Camping in Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve

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This inviting tract of beach and vegetated dunes forms the central swathe of the Sefton Coast, a long line of sand between Liverpool and Southport. The Ainsdale Sand Dunes NNR, alongside several other reserves, protect the area’s dune grasslands and Corsican pinewoods, which rise behind the beach and offer diverse habitat for endangered creatures like natterjack toad. Caravan campers fare better than those with just tents along the coast thanks to touring parks at Formby and Ainsdale—tent campers should try heading a bit inland for the best bets.

98% (792) • 1,758 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve

Stretton House Campsite

1. Stretton House Campsite

95%
(37)
England · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
If you like the sound of having farm shops and ice cream farms nearby, as well as access to lots of walking and cycling trails, Stretton House Campsite should be a fine pick for you. It has a strict no noise policy after 10pm, meaning that you should get a peaceful night's sleep too. This site is in the grounds of the 400-year-old Stretton House surrounded by the Cheshire countryside with handy transport links nearby and outdoor activities in no short supply… that includes things like alpaca walking, golf or Manley Mere’s watersports haven (a 20-minute drive away for the latter). You’ll have your pick of two fields, both with car parking by the pitch free of charge and dogs allowed. The facilities include separate male and female toilet blocks, pay per use shower block, mobile phone charging facilities, free wifi and chemical toilet disposal and a drinking water standpipe. You’ll have permission to start up a barbecue or firepit too (subject to the correct safety measures). When you’re ready to get going, the friendly owners will be willing to help out however they can and suggest possible days out, which may include fishing or walking at Pickmere Lake (10 minutes’ drive), visiting an ice cream farm (within 10 minutes’ drive of the site) or going to the local golf course (five minutes’ drive). For food, there’s a farm shop just two minutes’ walk away from the site where you’ll be able to get your hands on local produce. Pubs aren’t far away either – there is one pub five minutes' walk away, and another 15 minutes' walk away. Festival goers are very welcome, and the Creamfields Festival site is five minutes’ drive away. Please respect the quiet hours (no noise is permitted after 10pm) and environment, as the owners' home is on the grounds (and stick to the field's facilities only). No waste accepted onsite. All rubbish must be taken home at the end of your stay.
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Marbury Camp and Lodge

2. Marbury Camp and Lodge

97%
(18)
England · 23 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, simple family run camping and glamping site on the Cheshire / Shropshire border with local market towns a stones throw away. Around an hour away from Manchester, Liverpool, Chester and Birmingham, but most definitely far enough away for a break from city life. Great pubs within 30 mins walking distance and close to Cycle Routes, Walking Routes, Farm Shop Cafes, Markets, Supermarkets, a Gin Distillery (open to the public), three wedding venues, a kids tree top adventure amusement park, just to name a few. If camping isn’t for you, book one of our 4 glamping pods complete with central heating, a shower/WC, TV and cooking facilities. Small licensed shop on site. For the best rates, call 01948 502250. Hollyhurst Road, Marbury, SY13 4LY Electricity is 5 Euros per night.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Woodsworth Exploring

3. Woodsworth Exploring

98%
(81)
Ilkley, England · 12 units
Nearly wild woodland camping in West Yorkshire’s Bronte country
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Oakwood Marina

4. Oakwood Marina

93%
(89)
Northwich, England · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Canal-side camping with campfires, set in 30 acres of countryside and with an on-site tea rooms
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Plas Issa Escapes

5. Plas Issa Escapes

Wrexham, Wales · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Plas Issa is a small, peaceful farmstead set in the foothills between Wrexham and Llangollen, where every corner of the land has its own character. Our escapes are designed to give guests space, calm, and a genuine connection to nature, without crowds, noise, or packed‑in pitches. We offer a handful of meadow tent pitches plus a premium, exclusive motorhome/campervan pitch tucked into a sheltered wooded bank beside the stream. Each area has been shaped by the land itself: open meadows with big skies, quiet hedgerows alive with birds, and a rising ridge that gives panoramic views across the valley. Our tent pitches sit in a gentle meadow with plenty of room to spread out, relax, and enjoy the scenery. It’s simple, natural camping with easy access and a peaceful atmosphere. For motorhomes and campervans, Brookwood Bank is our unique one‑pitch escape: a hardstanding spot with exclusive access to the wooded bank and stream. It’s sheltered, quiet, and perfect for guests who want privacy and a more premium, nature‑immersed stay. Across the farm you’ll find wildlife, walking routes, stargazing opportunities, and a sense of calm that makes people slow down the moment they arrive. We’re adults‑friendly, dog‑friendly, and focused on offering a respectful, low‑impact experience that fits the landscape. Plas Issa is not a holiday park, it’s a working farmstead with distinct pockets of land, each offering its own escape. Whether you’re here for a quiet night under the stars, a weekend of walking, or a peaceful campervan retreat, you’ll find space to breathe and a warm welcome.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Mynydd Derwydd Wildcamping

6. Mynydd Derwydd Wildcamping

97%
(82)
Corwen, Wales · 7 units
Adventurous mountain-top camping on a hill farm in North Wales
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Tower Farm

7. Tower Farm

100%
(2)
Wales · 11 units · Motorhomes, Glamping
Tower Farm is nestled beneath Castell Dinas Bran in the stunning Vale of Llangollen, North Wales. Just a 15 minute walk from the town centre with its many attractions and activities, and only 2 minutes from the Royal Pavilion, it offers the perfect base for guests looking to explore the area’s natural beauty and adventure opportunities. Accommodation includes a 2 bedroomed cottage, 4 electric, hardstanding/grass caravan pitches, 4 electric, hardstanding caravan/motorhome pitches and 1 shepherd's hut with 2 more coming soon. Please note that we don't have communal toilets/showers for the caravan/motorhome pitches currently, expected August. Also, please note that this is an adults only site. Please note that we do not currently have communal toilets/showers for the caravans/motorhomes, these will be available in August. Sorry, we don't accommodate camping.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Moss Side Farm Campsite

8. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%
(134)
Broughton In Furness, England · 25 units
Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

9. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%
(167)
Millom, England · 34 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Moss Rose Campsite

10. Moss Rose Campsite

98%
(89)
Pilling, Preston, England · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. The member of you're family who book the pitch must be 21 or over. We are surrounded by a young trees &woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.
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Edgerton quarry camp

11. Edgerton quarry camp

100%
(1)
Colne, England · 12 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Quiet gated site within a disused quarry wall. On the edge of the village. Makes an excellent base for walkers, cyclist or motorcycle trials riders as within easy reach of moorland and Inch Perfect for trials riders. Local pubs close by and farm shop amenities. Well behaved dogs are welcome . A beautiful location on the border with north and West Yorkshire so a great base for exploring Also very good base for local festivals in Trawden and Colne, such as the Blues festival. Water access available.
Pets
Campfires
Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

12. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%
(7)
England · 46 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Nestled in the heart of breathtaking countryside, Brayshaw View Campsite offers a peaceful retreat with stunning panoramic views, fresh air, and the perfect spot to unwind. From scenic hiking trails to charming local villages, explore the best spots to visit, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Discover Local Places Uncover hidden gems, charming villages, and scenic spots waiting to be explored. Experience the best of the local area, from historic landmarks to breathtaking nature trails. Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Settle Malham Bolton Abbey Pendle Hill Gisburn Forest Things to Do Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy outdoor activities, experiences, and family-friendly fun to make the most of your stay. Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Ingleborough Cave Ingleton Falls White Scar Caves Vertical Skills Thornton Hall Farm Skipton Boat Trips Skipton Castle Places To Eat & Drink Enjoy a taste of the local area with welcoming pubs serving hearty meals and refreshing drinks. Whether you’re after a traditional pint or a homemade bite to eat, you’ll find a warm atmosphere and friendly service. Crow Trees Inn The Plough Bike Hire & Training Explore the great outdoors with bike hire and training options for all levels. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous ride or a leisurely cycle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Campfires
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Potable water
Puddlemire

13. Puddlemire

98%
(63)
Kirkby Lonsdale, England · 21 units · Tents, Glamping
Camping in countryside between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Stock Park Lakeside Camping

14. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

93%
(101)
Grizedale, England · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Dolwen Riverside Camping

15. Dolwen Riverside Camping

100%
(27)
Denbigh, Wales · 8 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Peaceful, riverside camping in North Wales
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Tree Tops and Train Tracks

16. Tree Tops and Train Tracks

100%
(21)
Mold, Wales · 9 units · Tents, Glamping
Woodland camping on the edge of the Clwydian Range in North Wales
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
Hazel Mount Fellside

17. Hazel Mount Fellside

96%
(56)
Eskdale, England · 5 units
Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Pentre Du Camping Club

18. Pentre Du Camping Club

96%
(83)
Colwyn Bay, Wales · 40 units
Simply good camping with campfires allowed near Colwyn Bay
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Campfires
Showers
Brig O Doon Caravan Site

19. Brig O Doon Caravan Site

100%
(1)
Tarporley, England · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Located close to Chester, United Kingdom, Brig O Doon Caravan Site offers a unique camping experience for Motorhomes/Campervans/Caravans just a 2-minute walk away from Oulton Park. Enjoy nature and adventure right at your doorstep. We are a dog friendly site, we just ask to keep furry friends on a lead so everyone can enjoy their stay. We are lucky to have beautiful walks outside our gates through the Little Budworth Common. Follow the signs for Oulton Country Park Touring Site.
Pets
Water hookup
Potable water
Maes Heddwch/Peaceful Field

20. Maes Heddwch/Peaceful Field

100%
(32)
Ruthin, Wales · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Luxury Glamping or Meadow Camping at Maes Heddwch/Peaceful Field you can really get the 'away from it all feeling' on our small holding and wild flower meadow 'Over the Moon’/'Dros y Lleuad'. Our award winning luxury ensuite Shepherds Hut sleeps two adults in a comfy king-size double bed, is nestled in our enclosed orchard Visit all year round for weekends or longer stays. In the summer you can book a whole 3 Acre camping meadow for yourselves and/or friends and family. Popular with friendship groups and extended families for holidays and special occasions you have 24 hour exclusive access to the shelter if the Hay Barn and it's facilities. If you would like to be introduced to our sheep or hens please ask! One of the things people love about staying here is the amazing views - including watching the moon rise over the mountains. The developing Clwydian dark sky region means there are great views of the night sky and sometimes northern lights. You may just want to hang out and relax but there’s lots to do too! There are lovely local forest and waterside walks, neolithic burial sites, a stone circle, Osprey, butterfly and (if you are lucky) red squirrel watching, a secret waterfall and river swimming, easy and challenging off road cycling options, access to water sports. Or if you want to use a car to help get up higher the Clwydian and Berwyn Mountains and Eryri (Snowdon) National Park are all within a half an hour drive. If history and mooching is your thing we are just 5 miles from Ruthin - one of the oldest existing Tudor towns - boasting an historic gaol, a craft centre with regular exhibitions and a castle with a spa and peacocks. Denbigh with its stunning castle, Corwen, Llangollen, Llyn Tegid (Bala) and the North Wales Coast are easy to reach by car. There are also options for days out using public transport including taking a steam train. Please ask - they aren't all known to Google! The nearby village has a community run pub and shop with the Glan Llyn tafan offering food by local gastro company Sorbus. In fact there are loads of great little villages near by each with their own character and points of interest including great cafes, walks, Punjabi pub food, historic churches and sacred wells.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve camping guide

Where to go

Sefton Coast

Reaching from Crossens near Southport 21 miles down to Crosby on the edge of Merseyside, Sefton Coast is one of the UK’s most important sandy coastlines. The unbroken, gold-brown beachfront and epic dunes behind, containing 40% of the nationally rare dune slack habitat, make this area special—and it’s all linked by coastal trail. Camping on the coast is difficult, but small-scale campsites can be found just a short way from the water.

Leeds & Liverpool Canal

This fully navigable 127-mile waterway between Liverpool and Leeds pulls off engineering feats a-plenty—negotiating the steep contours of the Pennines, for example—but just as it provides excellent narrow-boating, walking, and cycling, the canal’s camping possibilities are also impressive. The canal loops to within seven miles east of Ainsdale Sands near Downholland—look out for farm glamping near Lathom for a sleep in a fully furnished bell tent.

Ribble Estuary

North of Crossens and about five miles northeast of Ainsdale Sand Dunes NNR, the sand merges into the marsh and mudflats of the Ribble Estuary, one of England’s largest saltmarshes. Over half the estuary is protected as an NNR, and its south side has the best camping. It’s a brilliant area for wildlife-watching, especially for wildfowl.

West Pennine Moors

A locally popular but nationally little-known chunk of stark moorland, the West Pennine Moors swoop east of Chorley, 25 miles east of Ainsdale Sand Dunes. The handiest parts of this outdoor playground are Anglezarke and Rivington Moors, where two long reservoirs divide the higher ground from the conurbation to the west. The region offers great contrasts with the Ainsdale area’s flat, sandy coastscape, as well as charming campsites with several hiking routes into the wilder terrain beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

The canal loops to within seven miles east of Ainsdale Sands near Downholland—look out for farm glamping near Lathom for a sleep in a fully furnished bell tent. You can also explore different options for camping near Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve on Hipcamp.

Over half the estuary is protected as an NNR, and its south side has the best camping. It’s a brilliant area for wildlife-watching, especially for wildfowl. You can also explore different options for camping near Ainsdale Sand Dunes National Nature Reserve on Hipcamp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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