Smart, sustainable and quite simply, lush.

19. Nant Bach Retreat

100%

(27)

3 units · Glamping · Wales

Nantbach Retreat offers you the opportunity to step off the conveyor belt of life, reconnect with those most important to you and more importantly yourself. Nestled in our forest with far reaching views over rolling Welsh hills let your attention be focused on the beauty of nature that surrounds you. Choose to stay in either our 2 person bunkhouse with private camp kitchen and shower room, 4 person Landpod with retractable sides located in our forest or our new edition 3 person Pod Father located at the front of Nant overlooking open countryside. Truly unwind with a soak in the 2 person wood fired hot tub looking out to Madryn Garn to the left and Boduan Garn to the right, bookable with the hosts at no extra charge.

20. The Secret Garden

100%

(5)

3 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Newquay, Cornwall

2 sites to stay ruby rose for chalet or jasmine pitch for van This secret garden's is surrounded by the fields and tall hedges, a magical place, it’s in a world of its own and will certainly make those memories. * Private spacious camping in a very peaceful and beautiful space just for you and your favorites ! either with chalet on its own, van, tents or both :) chalet with double bed, single bed, bathroom, shower, tv mini kitchen, plates, kettle, cutlery, pots & pans, outside washing up area Chill in your massive jacuzzi with a your favourite drink and best tunes 🎶 (add on for Jasmine) * Picnic bench, garden, hot shower, flushing toilet, firepit (add on for Jasmine) * A very special gated garden to spend time out with your favourite people. Family friendly You may spot wild pheasants, chickens, indian runner ducks, our super friendly Bengal Cats! if you like them!😻 Your own furry friends are welcome as it is a gated secure garden. Enjoy the fire pit (wood and firelighters can be brought in advance) or bring your own :) Your car/van can park right outside the gate to your secret garden. (jasmine is another pitch) Lovely walk down the bottom of our lane to river gannel, bring your own paddle boards, kayaks, yourself for a swim :) From the river gannel if you walk from your garden it will take you to crantock beach and quant village, including the 2 local pubs worth a visit if your into our local history. Trenance 15 minute walk 0r 3 minute drive (walk the country back lane here to Trenance via river gannel for a beautiful nature walk) *Horse riding along the river gannel at Trenance riding stables *Trenance Boating lake, Tea rooms, rose gardens and Boat hire *Trenance Play park for the kids 5 mins walk to esso/budgens for essentials 24 hour 5 Mins car ride to the quant Crantock Village beach, or long walk to the beach. Tearooms, the outstanding C-bay day spa for an extra special day out. 1.2 miles into town, 10 min car ride to Newquay town centre to visit our beautiful Cornish beaches, harbour (fishing trips) golf course, chip shops, deliveroo do deliver here :) Lifts i can do for £10 back from town before 12am if your stuck :) Bus direct into Newquay town Center or any other part of Cornwall 4 minute walk down the lane :)

Camper favorites in United Kingdom

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Heygates Lodging

100%

(21)

2 units · Glamping · Market Harborough, Leicestershire, East Midlands

A place to unwind in the heart of the countryside. Canalside walks are on your doorstep and nature is never far away - birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards are plentiful, and you may be lucky enough to see otters in the canal. There's a variety of pubs and restaurants within a short drive, and the market towns of Rugby and Market Harborough area about 20 minutes away. Unwind in the hot tub, enjoy local beers and ciders or pick from our expertly curated wine list. Our Lodges have their own fire pits and BBQs, and all fuel is provided. Each lodge has its own hammock, and a designated private fishing peg at a turning point in the canal, meaning that you'll be largely undisturbed by passing boats.

The Enchanted Wilderness

93%

(43)

6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Yelverton, England

Simple riverside camping pitches in the Tamar Valley on the edge of Dartmoor

Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%

(29)

108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · King's Lynn, England

🌅 Hunstanton Camping & Glamping with mYminiBreak: The Coastal Escape Hunstanton Camping & Glamping offers a relaxed, back-to-basics coastal escape in Heacham, Norfolk. The site, a former dairy farm, maintains a peaceful, natural atmosphere, perfect for those looking to unplug. 🐾 Exceptionally Dog-Friendly Haven The site is dog-friendly, welcoming companions in all accommodation types. Its best feature is the immediate access to the sea, being just a quick 2-minute walk from the vast sands of Heacham South Beach. Crucially, this beach operates with no year-round restrictions for dogs, offering unrestricted playtime. 🌊 Prime Location and Local Area The site's unique west-facing position on the West Norfolk coast means guests witness spectacular sunsets directly over the sea—a daily, breathtaking ritual. You are perfectly situated to explore North Norfolk: Hunstanton: The nearby Victorian resort offers seaside fun and the famous striped cliffs of Old Hunstanton. Nature & Walks: Enjoy direct access to the Norfolk Coast Path and close proximity to the Wild Ken Hill rewilding project and Sandringham Estate for extensive hiking and wildlife spotting. Activities: The calm, shallow local waters are excellent for watersports like kayaking and paddleboarding. 🔥 Back-to-Basics Ethos and Core Facilities The ethos of the site embraces a simple, "back-to-basics" camping philosophy. Accommodation: Pitch your own tents, campervans, motorhomes, and caravans, or choose glamping in rustic Shepherd's Huts or spacious Bell Tents. Campfires: Campfires and BBQs are encouraged and allowed, with private fire pits/braziers provided for glamping units, perfect for gatherings under the clear, dark Norfolk skies Core Facilities: Essential amenities are clean and functional: shared toilet/shower blocks with hot water; designated washing-up station and access to fresh drinking water. Limited electric hook-ups are available for pitches upon request, though the emphasis is on a connected-to-nature experience. Wifi available. This site offers an unforgettable escape, blending traditional outdoor life with coastal charm.

The Pig Place Campsite

92%

(93)

45 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Oxfordshire, South East England

Canal-side camping for adults on a rustic Oxfordshire pig farm

Westland Farm

100%

(140)

21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Barnstaple, Devon, South West England

Camping and glamping on a working farm, with yurts, huts with hot tubs, and simple, spacious, sociable camping pitches

Graig Wen - Wild Snowdonia Escapes

98%

(275)

33 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Gwynedd, North Wales

Succumb to the tranquil hills of Graig Wen. Smart, sustainable and quite simply, lush.

Nant Bach Retreat

100%

(27)

3 units · Glamping · Wales

Nantbach Retreat offers you the opportunity to step off the conveyor belt of life, reconnect with those most important to you and more importantly yourself. Nestled in our forest with far reaching views over rolling Welsh hills let your attention be focused on the beauty of nature that surrounds you. Choose to stay in either our 2 person bunkhouse with private camp kitchen and shower room, 4 person Landpod with retractable sides located in our forest or our new edition 3 person Pod Father located at the front of Nant overlooking open countryside. Truly unwind with a soak in the 2 person wood fired hot tub looking out to Madryn Garn to the left and Boduan Garn to the right, bookable with the hosts at no extra charge.

The Secret Garden

100%

(5)

3 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · Newquay, Cornwall

2 sites to stay ruby rose for chalet or jasmine pitch for van This secret garden's is surrounded by the fields and tall hedges, a magical place, it’s in a world of its own and will certainly make those memories. * Private spacious camping in a very peaceful and beautiful space just for you and your favorites ! either with chalet on its own, van, tents or both :) chalet with double bed, single bed, bathroom, shower, tv mini kitchen, plates, kettle, cutlery, pots & pans, outside washing up area Chill in your massive jacuzzi with a your favourite drink and best tunes 🎶 (add on for Jasmine) * Picnic bench, garden, hot shower, flushing toilet, firepit (add on for Jasmine) * A very special gated garden to spend time out with your favourite people. Family friendly You may spot wild pheasants, chickens, indian runner ducks, our super friendly Bengal Cats! if you like them!😻 Your own furry friends are welcome as it is a gated secure garden. Enjoy the fire pit (wood and firelighters can be brought in advance) or bring your own :) Your car/van can park right outside the gate to your secret garden. (jasmine is another pitch) Lovely walk down the bottom of our lane to river gannel, bring your own paddle boards, kayaks, yourself for a swim :) From the river gannel if you walk from your garden it will take you to crantock beach and quant village, including the 2 local pubs worth a visit if your into our local history. Trenance 15 minute walk 0r 3 minute drive (walk the country back lane here to Trenance via river gannel for a beautiful nature walk) *Horse riding along the river gannel at Trenance riding stables *Trenance Boating lake, Tea rooms, rose gardens and Boat hire *Trenance Play park for the kids 5 mins walk to esso/budgens for essentials 24 hour 5 Mins car ride to the quant Crantock Village beach, or long walk to the beach. Tearooms, the outstanding C-bay day spa for an extra special day out. 1.2 miles into town, 10 min car ride to Newquay town centre to visit our beautiful Cornish beaches, harbour (fishing trips) golf course, chip shops, deliveroo do deliver here :) Lifts i can do for £10 back from town before 12am if your stuck :) Bus direct into Newquay town Center or any other part of Cornwall 4 minute walk down the lane :)

Stories from the community

P

Paul

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Pytingwyn Woods

This campsite is fantastic. We attend once a year in November. It has a somewhere to park, compost toilet and the great outdoors. The owner is a perfect gentleman. Always helpful, happy and accommodating. We will be back next year. Thank you!

e

erin

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat

Highly recommend, my partner and I had a great time at Finlay’s cabin. It was exactly what we were looking for in terms of: how remote & private it was, outdoor and indoor fire & the hot tub! We also loved the unique structure and authentic feel… however a few things to note, for the cost per night(£180) I would expect: body wash & shampoo / hairdryer, better kitchen essentials, the coffee left was almost empty for example and old stuff was left in the fridge& top shelf was left completely wet.. I know it’s ‘small’ things but for the price you’d expect these things to be attended to.. for us we didn’t mind too much, but would have made the experience a lot nicer to have these things to improve the overall feel and experience. Also I felt that in terms of cleanliness, it could have been cleaner, many cobwebs & spiders, hair and dirt in the bath tub, messy outdoor porch area; we wanted to use the outdoor bbq and had to clean it very well ourselves.. for the price you would expect it to be clean and ready to use with coals etc however we had to make do with the indoor logs with no fire starter as only option was the chemical indoor one which we didn’t want to use to cook food on.. making it difficult. The hotub area is lovely, however we wanted to use it at night which proved difficult as no outdoor lightning, and indoor torch didn’t work.. some lanterns outside would be a great addition. Duncan was a kind host and has a very special plot!

A

Andrea

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe

Easy to get on the pitches by ourselves and had the whole site for us, not surprising as it’s late November! Very quiet and loved it! We will be back again for the 3rd time

T

Tom

3 weeks ago

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Campsite 360°

Great spot, lovely views, nice and quiet - would come back!

P

Paul

3 weeks ago

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Pytingwyn Woods

I only stayed two night on my own but will definitely come back.

C

Chris

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campsite 360°

A fabulous remote and quiet location with fabulous views. It’s quite high up and exposed so pack some layers!

C

Chris

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pytingwyn Woods

Lovely little basic campsite, nice and close to Brecon town. Will definitely be staying here again in the near future

J

James

October 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Pytingwyn Woods

A really beautiful little spot for the night. Lots of places to pitch and the river flowing through provides a really nice backdrop.

C

Cassie

October 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

4 nights at Campsite 360°

Absolutely gorgeous spot !! Amazing Mountain View. Very basic but perfect for wanting to just chill in peace. The owner is so helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend for anyone wanting a quiet spot 😊

C

Chloe

October 2025

6 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Campsite 360°

Amazing campsite, stunning views in every direction. We stayed here after our foraging course in Hay on Wye and we were greeted by Ross, super friendly and welcoming host. We thoroughly enjoyed walking in the local area. We can't wait to go back next year.

P

Paul

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pytingwyn Woods

We had a great time during our stay at the site. We chose to camp by the small river that runs through the property and it was beautiful, almost like in the wild. Highly recommend!

J

Jonpaul

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Pytingwyn Woods

I was really impressed with the location and secondly the peace and quiet at the time of my camp. With the lovely sound of the river nearby it was an excellent stay. A great find.

E

Elisa

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Daisy May’s Farm

LOVED this stay. If your little one has sensitive ears you may need ear plugs/defenders as the aircrafts are rather loud. But over all, I loved this trip. Maybe need to take your own headlamp/torch as bathroom lamps were temperamental. Staff were amazing, everything well equipped. Would definitely recommend.

C

Charlie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend

R

Ryan

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

It is well organised, easy to access and you really do feel you are in the countryside/out in the wide open spaces. I highly recommend this site and aim to be back very soon!

C

Chris

September 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Henbant Permaculture Farm + Camp

A magical place - even in the torrential rain that persisted while we were there.

L

Liam

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Had such a great stay at The Barn!! Such a lovely campsite and it has everything you need for a relaxing stay! There are great walks in the local area and the on site cafe had amazing pastries! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a peaceful break!

M

Millie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Barn KT9

Great campsite, really peaceful, beautiful views and great amenities.