Woodland caravan parks near Bedford
From wild camping in the home counties to glamping it up in the Cotswolds, thereâs plenty for Hipcampers within two hours of this historic market town.
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Woodland caravan parks near Bedford guide
Overview
Nestled in the countryside just 90 minutes north of London, this county town and its scenic surrounds offer a glimpse of Englandâs wilder side. From secluded Thameside spots and green-belt glamping to family-friendly campgrounds on working farms, Hipcampers will find something that suits, while the wider regionâs historic castles, country houses, and National Trust trails offer plenty by way of outdoor adventure.
Where to go
Bedfordshire
From reclaimed woodland around the Forest of Marston Vale to rich wetland along the River Great Ouse, thereâs plenty to discover around Bedford. The regionâs sprawling countryside offers plenty of camping options, including private working farms and riverside sites. Canoeing, horse riding, and cycling are all popular pastimes here, while ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is an ideal day trip attraction for Hipcampers with kids.
Hertfordshire
Nestled between London and Bedfordshire, this home county is a convenient launch point for exploration of south and east England. The enormous Lee Valley Park extends from the Hertfordshire town of Ware all the way to the East India Docks in the capital, and is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, angling, and riverside camping. Beyond, miles of agricultural and green belt land provide plenty of (almost) wild camping opportunities.
Buckinghamshire
This rural county just south of Bedford is home to National Trust properties, sprawling parks, and scenic valleys, making it a top destination for hikers and bikers, as well as history lovers. Outdoor attractions include Boarstall Duck Decoy, Black Park, and Langley Park, while tent and caravan pitches can be found throughout the regionâs farmland and along the Bucks stretch of the Thames.
Chiltern Hills AONB
An hour southwest of Bedford, this Area of Natural Beauty boasts bridleways, cycleways, and national trails that take adventurers deep into quintessential English countryside, and the successful reintroduction of red kites has made this a popular place for birdwatching. Glampers, caravanners, and wild campers are catered for across the regionâs private farms and campgrounds.
The Cotswolds AONB
One of Englandâs most famous landscapes, the Cotswolds encompasses rolling hills, river valleys, and scenic villages that makes the region a ramblerâs paradise. From Bedford, the protected region can be reached in just under two hours by car. Glamping is an increasingly popular option for overnight adventurers, though holiday parks and back-to-basics campgrounds are also common.
When to go
Englandâs great outdoors can be explored at any time of year, with many campgrounds remaining open year-round, though winter wanderers should be prepared for the cold weather. July to August are the busiest times of year, so itâs best to book accommodation well in advanceâAreas of Natural Beauty get particularly booked up.
Know before you go
- Public transport is fairly reliable around Bedford, though it can be useful to have a private vehicle to reach more secluded spots.
- Gear can sometimes be rented on site. Otherwise, there are plenty of supply shops in central Bedford.
