Luxury camping in Epping Forest

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Forest walks don’t come more impressive than Epping Forest, with 12 miles of rambling woodlands stretching north of London. Venture into the trees to explore miles of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails; spot native wildlife; or play a game of golf at one of the two courses. Campers staying at Epping Forest can also explore the adjoining Lee Valley Regional Park, where activities include fly fishing and boat cruises along the Lea River. For a break from the forest, slip away to a country pub on the forest outskirts, or hop aboard for a ride on the Epping Ongar steam railway.

93% (406) 429 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Epping Forest

3. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£68
 / night

8. Penn Meadow Farm

91%
(233)
50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England
Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night

12. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£99
 / night

14. Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

100%
(3)
15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£28
 / night

17. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night

Forest walks don’t come more impressive than Epping Forest, with 12 miles of rambling woodlands stretching north of London. Venture into the trees to explore miles of walking, cycling, and horseback riding trails; spot native wildlife; or play a game of golf at one of the two courses. Campers staying at Epping Forest can also explore the adjoining Lee Valley Regional Park, where activities include fly fishing and boat cruises along the Lea River. For a break from the forest, slip away to a country pub on the forest outskirts, or hop aboard for a ride on the Epping Ongar steam railway.

93% (406) 429 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Epping Forest

3. Riverside Farm experience camp fire

84%
(25)
43 units · Tents, Glamping · England
Wild farm camping in an idyllic 60 acre grade 1 listed country estate conservation farm and pleasure grounds in central Hertford. Large free camping meadow includes fire pits next to the river and ancient woodlands. Stunning valley views. Paddle swim boat fish in our crystal clear chalk streams , explore our woodland areas , with hammocks swings and huge 1960s army parachute shelter. NEW Goldings mini beach , sand area next to our crystal clear shallow paddling area . Loads of fun with friendly lambs, piglets, donkeys and mini cows to pet and feed. Your stay includes a farm tour with farmer Morag and the team, walk our baby mini pygmy goats, ALL ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR STAY (no extra costs) such as arts and crafts are available, plus play areas, with zip wire, fishing, boats, swimming and paddling in our crystal clear chalk stream. We have 60 acres of grade 1 listed farmland, woodlands, a canal, river and meadows to explore. We are 5 minutes from Hertford north train station which has trains every 35 mins to Central London. Close to all the amazing activities, museums, bars, restaurants and shops of historic Hertford. Close to Hertfordshire Zoo, Harry Potter World, and loads of attractions.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£68
 / night

8. Penn Meadow Farm

91%
(233)
50 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Beaconsfield, England
Penn Meadow Farm is a beautiful 145 acre, family farm, nestled perfectly into the Chiltern Hills area of outstanding natural beauty. We’re just a 5 minute walk across our grassy fields to the oldest free-house pub in England (The Royal Standard of England) Say hello to our resident alpacas, sheep, pigs, pigmy goats, flock of 250 sheep and of course our lovely boarder collies. We aim to be a very relaxed spot to be able to rest for a few nights and maybe enjoying a nice camp fire in the evening. The site includes; Showers and Toilet block with toilet paper stocked. Open family pitches for you to choose where you want to set up Running drinking water Shared open kitchen Fires allowed BBQ's allowed To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and safety, please follow these rules: Supervise children: Always supervise your children and ensure they do not wander off alone. Clean up after yourself: Dispose of all waste properly in the designated bins and leave no trace behind. Wash any items you use and return them to where you found them. Respect other campers: Be courteous to fellow campers and respect their privacy and space. Pets: If you bring pets, ensure they are well-behaved, kept on a leash or have impeccable recall, and cleaned up after. Do not allow your pet to enter another camper's space. Quiet time: Maintain quiet hours between 11pm and 7am. All music must stop by 10pm, and noise should be minimal after 11pm. Campfires: Penn Meadow Farm allows fires; please use existing scorched areas if possible rather than creating new ones. Never leave any fires unattended and ensure they are completely extinguished when finished. Wipe your feet prior to entering the Bell tents to remove any coal that may have become attached. Cars/vehicles: Cars and vehicles can be on the field but should move minimally and always under 5mph. Car stereos should not be used for music entertainment. Drugs and Alcohol: Drug use is prohibited, and violators will be asked to leave. Consume alcohol responsibly, and do not drive or move your vehicle after consuming alcohol. We do not typically book Large non-family groups unless they are seeking a calm and peaceful stay. These groups must have authorization prior to the visit.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£25
 / night

12. Hastingford Fishery Glamping

100%
(8)
4 units · Glamping · Uckfield, England
Searching for a peaceful holiday/short break without kids underfoot? Ramble along to Hastingford Fishery, an adults-only shepherd's hut and fishing site set in a scenic lakeside setting less than five minutes’ drive from the East Sussex village of Hadlow Down and 20 minutes from Royal Tunbridge Wells. This site should suit couples or singles wanting to 'get away from it all' and also fishing fans down to the ground. It’s got several fishing lakes to choose from with lots of different species, so settle down on the banks with rod in hand and while away a few hours (or days) in quiet contemplation, waiting for something to bite. But please note, the site is not for 'competition anglers' although there are plenty of good sized carp around. and asks anyone fishing to only use barbless hooks, and for fish to be returned to the lake quickly after being caught.Not the fishing type? Chill out in and around your secluded hut, or there’s plenty to entertain in a leisurely fashion: paths wind around the lakes and through copses/shaws (as this is the High Weald) plus through the local countryside. There are spectacular views towards the South Downs National Park from the top lakes. A spring-fed lake is also on site to cool off in with some wild swimming. Lots of bird life around, with feeders outside each hut and waterfowl visitors to the lakes.When it comes to eats, pick up or have supplies delivered from supermarkets or takeaways in Uckfield, Heathfield or Crowborough or take a drive to Buxted Park for some posh food or pubs in Blackboys, Crowborough, Ringles Cross, 5 Ash Down, Rotherfield, or Buxted (it'll take about 10 minutes to drive to any of these). Lots of sample menus in huts.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
from 
£99
 / night

14. Setts Wood Camping and Glamping

100%
(3)
15 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping · England
We look forward to welcoming you to Setts Wood Farm and will provide you with all you need for a relaxing and rewarding visit to Tenterden and The Weald. We offer a selection of bell tents or you can bring your own tent. The camping is set across 2 fields and extends to 12 acres. We have a maximum of 30 tents so it is never crowded. Come and meet the alpacas, sheep, pigs, goats and horses! We also have a small fishing lake which guests are welcome to use for a small donation. We restocked last year and there are carp and several species of smaller silver fish. It is ideal for beginners and children. Any children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Setts Wood Farm is perfectly positioned to explore Tenterden and the surrounding villages, and is less than a 20 minute drive to the historic town of Rye, with the beaches of Camber, Dymchurch and Littlestone just a few minutes further.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
from 
£28
 / night

17. Caracol Camping

100%
(5)
8 units · Glamping · Tunbridge Wells, England
Caracol Camping was created by Claire and Ade after having a longstanding dream to set up a glamping site of their own. By partnering with Michael, a renowned asparagus and fruit farmer, we are delighted to present to you our vision of posh camping in the heart of the Kent countryside Caracol is located in a stunning area of outstanding natural beauty in the High Weald area of Kent & Sussex. Just a short walk from the pretty village of Groombridge with 2 stunning pubs, a post office, bakers and the very unique steam valley railway. We have 8 fully furnished luxury bell tents, nestle in a 3 acre wildflower meadow, equipped with all of the facilities that you need for a comfortable stay. We are proud to offer a cosy snug area to relax with friends, brand new toilet and shower facilities along with a communal kitchen area offering everything you need to cook up a feast. We are incredibly proud to be partnered with Groombridge Farm Shop, runner up in the Farm Retail Awards in 2022. We can arrange delivery of hampers and goods directly to your tent upon arrival. The area is an oasis of peace and calm with plenty of activities and places to explore right on the doorstep. Situated just outside the historic spa town of Tunbridge Wells, we have easy road and rail links to the Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Essex counties and a short train ride to central London. Just bring yourselves and enjoy the stunning skies and nature that we are proud to offer.
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
from 
£113
 / night

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Luxury camping in Epping Forest guide

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for exploring: Debden House Campsite has spacious tent sites with fire pits, electric hook-up for caravans and campervans, and direct access to the forest’s hiking trails.
  • Best for peace and quiet: Lee Valley Campsite is on the western edge of the forest and has grass pitches with or without electric hook-up, as well as cozy camping pods and tents for hire.
  • Best for a wild camping experience: Lee Valley Almost Wild Campsite lets you get back to nature, with minimal amenities, quiet woodland tent pitches, and hammocks swinging from the trees.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Epping Forest campsites and caravan sites can book up quickly, especially in July and August, and during school holidays. Early bookings are essential if you want to visit these times.
  2. Unpowered tent pitches are more likely to be available without a reservation, but it’s still best to call ahead.
  3. You will need to pay a deposit to secure your campsite reservation; some sites ask for the full payment prior to arrival. 
  4. Be sure to check seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campsite. Some campsites open from May through September, while others stay open year-round.

When to go

Accessible year-round, it’s worth revisiting Epping Forest throughout its changing seasons. Autumn is magical under the colorful canopy of fall foliage, while springtime sees wildlife at its most active and bursts of wildflowers. Visiting on a weekday means you’ll avoid the crowds, but the park’s walking trails are always busy in July-August, as well as during school holidays. Pack sturdy hiking boots if visiting after rainfall, as the forest trails can get muddy.

Know before you go

  • Epping Forest is on the border of Essex and Hertfordshire, about an hour’s drive north of London.
  • Central line tubes run to Epping Forest from London, stopping at Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst, Hinton Admiral, Lymington, New Milton, Sway, and Totton.
  • There are about 30 car parks located throughout the park, many of which are pay and display.
  • Epping Forest Visitor Centres are located at Chingford and High Beach, where you’ll also find restrooms and cafés. 
  • Wild camping and overnight parking are not permitted anywhere within the park. Fires and BBQs are also off-limits, except on private camping and caravan parks.
  • Epping Forest has several accessible trails, and all car parks are accessible.