Camping in Hamsterley Forest

·

With more than 2,000 hectares of wooded valleys and miles of forest trails to explore, Hamsterley Forest has outdoor adventures for all ages. Mountain bikers can choose from red, blue, and black grade trails, while kids will love the Gruffalo trail and Viking-themed playground. Look out for roe deer and woodland animals as you walk or horseback ride along the nature trails, put your map-reading skills to use on an orienteering course, or enjoy a picnic or barbecue beneath the trees. There’s no camping in the forest itself, but you’ll find plenty of options in the neighbouring North Pennines AONB.

95% (451) 813 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Hamsterley Forest

The Old Chapel Campsite

1. The Old Chapel Campsite

97%
(99)
Murton, England · 30 units
Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Walkmill Campsite

2. Walkmill Campsite

98%
(122)
Northumberland, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Refreshingly understated private camping in the unspoiled Northumberland countryside
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Tyne View Camping

3. Tyne View Camping

100%
(19)
Chopwell, England · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Tyne View Camping is a peaceful spot in Tyne and Wear, not far from Hedley on the Hill village. It's on a farm run by David and his family, who welcome guests to enjoy the beautiful countryside views. You can see the Tyne Valley from the camping pitches, which is great for stargazing at night. The site is basic with just water taps and toilets, no showers, but there's lots of space for kids and dogs to play. You're allowed to bring a barbecue or firepit for cooking, and you can buy supplies in Prudhoe nearby. Or, you can walk to Hedley on the Hill for a meal at a top-notch pub. There are plenty of things to do nearby, like walking in the woods, playing golf, or trying gliding. You can also visit Hadrian’s Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, or explore the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a varied and enjoyable break.Also this June we will be open for the Sam Fender weekend ie June 12 til the 16th if anyone wants to camp £20 a night plus a taxi for £20
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Masons Campsite

4. Masons Campsite

Skipton Bd23 6 Dd, England · 10 units
On the banks of a river, with open views over the Yorkshire Dales and lots of space for games, with a pair of great pubs nearby
Electrical hookup
Pets
Howbeck Lodge

5. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Stock Park Lakeside Camping

6. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

92%
(93)
Grizedale, England · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
King Garth

7. King Garth

100%
(10)
Carlisle, England · 1 unit
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Hill Top Huts

8. Hill Top Huts

97%
(121)
Middleton In Teesdale, England · 12 units
Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub
Pets
Showers
Wifi
Roseacre Retreat - Adult Only

9. Roseacre Retreat - Adult Only

100%
(6)
England · 4 units
Adults only site. 4 luxury glamping pods in North Yorkshire. 3 pods with hot tub, 1 without
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ewe Love Camping Pods

10. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(109)
Penrith, England · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Church Lane Campsite

11. Church Lane Campsite

93%
(7)
England · 36 units
Time for a slice of the simple life? Grab a peaceful Lake District pitch at Church Lane Campsite and immerse yourselves in proper scenic countryside with few distractions. This back to basics site has life’s essentials in place – in the form of drinking water, toilets and showers – but hasn’t gone overboard with other facilities, so you’ll simply be left to set up your space and soak up the gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Pitches here are on grass with trees around the field to provide a bit of shelter and shade – and the views are pretty much green as far as you can see. This setting gives the place a remote atmosphere that’s well suited to adventurous travellers, nature lovers and serenity-seeking couples or families. That said, it’s not actually all that remote – handily, you’ll be able to drive to Kendal in about 10 minutes for cultural attractions, shops and places to eat, and popular Windermere is about the same distance in the other direction. Closer still are a smart rural restaurant and the little village of Crook, a mile away and the home of the local pub – both excellent options for a good feed.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
The Black Swan

12. The Black Swan

100%
(26)
Kirkby Stephen, England · 3 units
Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore. The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members. Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself). We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay. All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

13. High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

100%
(1)
Toft Hill, England · 36 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
How about a camping break with spectacular Durham Dales views? High Farm Holiday Park might well be the spot for you, a scenic, family- and dog-friendly glamping/ touring site. Restoring and recycling vintage items is a passion of ours and may examples of this can be found throughout the site including our showstopping /repurposed Railway Wagons – each one found around the local area and completely refurbished into cute and cosy mini lodges decked out with stylish wooden interiors. Set in the County Durham countryside on a family-run former dairy farm, the site also features developing woodland and wetlands with loads of amazing wildlife, and mown walkways for you to explore your surroundings. An on-site café, shop and board game library are also all available for your use. Open all year, the site is close to the market town of Bishop Auckland (10 minutes’ drive), with its wide range of shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the woodland walks and art trails in Hamsterley Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

14. Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

100%
(11)
Grassington, England · 2 units
We are ideally located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, with our stunning Northcote Pods situated near Kilnsey Crag. Here, you’ll find spectacular views across Upper Wharfedale. Couples and families alike love to escape to our spacious, comfortable pods; there’s no better place for a holiday getaway. Parking outside the pod leads to a paved patio area with a private wood fired hot tub (Pheasant Pod ONLY), seating, BBQ. Inside offers double bed and sofa bed to accommodate up to 2 children and a hanging rail for clothes. Smart TV with a Netflix account connected, wifi and bluetooth ceiling speakers. Shower room with sink, toilet, shavers socket and heated towel rail. Fully fitted kitchen with sink, fridge, microwave, 2 ring induction hob, toaster and kettle. Dining table and chairs. Electric heating, USB sockets.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
Cairn Meadow Pods

15. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(43)
Cumwhitton, England · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Fairy Bell Wood

16. Fairy Bell Wood

100%
(11)
Lambrigg, England · 1 unit
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Grinsdale Campsite

17. Grinsdale Campsite

England · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

18. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%
(3)
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
Showers
Potable water
Wanderlusts Gypsy Caravans

19. Wanderlusts Gypsy Caravans

Melmerby, England · 3 units
Travelling from site to site in a bow-top gypsy caravan, through Cumbria's stunning scenery
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Scow Hall Farm

20. Scow Hall Farm

100%
(6)
Ilkley, England · 15 units
A summer-only farm campsite in Yorkshire’s pretty Washburn Valley
Showers
Potable water

With more than 2,000 hectares of wooded valleys and miles of forest trails to explore, Hamsterley Forest has outdoor adventures for all ages. Mountain bikers can choose from red, blue, and black grade trails, while kids will love the Gruffalo trail and Viking-themed playground. Look out for roe deer and woodland animals as you walk or horseback ride along the nature trails, put your map-reading skills to use on an orienteering course, or enjoy a picnic or barbecue beneath the trees. There’s no camping in the forest itself, but you’ll find plenty of options in the neighbouring North Pennines AONB.

95% (451) 813 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Hamsterley Forest

The Old Chapel Campsite

1. The Old Chapel Campsite

97%
(99)
Murton, England · 30 units
Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Walkmill Campsite

2. Walkmill Campsite

98%
(122)
Northumberland, England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Refreshingly understated private camping in the unspoiled Northumberland countryside
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Tyne View Camping

3. Tyne View Camping

100%
(19)
Chopwell, England · 15 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Tyne View Camping is a peaceful spot in Tyne and Wear, not far from Hedley on the Hill village. It's on a farm run by David and his family, who welcome guests to enjoy the beautiful countryside views. You can see the Tyne Valley from the camping pitches, which is great for stargazing at night. The site is basic with just water taps and toilets, no showers, but there's lots of space for kids and dogs to play. You're allowed to bring a barbecue or firepit for cooking, and you can buy supplies in Prudhoe nearby. Or, you can walk to Hedley on the Hill for a meal at a top-notch pub. There are plenty of things to do nearby, like walking in the woods, playing golf, or trying gliding. You can also visit Hadrian’s Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, or explore the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a varied and enjoyable break.Also this June we will be open for the Sam Fender weekend ie June 12 til the 16th if anyone wants to camp £20 a night plus a taxi for £20
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Masons Campsite

4. Masons Campsite

Skipton Bd23 6 Dd, England · 10 units
On the banks of a river, with open views over the Yorkshire Dales and lots of space for games, with a pair of great pubs nearby
Electrical hookup
Pets
Howbeck Lodge

5. Howbeck Lodge

94%
(27)
Hesket Newmarket, England · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District
Pets
Showers
Water hookup
Stock Park Lakeside Camping

6. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

92%
(93)
Grizedale, England · 15 units
Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
King Garth

7. King Garth

100%
(10)
Carlisle, England · 1 unit
Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Hill Top Huts

8. Hill Top Huts

97%
(121)
Middleton In Teesdale, England · 12 units
Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub
Pets
Showers
Wifi
Roseacre Retreat - Adult Only

9. Roseacre Retreat - Adult Only

100%
(6)
England · 4 units
Adults only site. 4 luxury glamping pods in North Yorkshire. 3 pods with hot tub, 1 without
Pets
Showers
Campfires
Ewe Love Camping Pods

10. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%
(109)
Penrith, England · 3 units
Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Church Lane Campsite

11. Church Lane Campsite

93%
(7)
England · 36 units
Time for a slice of the simple life? Grab a peaceful Lake District pitch at Church Lane Campsite and immerse yourselves in proper scenic countryside with few distractions. This back to basics site has life’s essentials in place – in the form of drinking water, toilets and showers – but hasn’t gone overboard with other facilities, so you’ll simply be left to set up your space and soak up the gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Pitches here are on grass with trees around the field to provide a bit of shelter and shade – and the views are pretty much green as far as you can see. This setting gives the place a remote atmosphere that’s well suited to adventurous travellers, nature lovers and serenity-seeking couples or families. That said, it’s not actually all that remote – handily, you’ll be able to drive to Kendal in about 10 minutes for cultural attractions, shops and places to eat, and popular Windermere is about the same distance in the other direction. Closer still are a smart rural restaurant and the little village of Crook, a mile away and the home of the local pub – both excellent options for a good feed.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
The Black Swan

12. The Black Swan

100%
(26)
Kirkby Stephen, England · 3 units
Our three, brand new wood and canvas yurts are nestled in our private, woodland hotel garden beside the beautiful conservation (SSSI) river of Scandal Beck. Just a short drive from The Lake District, The Yorkshire and Durham Dales as well as The Scottish Border, we are perfectly located for you to explore. The yurts themselves are individually decorated with full size furniture, electricity and double beds. The yurts are all located in the garden of The Black Swan Hotel, Ravenstonedale, a multi award-winning hotel, restaurant and bar; recipient of 2 AA Rosettes as well as AA pub of the year for England 2018/19. As part of your stay in our yurts you will receive a full cooked breakfast and buffet option included in the price for 2 people in our hotel restaurant. We like to think of ourselves as a cosy home from home with a relaxed dining atmosphere throughout. We are very dog friendly in the hotel, restaurant, bar and yurts so please bring your furry family members. Our beautiful woodland is also home to red squirrels (which are seen daily), protected, freshwater crayfish in the river, an otter (seen very infrequently but the nemesis of our ducks), 6 Indian runner ducks, free range chickens and our two cockerels! (Dogs are very welcome but are to be kept on a lead whilst in the woodland itself). We are very dog friendly and charge an additional fee of £15 for 1 dog/ £20 for 2 dogs for an additional cleaning fee and for some dog friendly goodies such as poop bags and treats. The price of this yurt is based on an occupancy of 2 people. Any other people who will be staying on the sofa bed will add a charge of £40 per person per night for breakfast and their stay. All yurts come with electrical battery pack, chargeable lanterns, tea/coffee, homemade biscuits, log burning stoves, towels, full breakfast included from the hotel, an outdoor seating area and access to our outdoor toasty warm woodland shower as well as our very cute, wooden toilet cabin. Hairdryers are available in the hotel for your use.
Pets
Showers
Campfires
High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

13. High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

100%
(1)
Toft Hill, England · 36 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
How about a camping break with spectacular Durham Dales views? High Farm Holiday Park might well be the spot for you, a scenic, family- and dog-friendly glamping/ touring site. Restoring and recycling vintage items is a passion of ours and may examples of this can be found throughout the site including our showstopping /repurposed Railway Wagons – each one found around the local area and completely refurbished into cute and cosy mini lodges decked out with stylish wooden interiors. Set in the County Durham countryside on a family-run former dairy farm, the site also features developing woodland and wetlands with loads of amazing wildlife, and mown walkways for you to explore your surroundings. An on-site café, shop and board game library are also all available for your use. Open all year, the site is close to the market town of Bishop Auckland (10 minutes’ drive), with its wide range of shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as the woodland walks and art trails in Hamsterley Forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Showers
Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

14. Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

100%
(11)
Grassington, England · 2 units
We are ideally located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, with our stunning Northcote Pods situated near Kilnsey Crag. Here, you’ll find spectacular views across Upper Wharfedale. Couples and families alike love to escape to our spacious, comfortable pods; there’s no better place for a holiday getaway. Parking outside the pod leads to a paved patio area with a private wood fired hot tub (Pheasant Pod ONLY), seating, BBQ. Inside offers double bed and sofa bed to accommodate up to 2 children and a hanging rail for clothes. Smart TV with a Netflix account connected, wifi and bluetooth ceiling speakers. Shower room with sink, toilet, shavers socket and heated towel rail. Fully fitted kitchen with sink, fridge, microwave, 2 ring induction hob, toaster and kettle. Dining table and chairs. Electric heating, USB sockets.
Showers
Campfires
Hot Tub
Cairn Meadow Pods

15. Cairn Meadow Pods

99%
(43)
Cumwhitton, England · 3 units
Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Fairy Bell Wood

16. Fairy Bell Wood

100%
(11)
Lambrigg, England · 1 unit
An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales
Showers
Campfires
Potable water
Grinsdale Campsite

17. Grinsdale Campsite

England · 1 unit · Tent, Motorhome
Wild camping with water and toilets on site, also the King Charles coastal path, just 2 minutes from Hadrians Wall and next to the River Eden.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

18. Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

100%
(3)
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
Showers
Potable water
Wanderlusts Gypsy Caravans

19. Wanderlusts Gypsy Caravans

Melmerby, England · 3 units
Travelling from site to site in a bow-top gypsy caravan, through Cumbria's stunning scenery
Pets
Campfires
Hot Tub
Scow Hall Farm

20. Scow Hall Farm

100%
(6)
Ilkley, England · 15 units
A summer-only farm campsite in Yorkshire’s pretty Washburn Valley
Showers
Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Hamsterley Forest camping guide

When to go

Summer is the most popular time to visit Hamsterley Forest, but it can get busy. Set out early to snag a parking spot and get a jump on the crowds. Outdoor activities are possible year-round, and it’s worth revisiting to make the most of each season. Come in spring to stroll through the bluebell woods, in fall to admire the changing leaves, or in winter for crisp walks through the snow.

Know before you go

  • Haldon Forest is located on the eastern edge of the North Pennines AONB, about a 30-minute drive from Durham. 
  • You will need your own transport, as there are no public transport links to the park. Paid parking is available.
  • There are restrooms and a café in the park.
  • Some of the park’s trails are wheelchair accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summer is the most popular time to visit Hamsterley Forest, but it can get busy. Set out early to snag a parking spot and get a jump on the crowds. Outdoor activities are possible year-round, and it’s worth revisiting to make the most of each season. Come in spring to stroll through the bluebell woods, in fall to admire the changing leaves, or in winter for crisp walks through the snow. Hamsterley Forest has outdoor adventures for all ages.

With more than 2,000 hectares of wooded valleys and miles of forest trails to explore, Hamsterley Forest has outdoor adventures for all ages. Mountain bikers can choose from red, blue, and black grade trails, while kids will love the Gruffalo trail and Viking-themed playground. Look out for roe deer and woodland animals as you walk or horseback ride along the nature trails, put your map-reading skills to use on an orienteering course, or enjoy a picnic or barbecue beneath the trees.

There’s no camping in the forest itself, but you’ll find plenty of options in the neighbouring North Pennines AONB. You can also explore different options for camping near Hamsterley Forest 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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