The best campsites in Hamsterley Forest with horseback riding

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.

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Top-rated campgrounds near 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.

99% (142)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hamsterley Forest

1. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

3 units · Glamping · Penrith, Cumbria, North West England

Modern Lake District glamping pods among the trees, with exceptional views of Blencathra

2. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

1 unit · Glamping · Cumbria, North West England

A shepherd's hut for two in the lesser-known Lyth Valley, four miles from Lake Windermere

3. Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

98%

(61)

10 units · Tents, Motorhomes · Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, North East England

Camping in Nidderdale with excellent facilities, dogs and campfires welcome, and views over Thruscross Reservoir.

4. Otter Moss Accommodation

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(8)

4 units · Glamping · Brampton, England

Otter Moss Accommodation offers a variety of upscale camping options suitable for couples, families, and groups. Nestled within a picturesque 12-acre former farm, the majority of the site surrounds a spacious meadow. Additionally, the site boasts a charming small lake featuring three islands and a rowing boat for leisurely water activities. Situated at the northern edge of the stunning Eden Valley, guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Cumbrian Fells, with visibility extending to the Solway Firth and the Lake District on clear days. The Lake District is a convenient 40-minute drive away, while various sections of Hadrian's Wall are even closer, reachable within a 15-minute drive. Carlisle and the M6 motorway to Scotland are both just 20 minutes away, with the picturesque market town of Brampton also within a 15-minute drive and offering its own attractions. Local pubs are plentiful in the area, with a diverse selection available within a five-mile radius. Accommodation units at Otter Moss come equipped with heating, kitchen utensils, and stoves, ensuring guests' comfort and convenience. Each unit also includes firepits or barbecues, as well as bedding and towels for a hassle-free stay.

5. The Black Swan

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(26)

3 units · Glamping · Kirkby Stephen, England

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.

6. Crowdy Hall

100%

(2)

1 unit · Glamping · Stockton On Tees, England

Crowdy Hall is an off-grid retreat featuring several bespoke-built, timber-framed eco-cabins. Set in 200 acres of picturesque farmland, guests are encouraged to unplug, unwind and relax, enjoying a break away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Expect wood burning stoves for heat, fire pits on the decking and solar panels for power.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

I

Ian

September 2025

Tent

3 nights at Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

Really well laid out site. Quite steep in places with rough ground but fine if you are mobile. Toilet and shower facilities are excellent, as is the wash up area with phone charging facilities and shared fridges. Fantastic base to explore the area, right next to the Thurscross reservoir.

K

Kerry

September 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

I absolutely loved it here . It was my own piece of heaven ❤️

E

Elma

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Black Swan

Initially I wasn’t sure taking the lantern to do your (compost) toilet trip of 1.5 minutes but it worked as long as your mind doesn’t run wild in the dark when you’re on your own! But it all adds up to the whole experience of glamping without running water and electricity in the yurt. I loved the hot shower outside (I also used it to wash my hands after using the toilet), the sound of the stream, the hares who were very elusive, the log burner and the pub breakfast (included in the booking) and the pub food. I had to leave very early, it was still pitch black and I looked at the sky, it was magical with the stars and I even thought I could see 1-2 galaxies; I’m probably exaggerating but it was that clear without the light pollution. I loved the whole experience! Thank you!

T

Ted

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

Camping was beautiful here lovely walks with dogs very clean showers. Host were great.very friendly. And informative

F

Fil

August 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

Excellent facilities. Very welcoming, helpful owners. Very quiet site which suited us. Lots of space even for our large bell tent.

a

amy

August 2025

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

A lovely place to stay for camping with the kids, even with the midges :). The toilets were immaculate and plenty of shower rooms. We had a mix up with our pitch (i thought i had booked an electric pitch but it hadn't went through on hipcamp), the owner was brilliant and very accommodating. I wouldn't hesitate to book again if we are down that way.

S

Saskia

July 2025

3 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

We had a wonderful little getaway here, exactly what we needed nice and quiet and surrounded by nature, the pod was clean and cosy and provided everything you need for a stay. The bbq was really nice and worked well. Can was really wonderful and helpful especially with a little mishap we had. 10/10 I would recommend going here and we will definitely be back!

T

Tim

June 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

It was an outstanding stay at Jo's place. It was everything we wanted - quiet, peaceful, and very pretty. This was the ideal Lakes location.

L

Lisa

May 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

What a delightful little find. Absolutely lovely little hut in total isolation. Everything you need to get away from it all. Perfect evening sitting outside by the fire listening to the countryside. But equally great tucked up inside with the log burner on listening to the pouring rain.

K

Ken

May 2025

3 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

If you are looking for peace and quiet, surrounded by beautiful countryside then this place is for you. Great location. Great communication - Ruth came to see us when we contactedher about the WIFI. Use of private bathroom and shower. Only thing for us is that those facilities were across a farm yard and the cabin didn't have its own supply. The bed was comfy and the cabin stayed at a good temperature (even when it was cold outside). Fire pit available. Would recommend

Charles

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

Cosy hut in a perfect location, I would highly recommend.

J

John

May 2025

Weekend Trip to The Damson Shepherd's Hut

Beautiful little hut, on an incredibly picturesque plot of land. We had everything we needed (including the weather) to make for a great couple of days. Jo was amazing. Thank you

A

Alex

May 2025

2 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

A lovely stay, with excellent facilities and a great view! Would recommend to anyone looking for a destination in the Keswick area.

E

Eleanor

March 2025

Weekend Trip to Ewe Love Camping Pods

An amazing stay, amazing location with an even better view! The pods were well equipped and the underfloor heating was amazing. I will definitely be returning. Perfect location for our hike up Blencathra.

R

Reece

November 2024

3 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at the log cabin, from the great atmosphere to the welcoming and helpful people close by, it was one of nicest glamping experiences. The cabin was such a cozy experience along with the beautiful view right outside of your cabin. If you are looking for some time away to relax or for long walks or even a little boat around the stream Ottermoss is the place to go.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best campsites in Hamsterley Forest with horseback riding 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.