Wildlife-watching campsites near Bedford
96% (539) • 370 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bedford
Holistic Woods Wild Campsite
1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite
94%
(179)
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
Secret Wood Glamping
2. Secret Wood Glamping
95%
(20)
146km from Bedford · 10 units · Tents, Glamping
A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£18
/ night
The T Barn
3. 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
Piggles Retreat
4. Piggles Retreat
116km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival.
While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity.
These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience.
You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake.
As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay.
The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave.
Cutlery and plates etc are supplied.
The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television.
There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed.
All bed linen is supplied.
Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest.
There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required.
The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag.
There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower.
Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels.
There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property.
Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!
Showers
Hot Tub
Potable water
from
£135
/ night
Abbey Home Farm
5. Abbey Home Farm
94%
(218)
111km from Bedford · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£9
/ night
Whitlingham Broad Campsite
6. 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
Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping
7. Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping
99%
(48)
102km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
Laid-back glamping near Evesham, overlooking Bredon Hill and the Malverns.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£65
/ night
The Barn KT9
8. The Barn KT9
97%
(271)
90km from Bedford · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
The Nut Plat Retreat
9. The Nut Plat Retreat
93%
(73)
113km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
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
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£88
/ night
The White Lodge
10. The White Lodge
90%
(55)
129km from Bedford · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A traditional campsite close to Staffordshire’s canals, river, and stately homes.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£18
/ night
Quaint Farm in a National Park
11. 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
Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes
12. 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
Wingbury Farm Glamping
13. Wingbury Farm Glamping
98%
(26)
35km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
Modern pod glamping with hot tubs in a quiet Buckinghamshire meadow
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£160
/ night
Bain View Glamping
14. Bain View Glamping
97%
(18)
116km from Bedford · 4 units · Tents, Glamping
A canal-side shepherd's hut near the Lincolnshire Wolds, with an outdoor bathtub, a mini vineyard, and total privacy.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£23
/ night
Woodlands Camping
15. 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
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods
16. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods
92%
(13)
141km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£90
/ night
Hollington Park Glamping
17. Hollington Park Glamping
95%
(11)
109km from Bedford · 6 units · Glamping
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£105
/ night
Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
18. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
100%
(57)
98km from Bedford · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis
Pets
Campfires
from
£40
/ night
Park Farm Campsite
19. Park Farm Campsite
98%
(24)
120km from Bedford · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Off-grid pitches on an organic farm – with a sauna on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£20
/ night
Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
20. Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
95%
(148)
76km from Bedford · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Think Countryfile meets Time Team. Camping in six-acres of unspoiled Cotswold countryside, built in the grounds of a Norman castle.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£14
/ night
96% (539) • 370 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Bedford
Holistic Woods Wild Campsite
1. Holistic Woods Wild Campsite
94%
(179)
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
Secret Wood Glamping
2. Secret Wood Glamping
95%
(20)
146km from Bedford · 10 units · Tents, Glamping
A private woodland and stream all to yourself, with one spacious bell tent and a hot tub beneath the stars
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£18
/ night
The T Barn
3. 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
Piggles Retreat
4. Piggles Retreat
116km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
Nestled discreetly on the outskirts of the iconic town of Cambridge, UK, a mere 25-minute drive away, lies the exquisite Piggles Retreat. Elevating the glamping experience to unparalleled heights, this enchanting haven caters to both families and couples seeking an unforgettable getaway.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature as you indulge in the comfort of up to three exclusive wooden cabins, thoughtfully designed to accommodate 1-4 persons each. For those seeking extra space to unwind with extended family, children, or friends, an inviting annex cabin awaits your arrival.
While preserving the essence of camping, each cabin boasts its own private bathroom, just a leisurely stroll away, ensuring convenience without compromising on authenticity.
These authentic cabin are a dream-come-true. Located in a private area, these homes are equipped with everything you'll need for a relaxing time away. In a great position near to Newmarket, a stay in our cosy cabins are sure to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll experience.
You can also have a relaxing boat ride on the lake.
As a self-catering cabins, you'll find everything you need for a perfect stay.
The kitchen areas have a fridge, a kettle, a freezer and a microwave.
Cutlery and plates etc are supplied.
The cabins are a perfect place to relax and offers a television.
There is one bedroom in the cabins which contains a double bed.
All bed linen is supplied.
Although the cabins are designed for 2 guests it can accommodate up to 4 guests for an additional £ 30.00 per night per guest.
There is a sofa bed and we can supply a put up bed if required.
The extra guests will have to bring their own bed linen or bring a sleeping bag.
There is a private luxury bathroom a short walk away which has a toilet and a walk-in shower.
Shampoo and soap is provided but please bring your own towels.
There are free parking on premises parking facilities available at the property.
Use Code 8SJVPVML for 20% off any unit this summer!
Showers
Hot Tub
Potable water
from
£135
/ night
Abbey Home Farm
5. Abbey Home Farm
94%
(218)
111km from Bedford · 21 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Eco-camping for real. Cooking on an open fire. Unspoilt natural beauty.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£9
/ night
Whitlingham Broad Campsite
6. 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
Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping
7. Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping
99%
(48)
102km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
Laid-back glamping near Evesham, overlooking Bredon Hill and the Malverns.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£65
/ night
The Barn KT9
8. The Barn KT9
97%
(271)
90km from Bedford · 22 units · Tents, Glamping
A unique rural campsite in Surrey, a stone's throw from London's Zone 6
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£12
/ night
The Nut Plat Retreat
9. The Nut Plat Retreat
93%
(73)
113km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
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
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£88
/ night
The White Lodge
10. The White Lodge
90%
(55)
129km from Bedford · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A traditional campsite close to Staffordshire’s canals, river, and stately homes.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£18
/ night
Quaint Farm in a National Park
11. 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
Purple Badger Camping&Fishing Lakes
12. 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
Wingbury Farm Glamping
13. Wingbury Farm Glamping
98%
(26)
35km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
Modern pod glamping with hot tubs in a quiet Buckinghamshire meadow
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
from
£160
/ night
Bain View Glamping
14. Bain View Glamping
97%
(18)
116km from Bedford · 4 units · Tents, Glamping
A canal-side shepherd's hut near the Lincolnshire Wolds, with an outdoor bathtub, a mini vineyard, and total privacy.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£23
/ night
Woodlands Camping
15. 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
Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods
16. Scallow Campsite Glamping Pods
92%
(13)
141km from Bedford · 3 units · Glamping
The Glamping site offers three Glamping Pods. Glamping Pod 1 has twin beds while Glamping Pod 2 and 3 have double beds. The Pods are furnished with beds, side tables, table and chairs with hanging space for clothes and coats. The site is level and surrounded by a well managed copse adjoining the road with wild flowers and resplendent with bluebells in the Spring. We are proud to have been awarded Campsite of the Year East Sussex for 2021/22 by CorporateLiveWire Prestige Awards.
Showers
Campfires
Wifi
from
£90
/ night
Hollington Park Glamping
17. Hollington Park Glamping
95%
(11)
109km from Bedford · 6 units · Glamping
Pod and bell tent glamping in woodland on the edge of the North Wessex Downs
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from
£105
/ night
Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
18. Wild Camping in the Cotswolds
100%
(57)
98km from Bedford · 2 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping with acres of space hired on an exclusive basis
Pets
Campfires
from
£40
/ night
Park Farm Campsite
19. Park Farm Campsite
98%
(24)
120km from Bedford · 3 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Off-grid pitches on an organic farm – with a sauna on site
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from
£20
/ night
Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
20. Cotswolds Camping at Holycombe
95%
(148)
76km from Bedford · 14 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Think Countryfile meets Time Team. Camping in six-acres of unspoiled Cotswold countryside, built in the grounds of a Norman castle.
Campfires
Showers
Potable water
from
£14
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Damith
2 weeks ago
2 nights at Bredon-Vale Caravan and Camping
We stayed at Nancy's (70s’ caravan). The interior was the cosiest I could ever ask for. Minimalist but essential amenities made our stay enjoyable.
The camping site offers good views, especially for watching a splendid sunset if the weather is right. Campsite facilities are well-maintained and spotless.
Its location is very close to Evesham, making it easy to find shops, pubs, and access roads to other nearby destinations.
Don't miss paying Shakespeare a visit if you haven't done so yet 😉
See more
M
Mark
2 weeks ago
Tent
What an amazing find. I love this place. Back to basics, left me alone , the woods to myself , tranquility at its best . Met Mark who brought the wood to me in his 1930s tractor , lovely fella . Sat round my fire , cooked my food and fell asleep listening to the owls talk away .. I shall definitely be back , great value and stunning place
See more
M
Matt
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Nut Plat Retreat
The cabin was homely, warm and comfy. Plenty of logs provided for the burner. The hot tub is surrounded by trees and when the stars come out a lovely place to wallow. Nice country pub on doorstep. Would recommend.
See more
C
Catarina
December 2025
5 m travel trailer
With kids
Plain and simple holistic experience no gimmicks or frills. The best I've been to in a while the staff are lovely the surrounding are as nature intended. I will be back for sure
See moree
erin
November 2025
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!
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A
Andrea
November 2025
Tent
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
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c
chris
November 2025
8 m travel trailer
Holistic Woods is exactly that.. the tranquility, no light pollution.. it was amazing, quiet and the first time for as long as I can remember my brain switched off from the noise of life.. can't wait to get back and chill out
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H
Hugh
November 2025
5 m Class B
Had a lovely stay at Peter and Celia’s farm. Despite the weather not being on my side the views were beautiful over rolling hills and woods.
Both Celia and Peter were very welcoming and helpful. I’d definitely stay again if I’m in the area
See more
J
Julie
November 2025
4 m travel trailer
Amazing place .and very close to local attractions and nice walks ..very helpful friendly people ..relaxing peaceful ..loads of wildlife ..I’ll be going back would definitely recommend if you like rustic /nature..
See moreM
Martin
November 2025
Tent
We had a great time camping here in early November. It was just us, and the surroundings are really nice. You could hear the nearby road at times but otherwise it was everything you’d like from wild camping. We’ll be back.
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Abbie
October 2025
5 m car
With pets
What an amazing place! Thanks so much for having us. Cant tell you how relaxing it was having space for our dog to run about off lead, she LOVED it. Views are incredible too!
See moreJ
John
October 2025
Tent
Had very chilled 2 nights accept for the wet and windy night and was just me on site, Joe was helpful when arrived, just me and my hammock can’t wait to go back.
See more
V
Victoria
October 2025
5 m Class B
What an amazing spot in nature! This was an incredible getaway, such a quiet and natural space with birds, surrounded by trees and the very nearby woodlands which are covered in mushrooms, more than we could count! It was so peaceful, we loved the natural space and eco-friendly touches. We definitely want to return again! It was magical!
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A
Abi
October 2025
5 m car
Really great site. Managed really well. Amazing spot in the woods and plenty of space between yourself and other campers.
Firepits are provided and you can buy wood for fires if you need.
There are some great walks nearby and plenty of stargazing!
Would really recommend this site. Had a really wonderful weekend here.
(There is a closing time of 7pm which is to be aware of and not being able to enter after that point so just something to be aware if traffic or travelling far after work.)
The toilets, eco and flushing, were really good. Didn't use the showers so cant say!
See moreK
Katie
October 2025
Tent
With pets
We very much enjoyed the peace and quiet of the location. Rustic and basic, very much as advertised.
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s
sherrie
October 2025
7 m Class B
This was my third visit this year and we pitched up in a different location to before. The choice of where you want to pitch up is endless and every area of the pitch gives you complete privacy with stunning views. If you have a dog then this pitch is perfect for them to enjoy open space. Peter and Celia are amazing hosts with great communication. The pitch is really easy to access and find, we were fine with our 7m camper. I highly recommend this Hipcamp.
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C
Charlie
September 2025
Tent
Excellent site, so relaxing and beautiful: just as described. Cannot recommend highly enough, will definitely return and highly recommend
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R
Ryan
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
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!
See more
D
Duco
September 2025
Tent
Nice pitches at a pretty little campsite in a surprisingly beautiful environment. And the coffee cart is nice.
See more
L
Liam
September 2025
Tent
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!
See more
Wildlife-watching campsites near Bedford 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.