Best campsites for hikers near Sunderland

In Sunderland, hikers have over 70 campsites to choose from, each offering direct access to trails that wind through coastal cliffs, wildflower meadows, and ancient woodland. You’ll find options ranging from simple tent pitches to secluded bell tents, many with sweeping views of the North Sea. Top picks include The Old Chapel Campsite (58 reviews), Walkmill Campsite (43 reviews), and Hill Top Huts (27 reviews)—all praised for their easy trail access and peaceful settings. Facilities like toilets and showers are standard, and most sites welcome pets. When you’re not hiking, you can cast a line, watch for otters and red squirrels, or try your hand at surfing on nearby beaches. Nights start as low as £20, with an average around £84, so you can plan a trip that fits your budget without sacrificing experience.

97% (167) • 280 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sunderland

In Sunderland, hikers have over 70 campsites to choose from, each offering direct access to trails that wind through coastal cliffs, wildflower meadows, and ancient woodland. You’ll find options ranging from simple tent pitches to secluded bell tents, many with sweeping views of the North Sea. Top picks include The Old Chapel Campsite (58 reviews), Walkmill Campsite (43 reviews), and Hill Top Huts (27 reviews)—all praised for their easy trail access and peaceful settings. Facilities like toilets and showers are standard, and most sites welcome pets. When you’re not hiking, you can cast a line, watch for otters and red squirrels, or try your hand at surfing on nearby beaches. Nights start as low as £20, with an average around £84, so you can plan a trip that fits your budget without sacrificing experience.

97% (167) • 280 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Sunderland

1. Moss Rose Campsite

99%

(61)

145km from Sunderland · 28 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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, with lovely hot showers, clean toilet facilities, fresh water point, pot wash area, phone charger lockers, communal freezers, elsan disposal point, microwave, coffee/hot chocolate machine, 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 have a lovely little woodland walk, with a meandering mown path, that winds through our woodland/conservation area. Perfect to walk your dog, and let your kids explore. Adjoining the campsite, we have a padock with super frindly sheep that love to say hello. We sell little bags of sheep feed, just incase you'd like to give them a little treat. In the middle of the site, we have a little tots play area, perfect for keeping you're small kids entertained. We are a Quiet family site, with a Reduced Noise policy from 9 pm, and Quiet Time from 10 pm to 8.30 am. Latest check in time is 8PM, unless prearranged with the campsite. 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.

2. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

141km from Sunderland · 8 units · Motorhomes, Glamping

Nestled between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea coast this site is situated on a working dairy and sheep farm. Farm tours can be arranged on arrival. A play hut with outdoor games, drying room with communal fridge and freezer (some units have their own small fridge). Natural hedges surround the site. Four fruit trees near the shower block Half a mile to Gosforth village with Shop, Bakery, Cafe, 4 Pubs providing food and an Italian restaurant. Gosforth and Seascale villages have play parks. Muncaster Castle, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Wasdale, Scafell Pike and Sandy Beaches with Cafes selling local ice cream are nearby with most Lake District attractions within an hours drive and Edinburgh a three hour drive away. There are 5 campervan/motorhome pitches, a pod, a modern take on a shepherds hut with underfloor heating, a heated pod and two gypsy caravans with electricity to book. All pitches are on gravel positioned to enjoy views over farmland to Scafell Pike and other fells, they are surrounded by grassy areas with seating and a picnic table. A wooden play hut has outdoor games and toys inside. Awnings can be added on the 3 larger pitches. Tents can be pitched next to units for an extra £10 per night. Barbeques are allowed on gravel with our Gypsy Caravans having a campfire area. There is a communal fridge and freezer, outdoor drying space. Farm tours can be arranged. Wildlife and farm animals can be seen in the surrounding fields. Fresh vegetables and barbeque packs can be ordered with 24 to 48 hours notice. Grocery deliveries accepted from supermarkets. There is also a holiday cottage on the farm sleeping 6 over two rooms. Situated midway between the Western Lake District Fells and the Irish Sea Coast makes this site ideal for lower or higher level walks. Sandy beaches at Seascale and St Bees have cafes selling locally made ice cream alongside play areas to keep children happy. Scafell England's highest mountain is close by as are a number of Wainwrights. Nearby is Muncaster Castle and Gardens with its Hawk and Owl Centre, also Ravenglass (a Roman port with remains of a bath house),  you can ride up the Eskdale Valley on the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway (Laal Ratty). Perhaps take a stroll to Stanley Ghyll waterfall. They have a cafe at both terminuses with a museum in Ravenglass where nearby you can sample Ravenglass Ice Cream. Wasdale and Ennerdale are close by both valleys having cafes and pubs.

3. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

107km from Sunderland · 3 units · Glamping

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

4. Masons Campsite

102km from Sunderland · 27 units · Motorhomes

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

5. RHC & Glamping

100%

(7)

141km from Sunderland · 6 units · Glamping

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.

6. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

140km from Sunderland · 47 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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

7. The Old Chapel Campsite

98%

(97)

74km from Sunderland · 30 units · Tents

Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines

8. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

103km from Sunderland · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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

9. Howbeck Lodge

94%

(27)

105km from Sunderland · 29 units · Tents, Motorhomes

A dog-friendly farm campsite on the northern edge of the Lake District

10. Walkmill Campsite

98%

(122)

50km from Sunderland · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Refreshingly understated private camping in the unspoiled Northumberland countryside

11. Beirhope Alpacas

98%

(137)

88km from Sunderland · 11 units · Tents

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

12. Butt Farm, Beverley

100%

(189)

135km from Sunderland · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

A family-friendly campsite on a working East Yorkshire Farm just outside the market town of Beverley

13. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(131)

133km from Sunderland · 33 units · Tents

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

14. Social District

92%

(93)

121km from Sunderland · 30 units · Tents

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

15. Wold Farm Caravan and Camping Site

100%

(9)

118km from Sunderland · 4 units · Motorhomes

A cliff-top, Yorkshire paradise for bird lovers

16. Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

98%

(61)

101km from Sunderland · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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

17. Hill Top Huts

97%

(121)

50km from Sunderland · 12 units · Glamping

Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub

18. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

126km from Sunderland · 3 units · Glamping

Beautiful handmade shepherd's huts in the heart of the picturesque South Lakes

19. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

113km from Sunderland · 1 unit · Glamping

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

20. Dobella Lane Farm Certificated Site

92%

(13)

138km from Sunderland · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Tom

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Lovely spot to camp. The little creek made for some tranquil background noise to fall asleep & the local hiking was very picturesque. Thanks!

V

Virginia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Lovely location, beautiful views. Comfortable pod and great with enclosed garden for the dog. Good facilities too.

M

Michael

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

Great spot to camp. Ted is very friendly and accomodating!

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.

Brian

September 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

1 night at Walkmill Campsite

Spacious clean campsite. Now our best one yet! We chose the upper circle which gave us a lot more space and better views. Clean toilets. Nice little shop with extras for guests. Will certainly recommend and return.

K

Kinga

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

Absolutely amazing stay at Beirhope Alpacas. You can tell that Lynne has set everything up with love and care. Alpacas are a cherry on top of everything else. My 4 year old twins cried when leaving because they wanted to live there. We definitely found a new yearly visit place ❤️

J

Jennifer

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

This Alpaca farm is an absolute must visit. Unfortunately we were only here for 1 night but what a visit! This specific pitch is the middle one 1 of 3 that are in front of the Alpaca/Sheep fields and we couldn't have asked for better neighbours. Lynne was extremely helpful upon our arrival and offered help with anything if it was needed...which it was when I realised I had the mattress but not the stopper to keep it inflated! She came to my rescue with cushions to sleep on which was over and above as far as I'm concerned. We were provided carrots to feed the animals that evening and my son (4yo) loved feeding Harry the goat and between him and his friends it was a game to see who could feed Houdini before Harry got in the way 🤣 This morning my son was scheduled to feed the alpacas and whilst he was initially nervous he warmed up on the walk and confidently clapped Deeno. This site is a bit off the road but take it easy and enjoy the scenery. Beirhope Farm is in a pretty stunning part of the country and I would 100% recommend a visit to anyone looking for everything you need on a camping trip. If you forget anything she has everything covered, including an honesty 'larder' for the snacks or bits and pieces that you've forgotten. Stunning! We will be back.

K

Kerry

September 2025

3 nights at The Damson Shepherd's Hut

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

K

Kathy

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

We stayed in Phil’s Patch for just one night on our way north. Lynne offered us a warm welcome. We had our own private enclave in the trees. Posh composting toilets and everything well thought out. Wish we’d used the unique shower!

P

Paulette

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Beirhope Alpacas

The surroundings are truly beautiful, scenic, calm and peaceful. Lynne has ensured that everything a camper needs is close at hand. The pitches are well spaced out and on good solid terrain. Clean, accessible facilities, well maintained. Adorable alpaca herds literally over the fence. A wonderful retreat, we will definitely return. Lynne is simply lovely and has hit the nail on the head with this site.

C

Cliff

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Walkmill Campsite

This is a delightful site. Very peaceful and everything is immaculately clean and tidy. Close to coast. Highly recommended

Richard

August 2025

4 m pop-up camper

With pets

2 nights at Moss Rose Campsite

Absolutely tranquil and family friendly site, second only to the amazing family run operation, which was so welcoming. Both John and Joe were interested in making our stay as comfortable as possible without being overbearing. They care for their site and their customers. We will definitely return like the many repeat customers they entertain, proving that they have got their product just right. Thanks again

S

Sarah

August 2025

5 m Class B

1 night at Howbeck Lodge

Good roomy level gravelled site especially suited to motorhomes but I was happy there in a camper. Facilities were clean with plenty of hot water. Christine v prompt in her comms.

E

Emma

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Moss Rose Campsite

Our second time here. Absolutely wonderful hosts, John would’ve put our tent up for us just to stop us arguing!! They’re always around, cleaning, helping and chatting. Never known hosts like that before, it’s so nice. Loved all the baby birds!! Will definitely be back, thanks for a wonderful stay. Love Emma, Matt, Chloe and Alyssa xxx

M

Maria

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Social District

The views were beautiful!! We camped next to the lake so my husband and boys spent most of the time fishing. Will definitely go again next year and bring the paddling board with us

R

Rimas

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Old Chapel Campsite

I had the most wonderful stay at this campsite over the weekend. It’s such a lovely spot, set on a farmyard where chickens, ducks, and geese wander around freely, which gives it a really peaceful and charming atmosphere. Each pitch comes with its own firepit, and wood is thoughtfully provided – such a nice touch that made the evenings really special. The host, Ted, is absolutely brilliant. He’s a genuinely lovely, well-spoken gentleman who takes the time to come around the site to check that everyone is happy and comfortable. You really feel looked after here. It’s rare to find a campsite that feels this welcoming and relaxed. Honestly, I can’t say a bad word about it – it’s perfect. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a cosy, friendly getaway.

H

Heather

August 2025

Tent

1 night at The Old Chapel Campsite

Ted was so friendly and made sure we were as comfortable possible during our stay. He went above and beyond to help with anything we needed. We will definitely come back, thank you 😊

L

Laura

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

I loved staying at the old chapel! It was lovely with amazing views and not far from more amazing spots! Ted was a lovely host and made the stay even better, would 100% recommend.

E

Eva

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

We had a fantastic stay! Ted was an incredible host - welcoming, helpful, and made sure everything ran smoothly. The land itself is absolutely beautiful, well-maintained, clean and views are stunning. Even during a busy bank holiday weekend, there was plenty of space for everyone, so it didn’t felt crowded. A lovely bonus was the presence of ducks and chickens on the property, which meant we had access to delicious fresh eggs in the morning..such a treat! We thoroughly enjoyed our time here and will definitely be returning. Highly recommended!

V

Victoria

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Walkmill Campsite

I loved the campsite. The plots were very spacious and not at all crammed in, so there was lots of room for my toddler to run around in. The facilities were good as there was a static caravan with a kitchen, bathroom, toilet and even a couple of lounge areas, which would be useful if you got bad weather. It was so handy having the use of a hot water for washing up. I would definitely go back!