The best campsites near Bedford with horseback riding

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Nestled in the countryside just 90 minutes north of London, this county town and its scenic surrounds offer a glimpse of England’s 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 region’s historic castles, country houses, and National Trust trails offer plenty by way of outdoor adventure.

94% (185) 101 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bedford

Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%
(178)
125km from Bedford · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£16
 / night
The T Barn

2. The T Barn

99%
(90)
108km from Bedford · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£29
 / night
Whitlingham Broad Campsite

3. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%
(164)
132km from Bedford · 72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£14
 / night
Sunnyside Campsite

4. Sunnyside Campsite

138km from Bedford · 1 unit · Glamping
Easy camping on a small site in Suffolk
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£70
 / night
Snettisham Meadows

5. Snettisham Meadows

96%
(24)
105km from Bedford · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Set on a traditional family-run farm in rural Norfolk, Snettisham Meadows is on the outskirts of the pretty village of Snettisham and short drive away from North Norfolk's beautiful white sandy beaches. Animal-mad campers, form an orderly queue please, as this 329-acre farm has several attractions up its sleeve for you, including meet-and-greets with pigs and ponies, lamb feeding in spring and deer safaris. There’s also a dog paddock for rent so four-legged companions can have a frisk around, and an area on the camping field is reserved for guests with dogs. Campfires and barbecues are permitted and you can borrow firepits from the site owners. Logs are also available to buy. The site is only 10 minutes’ walk from a village pub if you fancy a change of scenery. After a fun-filled day exploring this lovely part of Norfolk, come back to your pitch and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and some serious stargazing. Facilities include washing-up sinks, a small shop at reception for essential supplies and tourist information, USB phone charging and a freezer for ice packs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£22
 / night
Quaint Farm in a National Park

6. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(26)
126km from Bedford · 2 units · Glamping
Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way.​ Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£125
 / night
The Old Vicarage

7. The Old Vicarage

79%
(17)
130km from Bedford · 6 units · Tents, Glamping
The Old Vicarage offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere for your stay for camping. We have BBQ's, camp fires to hire and have the shallow river to play in. Free Wifi. Well behaved dogs allowed on leads at all times. Riverside site in grounds of a 17th-century house in Nottinghamshire Close to Sherwood Forest and 25 miles from Nottingham Cave bar on site open on Bank Holidays You'll sense the history all around you at The Old Vicarage, from the old house to the remains of the water mill in the river bed. Stays here are in the grounds of a 17th-century house in the village of Elkesley, six miles from Worksop and 25 miles from Nottingham. Its grounds run down to the banks of the Poulter river, and are lined with stands of acacia, sycamore, ash and oak trees which were originally donated to the first vicar by the Duke of Newcastle in the 1830s. There's plenty of space around the site for traditional outdoor activities, with a rope swing and stepping stones over the shallow river and a bridge that's perfect for playing Pooh Sticks. In the surrounding area there are animal parks and nature reserves to walk around, or to head back further in time, you could take one of the trails through ancient Sherwood Forest, around quarter of an hour's drive away. Guest facilities on site centre around the Cave Bar, a cool little space built into an exposure of 500-million-year-old sandstone, plus an outdoor terrace for sipping drinks out in the sunshine. Other amenities include a washing-up area and bathrooms with plentiful hot showers, toilets and baby changing facilities. No Fire Pits BBQ;s off the floor. No disposable BBQ;s CHECK IN BETWEEN 2PM AND 6PM CHECK INS AFTER 6PM INCUR A FEE OF £10.00 FOR LATE CHECK IN
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£28
 / night
Woodlands Camping

8. Woodlands Camping

97%
(104)
128km from Bedford · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£27
 / night
Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes

9. Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes

97%
(66)
70km from Bedford · 12 units · Tents, Glamping
Glamping and campfire-friendly camping by a pair of fishing lakes in the Leicestershire countryside
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£35
 / night
Heygates Lodging

10. Heygates Lodging

100%
(21)
51km from Bedford · 2 units · Glamping
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£180
 / night
Berrends Farm

11. Berrends Farm

96%
(38)
129km from Bedford · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are in the 3 counties area, a short distance from the Malvern Hills. We have pitches for tents and caravans, and also a Shepherds Hut and an Annex. We are a small working farm. We welcome our guests to enjoy our home. There are lots of local pubs and towns to visit and local attractions located nearby.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£32
 / night
Cuckoo Farm Campsite

12. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%
(202)
53km from Bedford · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£20
 / night
Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

13. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%
(29)
106km from Bedford · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
🌅 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£17
 / night
Wolford Wood Camping & Cabins

14. Wolford Wood Camping & Cabins

98%
(30)
83km from Bedford · 16 units · Tents
Family camping in a Cotswolds wildflower meadow beside an ancient woodland and SSSI
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£22
 / night
Small Trees Campsite

15. Small Trees Campsite

97%
(38)
148km from Bedford · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Huckleberry Farm

16. Huckleberry Farm

81%
(16)
63km from Bedford · 6 units · Tents, Glamping
A back-to-basics campsite that’s well placed for visiting Oxford and the Cotswolds
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£30
 / night
Southwood Park Estate

17. Southwood Park Estate

93%
(7)
145km from Bedford · 12 units · Glamping
Southwood park estate is a beautifully manicured and peaceful destination for those who want to get back to nature and still have all of the home comforts that they are used to. We are at the foot of the South Downs, and only 8 minutes drive from Chichester and the Good Wood Estate We are family and pet friendly site. All bookings come with cooked breakfasts for each guest per day as well as a large log / lighters pack for each day!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£90
 / night
Shire Camping

18. Shire Camping

98%
(25)
73km from Bedford · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Shire Camping is located in a peaceful 10 acre meadow looking towards Edge Hill. Spacious and with running drinking water, hot showers and flushing toilets. There is a footpath running alongside it taking you 25 minutes to a village shop one way and 20 minutes to a good pub the other way, all across fields. There are some amazing walks to do from the site, and being on the edge of the cotswolds there are plenty of pretty villages and market towns to explore. There are also some well regarded cycling routes in the area.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

19. Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

100%
(6)
96km from Bedford · 5 units · Motorhomes
A year-round lakeside site for motorhomes and caravans in Suffolk
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
£15
 / night
Pitchcott Farm

20. Pitchcott Farm

92%
(31)
41km from Bedford · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Nearly wild, back-to-nature camping on a regenerative farm in Buckinghamshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night

Nestled in the countryside just 90 minutes north of London, this county town and its scenic surrounds offer a glimpse of England’s 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 region’s historic castles, country houses, and National Trust trails offer plenty by way of outdoor adventure.

94% (185) 101 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Bedford

Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite

94%
(178)
125km from Bedford · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are a WILD campsite with character and history. Our most popular pitch is our beautiful SSSI woodland. There are only 25 pitches available. We have a mid wild pitch on the outskirts of the woods, lovely grassed area between trees. Our top field is perfect for motorhomes & caravans. Plenty of space to breath and relax. Located on the stunning heathlands of the Sutton Heath. We are surrounded by beautiful woodland walks, including the Sandlings walk and just 10 minutes from the river Deben. We have a bus stop at the top of the track and Melton train station is a 20 minute walk or 5 minute drive. There are access points onto public footpaths, leading to Rendlesham Forest. A famous site for UFOs! Sutton Hoo is a stone's throw away. Bring your bikes and explore the area on wheels. There is water access and portaloos. We do not have showers yet. Blue/grey waste must be taken away. LEAVE NO TRACE
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£16
 / night
The T Barn

2. The T Barn

99%
(90)
108km from Bedford · 17 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Bell tents and shepherd’s huts with hot tubs on a picturesque Cotswolds farm near Cirencester
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£29
 / night
Whitlingham Broad Campsite

3. Whitlingham Broad Campsite

98%
(164)
132km from Bedford · 72 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Laid-back camping and glamping a stone's throw from Norwich and at the gateway to the Norfolk Broads
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£14
 / night
Sunnyside Campsite

4. Sunnyside Campsite

138km from Bedford · 1 unit · Glamping
Easy camping on a small site in Suffolk
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£70
 / night
Snettisham Meadows

5. Snettisham Meadows

96%
(24)
105km from Bedford · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Set on a traditional family-run farm in rural Norfolk, Snettisham Meadows is on the outskirts of the pretty village of Snettisham and short drive away from North Norfolk's beautiful white sandy beaches. Animal-mad campers, form an orderly queue please, as this 329-acre farm has several attractions up its sleeve for you, including meet-and-greets with pigs and ponies, lamb feeding in spring and deer safaris. There’s also a dog paddock for rent so four-legged companions can have a frisk around, and an area on the camping field is reserved for guests with dogs. Campfires and barbecues are permitted and you can borrow firepits from the site owners. Logs are also available to buy. The site is only 10 minutes’ walk from a village pub if you fancy a change of scenery. After a fun-filled day exploring this lovely part of Norfolk, come back to your pitch and keep your fingers crossed for clear skies and some serious stargazing. Facilities include washing-up sinks, a small shop at reception for essential supplies and tourist information, USB phone charging and a freezer for ice packs.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£22
 / night
Quaint Farm in a National Park

6. Quaint Farm in a National Park

100%
(26)
126km from Bedford · 2 units · Glamping
Our 17 acre Farm is set deep within the beautiful South Downs National Park on the outskirts of the quiet village of Milland (near Liphook) in rural West Sussex (close to its border with Hampshire and Surrey). We have direct access to an excellent bridleway and footpath network through peaceful open countryside and quiet lanes as well as being on the Serpent Tail and close to the South Downs Way.​ Our Glamping Pod and Shepherd's Hut are available to book all year round. We also offer stabling if you would like to take your horses or ponies on holiday with you! Milland village (0.8 miles) has the Rising Sun pub, serving great food and drink, and Milland Stores, which stocks all your essential fresh and local produce as well as having a small cafe.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from 
£125
 / night
The Old Vicarage

7. The Old Vicarage

79%
(17)
130km from Bedford · 6 units · Tents, Glamping
The Old Vicarage offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere for your stay for camping. We have BBQ's, camp fires to hire and have the shallow river to play in. Free Wifi. Well behaved dogs allowed on leads at all times. Riverside site in grounds of a 17th-century house in Nottinghamshire Close to Sherwood Forest and 25 miles from Nottingham Cave bar on site open on Bank Holidays You'll sense the history all around you at The Old Vicarage, from the old house to the remains of the water mill in the river bed. Stays here are in the grounds of a 17th-century house in the village of Elkesley, six miles from Worksop and 25 miles from Nottingham. Its grounds run down to the banks of the Poulter river, and are lined with stands of acacia, sycamore, ash and oak trees which were originally donated to the first vicar by the Duke of Newcastle in the 1830s. There's plenty of space around the site for traditional outdoor activities, with a rope swing and stepping stones over the shallow river and a bridge that's perfect for playing Pooh Sticks. In the surrounding area there are animal parks and nature reserves to walk around, or to head back further in time, you could take one of the trails through ancient Sherwood Forest, around quarter of an hour's drive away. Guest facilities on site centre around the Cave Bar, a cool little space built into an exposure of 500-million-year-old sandstone, plus an outdoor terrace for sipping drinks out in the sunshine. Other amenities include a washing-up area and bathrooms with plentiful hot showers, toilets and baby changing facilities. No Fire Pits BBQ;s off the floor. No disposable BBQ;s CHECK IN BETWEEN 2PM AND 6PM CHECK INS AFTER 6PM INCUR A FEE OF £10.00 FOR LATE CHECK IN
Pets
Showers
Potable water
from 
£28
 / night
Woodlands Camping

8. Woodlands Camping

97%
(104)
128km from Bedford · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A back-to-basics campsite in the South Downs National Park
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£27
 / night
Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes

9. Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes

97%
(66)
70km from Bedford · 12 units · Tents, Glamping
Glamping and campfire-friendly camping by a pair of fishing lakes in the Leicestershire countryside
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£35
 / night
Heygates Lodging

10. Heygates Lodging

100%
(21)
51km from Bedford · 2 units · Glamping
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.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£180
 / night
Berrends Farm

11. Berrends Farm

96%
(38)
129km from Bedford · 6 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
We are in the 3 counties area, a short distance from the Malvern Hills. We have pitches for tents and caravans, and also a Shepherds Hut and an Annex. We are a small working farm. We welcome our guests to enjoy our home. There are lots of local pubs and towns to visit and local attractions located nearby.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£32
 / night
Cuckoo Farm Campsite

12. Cuckoo Farm Campsite

99%
(202)
53km from Bedford · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Family camping with campfires on an organic farm, set alongside the beautiful River Chater
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£20
 / night
Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

13. Hunstanton Camping & Glamping

78%
(29)
106km from Bedford · 108 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
🌅 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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
£17
 / night
Wolford Wood Camping & Cabins

14. Wolford Wood Camping & Cabins

98%
(30)
83km from Bedford · 16 units · Tents
Family camping in a Cotswolds wildflower meadow beside an ancient woodland and SSSI
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from 
£22
 / night
Small Trees Campsite

15. Small Trees Campsite

97%
(38)
148km from Bedford · 33 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A small, campfire-friendly and dog-friendly campsite with approachable hosts
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£12
 / night
Huckleberry Farm

16. Huckleberry Farm

81%
(16)
63km from Bedford · 6 units · Tents, Glamping
A back-to-basics campsite that’s well placed for visiting Oxford and the Cotswolds
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£30
 / night
Southwood Park Estate

17. Southwood Park Estate

93%
(7)
145km from Bedford · 12 units · Glamping
Southwood park estate is a beautifully manicured and peaceful destination for those who want to get back to nature and still have all of the home comforts that they are used to. We are at the foot of the South Downs, and only 8 minutes drive from Chichester and the Good Wood Estate We are family and pet friendly site. All bookings come with cooked breakfasts for each guest per day as well as a large log / lighters pack for each day!
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£90
 / night
Shire Camping

18. Shire Camping

98%
(25)
73km from Bedford · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Shire Camping is located in a peaceful 10 acre meadow looking towards Edge Hill. Spacious and with running drinking water, hot showers and flushing toilets. There is a footpath running alongside it taking you 25 minutes to a village shop one way and 20 minutes to a good pub the other way, all across fields. There are some amazing walks to do from the site, and being on the edge of the cotswolds there are plenty of pretty villages and market towns to explore. There are also some well regarded cycling routes in the area.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£15
 / night
Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

19. Arthur's Retreat Suffolk

100%
(6)
96km from Bedford · 5 units · Motorhomes
A year-round lakeside site for motorhomes and caravans in Suffolk
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
£15
 / night
Pitchcott Farm

20. Pitchcott Farm

92%
(31)
41km from Bedford · 11 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Nearly wild, back-to-nature camping on a regenerative farm in Buckinghamshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£35
 / night

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The best campsites near Bedford with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Bedfordshire

From reclaimed woodland around the Forest of Marston Vale to rich wetland along the River Great Ouse, there’s plenty to discover around Bedford. The region’s 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 region’s 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 region’s private farms and campgrounds.

The Cotswolds AONB

One of England’s most famous landscapes, the Cotswolds encompasses rolling hills, river valleys, and scenic villages that makes the region a rambler’s 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

England’s 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 it’s best to book accommodation well in advance—Areas 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.