Camping in Hamsterley Forest

This mountain-biking hotspot also has woodland walks and Viking-theme playgrounds.

97% (472 reviews)

United Kingdom
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England
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Hamsterley Forest

97% (472 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Hamsterley Forest

Community favorites in and near Hamsterley Forest

Stories from the community

2 nights at The Old Chapel Campsite

We had an amazing time here. We stayed for two nights and had beautiful weather. There was just us and another couple with their dog. Ted was very accommodating and well informed about the area and gave us some ideas to fill our days. It was lovely watching his little ducks on the field and to hear the sheep in the morning too. It’s back to basics camping, no burger vans/shower blocks etc but it was absolutely perfect for what we wanted. ‘Proper camping’ Lovely quiet location, spotless portaloo and a friendly host.

Weekend Trip to Howdy Glamping

Very relaxed and welcoming. Had a lovely stay and a great recommendation for a hike the following day 😀

1 night at Beirhope Alpacas

Amazing wild camping experience (with luxuries), not far from Kelso. Peaceful spot with a handful of pitches ideal for families and couples, Lynne and staff are warm and welcoming, super friendly. Firewood and groceries can be accessed anytime you need, just pay in the morning. Eco toilets are cleaned regularly. Great stargazing area and a picnic area too, plenty of space and idyllic scenery...and there are the alpacas. Beautiful spot... Just don't tell everyone!

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Absolutely loved it definitely be going back with the kids lynne was a great host the views are amazing

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Beirhope was a beautiful, peaceful place to stay and Lynne was super welcoming. The kids loved it and have demanded that we return as soon as possible!

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

A very well organised campsite. Lynne was friendly and very accommodating. She gave a brief tour and explanation of the facilties, which was plentiful, then allowed us to set up our pitch. There are a number of pitches available, each one catering for a range of campers. I would wholeheartedly recommend this campsite to others.

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

A lovely little campsite. Just what we want in a campsite: quiet, dark, easy access to the hills, great host with a supply of fresh eggs. It’s in a great location within easy reach of High Cup Nick, Dufton and its beautiful glen etc. Ted is a great host who clearly enjoys having people passing through.

1 night at Howdy Glamping

I stayed on the campsite. Gorgeous site with really good facilities. Close To Ullswater. Hosts were the best. I’ll definitely be back.

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Beautiful close to nature small site, not a vehicle in site. Wonderful views. The owner,Ruth, is a wonderful host with a real concern and plans for the natural surroundings.

Weekend Trip to Tyne View Camping

Simple, laid back site with great views. David and Richard were super helpful and friendly. Basic in terms of amenities but portaloos were spotless and plenty of water taps. Exactly what we expected

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Great wee stay at Ted’s land. My daughter and I had a lovely time at the old chapel campsite. Peaceful and quiet, lovely views. A nearby hike up Murton pike is also recommended and in close proximity. A less traveled part of the lakes but with all the sights and sounds your looking for. We hired a firepit and got some wood from Ted and that kept us busy enjoying the night. We were also very lucky to have met/fed two of the lambs that were on the land. My daughter loved that. Highly recommended -

1 night at Woodsworth Exploring

Perfect stay, no hassle. Super quiet. Great for anyone who wants the feeling of wild camping with a safety net 😊

1 night at Howbeck Lodge

Fantastic rural location but only 15 mins for M6 set on a working farm in a valley. So quiet and scenic Walking distance to village with community pub!

7 nights at Kestrel Lodge Campsite

Amazing campsite, super friendly owners. Quiet and well located with your own fire pit.

2 nights at Social District

Absolutely loved this place ..had to leave early due to very poor weather unfortunately. The place was just perfect for us and will defo be back again in summer ..we loved it and so did our working cocker Stanley

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Me and partner would recommend this campsite so much! Ted was so lovely and let us feed the lambs which we loved. He was also super helpful when my partner had troubles with his car! Thank you so so much ted :)

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Friendly warden did what he could when we arrived. Views were amazing, campfires are a must at this site. The showers are nice and hot. Mostly clean even when it was wet. Would be good if they could advertise some local walks as these aren’t easily sign posted.

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Ruth was absolutely fantastic. Lovely location and it was nice to be nestled away on her farm. Honestly though, we'd come back just to spend some time just to have lively intelligent conversation with Ruth. If you're looking for a fully catered experience with all the bells and whistles then this place isn't for you. If you're looking for your basic needs to he met and have a respect for the land then look no further.

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Absolutely brilliant campsite, Ted was amazing from the moment we enquired, very friendly on our arrival. Duck and Hen eggs also available for you to purchase. We had a lovely time and can’t wait to come back. Thank You ☺️

3 nights at Butt Farm, Beverley

We’ve just had a lovely, long weekend camping, at Butt Farm. It was so simple getting into site and set up, we recieved a text in the morning with instructions where to find our pitch. As a family of 4, the kids were over the moon to have two goats, on the edge of the field, a free roaming chicken and site cat, which made staying on a working farm that bit more special for them. The toilets/showers and sinks were always clean, which was lovely! The showers were big enough to have a spot to get dry in, with plenty of hooks for your clothes and toiletries, especially handy with the kids. Jen was so helpful, with anything we needed. Overall it was such a laid back, relaxing place to be! We even woke up to an Easter Sunday treat by our tent. Just looking around the site you can tell how much hard work Jen and Oly put In, to make sure it’s a lovely place to be!

Under £50

99%

(38)

Camping at Cardewlees

37 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents1 acre · Carlisle, England

A welcoming, family-run farm campsite between the Lake District and Hadrian's Wall

97%

(29)

Chapel View Wild Campsite

3 units · Tents3 acres · High Peak, Derbyshire

A remote campsite for Hikers and Wild Campers Sittng on the Penine Bridleway on the foothills of Kinder above Chapel-en-le-Frith, offering beautiful views across the valley and being within immediate reach of some of the most popular walking trails in the UK. The campsite is in shadow of South Head and is directly on the Penine Bridleway less than 2 miles from Jacobs Ladder, the Penine Way and Kinder Low. You can break camp in the morning already in the heart of hiking country and return to your camp in the evening without ever leaving the remote wilderness of the national park.

Brayshaw View Glamping & Camping

46 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents3 acres · England

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.

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(3)

Primrose Cottage Camping

13 units · Motorhomes, Tents8 acres · Chorley, England

A quiet adult-only site (this site does not cater for children), with tents and campervans only, nestled below Healey Nab in the Lancashire Countryside. Rustic and back to basics is what this site is all about. Set amid spectacular countryside, grassy fields, woodland and streams to boot! Well behaved four legged friends are more than welcome. Campfires and good times allowed. *Please note loud music is not allowed.* Flat walks are a plenty along the Leeds and Liverpool canal or maybe a circular walk to white White Coppice might float your boat? For the hill walkers amongst us there is Great Hill and Rivington Pike to climb. Within walking distance or a few minutes drive there is pub at the end of the lane and local shops within the vicinity for those last minute snacks. Chorley town centre is 10 minutes drive away and we are close to the M61 which can take you to the Lake district in less than an hour, Manchester or Blackpool are roughly 30 Minutes away.

12 top campsites in Hamsterley Forest

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Castle Howard Lakeside Holiday Park

130 units · Motorhomes, Tents20 acres · England

Located in North Yorkshire on the Castle Howard Estate, Castle Howard Lakeside Holiday Park is just across The Great Lake from Castle Howard itself. A selection of hardstanding and grass pitches, with and without electric hook up. Pet friendly, open March - December. On-site shop. The perfect base to visit Castle Howard and explore the surrounding area.

97%

(29)

Puddlemire

21 units · Glamping, Tents5 acres · Kirkby Lonsdale, England

Camping in countryside between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales

Beirhope Alpacas

11 units · Tents1 acre · Kelso, Scotland

A small, off-grid campsite with alpacas in the historically rich southern Scottish borders

94%

(62)

Social District

30 units · Tents55 acres · Grizedale, Cumbria, North West England

Lake District camping on the banks of Lake Windermere, with direct access to the water.

98%

(65)

The Old Chapel Campsite

30 units · Tents1 acre · Murton, England

Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines

99%

(37)

Moss Rose Campsite

19 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents8 acres · Pilling, Preston, England

We have a family friendly Quiet campsite in the heart of Lancashire on our family run farm. Our site is situated in a species rich meadow field with large mown Pitches surrounded by wild flowers and meandering pathways linking the site together. We are surrounded by a young trees & woodland with the back drop of the Pennines. We offer both glamping and traditional non EHU camping on our site and we have lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers and our little honesty shack with all little camping essentials to might need whilst staying with us. We also hire out picnic benches and fire pits to help enhance your camping experience. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Our site has close links to the A6 and m6 J33. We are only 13 miles from the Historic city of Lancaster, the Bright lights of Blackpool and the jubilee city of Preston. 4 miles from the first fair trade market town of Garstang and 45 mins into the Lake District. There is also lots of interesting activities to do locally.

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Howdy Glamping

10 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents14 acres · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

Sociable, eco-friendly glamping in the woods, 10 minutes' drive from the Lake District.

95%

(55)

Stanley Villa Farm Fishing& Camping

36 units · Glamping30 acres · Preston, Lancashire, North West England

Lakeside rural tranquility and the 'kiss-me-quick' fun of the seaside – you can have the best of both worlds at Stanley Villa Farm's cute camping pods

96%

(132)

Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

47 units · Motorhomes, Tents1 acre · Millom, England

Lake District camping on a working farm with a stream to splash in, campfires encouraged and a horse-riding centre on the doorstep

100%

(8)

Tyne View Camping

15 units · Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · Chopwell, England

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

97%

(162)

Kestrel Lodge Campsite

11 units · Tents4 acres · Keswick, Cumbria, North West England

A family-friendly Lake District campsite, nestled between the quiet shores of Bassenthwaite Lake and the beautiful Cumbrian fells

98%

(60)

Woodsworth Exploring

10 units · Tents10 acres · Ilkley, West Yorkshire, North East England

Nearly wild woodland camping in West Yorkshire’s Bronte country

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(3)

Primrose Cottage Camping

13 units · Motorhomes, Tents8 acres · Chorley, England

97%

(15)

Dale Farm Holidays

6 units · Glamping3 acres · North Yorkshire, North East England

Gorgeous treehouse and glamping cabins near the North Yorkshire coast in the grounds of a 200-year-old farmhouse

Booked 1 time

Coast and Camplight Whitby Glamping

1 unit · Glamping26 acres · England

Our camps are spread out across our site, each one secluded from the others with nothing to see but the meadows, woods, views and at night the starry skies. The site is truly wild, with ancient woodland to one side with a beck running through it, and fields which we are rewilding full of wildflowers, bees and butterflies. The wildlife runs riot, with deer, owls, badgers, bats and all kinds of wild birds regular visitors. To preserve our wilderness and peace no cars are allowed on site; our visitors walk down the fields to their camps, leaving the real world with their cars at the gate (if you have mobility problems please contact us directly). Our camps are completely off-grid making it perfect for those looking for a digital detox and to get away from the stresses and strains of modern life. We try hard to be gentle on this beautiful place we call home, and the site is designed to be low impact on the environment with it’s own spring water, composting toilets and willow banks. All lighting is solar or via rechargeable batteries and eco-friendly washing products are provided. All the camps have a luxurious feeling despite feeling completely cut off from the outside world, with proper beds with comfy mattresses and their own hot showers; luxury bedding and fluffy towels are provided. Each camp has been handbuilt entirely by us from scratch from things that are recycled, found, car booted, made, upcycled, saved or rescued. Some things are on their third or even fourth life on the farm. Look out for the details, expect the unexpected, this is not glamping by numbers. Nothing says glamping to us like a real fire at the end of the day, toasting marshmallows, sharing stories and putting the day to rest. Each camp has a firepit for you to do just this. There is very little mobile reception in many places on the farm and we wholeheartedly recommend you take this as an opportunity to leave your phone with the rest of the modern world behind for your stay and remember what it is to live a little bit wild.

93%

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Moss Side Farm Campsite

33 units · Tents4 acres · Cumbria, North West England

Small-scale farm camping in the South Lakes, with campfires, wildlife and fine views

Booked 1 time

King Garth

1 unit · Glamping2 acres · Carlisle, England

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.

Available this weekend

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(3)

RHC & Glamping

6 units · Glamping15 acres · Lancashire, North West England

Hi Hipcampers, We are a 15 acre site of hillsides and woodlands, with woodland paths a few beautiful ponds and a small river! We have fabulous views to of the hills to be enjoyed. Theres lots of wildlife here from deer to Canadian geese. We have some stone fire pits for our guests to use foc! We have a games room and lots of children swings and activities.

100%

(11)

Dobella Lane Farm Certificated Site

11 units · Motorhomes, Tents1 acre · Dobella La Goole, England

A small dog-friendly campsite in the Vale of York that's open all year

Masons Campsite

27 units · Motorhomes1 acre · Skipton Bd23 6 Dd, England

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

Wanderlusts Gypsy Caravans

3 units · Glamping4 acres · Melmerby, England

Travelling from site to site in a bow-top gypsy caravan, through Cumbria's stunning scenery

100%

(1)

High Farm Holiday Park Ltd

37 units · Glamping, Motorhomes, Tents10 acres · Toft Hill, England

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Hamsterley Forest guide

Overview

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.

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.