The best campsites near Hawkshead, Cumbria with horseback riding

Get a dose of traditional North West England charm in Hawkshead village—an area bursting with whimsy and a variety of camping opportunities. Hawkshead falls within the boundaries of Lake District National Park—England’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. View unique artworks nestled in the woods of Grizedale Forest, cruise around Coniston Water by kayak, and watch the ever-changing tides in Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Then, cosy up in a wooden bunkie, set up a tent on a grass pitch, or drive the motorhome into a holiday park with fully-equipped caravan sites before venturing off to explore more of the region.

98% (178)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hawkshead

Get a dose of traditional North West England charm in Hawkshead village—an area bursting with whimsy and a variety of camping opportunities. Hawkshead falls within the boundaries of Lake District National Park—England’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. View unique artworks nestled in the woods of Grizedale Forest, cruise around Coniston Water by kayak, and watch the ever-changing tides in Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Then, cosy up in a wooden bunkie, set up a tent on a grass pitch, or drive the motorhome into a holiday park with fully-equipped caravan sites before venturing off to explore more of the region.

98% (178)

Top-rated campgrounds near Hawkshead

1. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

28km from Hawkshead · 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.

2. RHC & Glamping

100%

(7)

88km from Hawkshead · 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.

3. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

14km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

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

4. Crowdy Hall

100%

(2)

104km from Hawkshead · 1 unit · Glamping

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.

5. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

27km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

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

6. Breaks Fold Farm Glamping & Camping

98%

(61)

90km from Hawkshead · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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

7. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(60)

9.4km from Hawkshead · 1 unit · Glamping

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

8. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(8)

58km from Hawkshead · 4 units · Glamping

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.

9. Hazel Mount Fellside

98%

(49)

20km from Hawkshead · 5 units · Tents

Nearly wild camping on the western edge of the Lake District overlooking the Duddon Estuary

10. Logfire Holidays

100%

(2)

130km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

Emily Rose and Finch are set in our field garden, surrounded by farm land, high in the Clwydian range. Our hilltop setting affords far-reaching valley views and access to fabulous walks along Offa's Dyke from the doorstep. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers, star gazers and those wanting peace. The North Wales countryside and coastlines are waiting to be explored - think castles and beaches. Snowdonia and Liverpool can be reached in under an hour so why not add city sights and adrenaline fuelled mountain adventures to your holiday activity list, then return to laze in a hammock, picnic under the apple trees, and enjoy evenings around the fire-pit.

11. Sweet Knoll camping

100%

(8)

141km from Hawkshead · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Sweet Knoll Farm, with six acres of flat land, is ideal for camping with breathtaking views in the Peak District . It is great for walking, cycling, horse riding and caving. Next to a working farm, it is surrounded by sheep grazing and is next to the Pennine Bridle Way. Castleton a short drive away is famous for its caverns blue john and speedwell. The campsite has toilets and showers,washing up facilities indoor and outdoor.Fresh drinking water and picnic tables.

12. The Black Swan

100%

(26)

38km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

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.

13. Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

129km from Hawkshead · 8 units · Glamping

Lakeside glamping on the edge of Delemere Forest and a 10-minute train ride from Chester

14. Whitelee Farm Shepherd Huts

100%

(6)

147km from Hawkshead · 2 units · Glamping

Romantic en-suite shepherds huts on a riverside farm in the Peak District National Park.

15. The Hut at Hafod Las

100%

(3)

146km from Hawkshead · 1 unit · Glamping

A shepherd’s hut on a smallholding on the edge of the Clwydian Range

16. The Cabins Conwy

100%

(20)

137km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

Eco-friendly cabins in a wild, riverside setting, with views of the Carneddau Mountains

Camper favorites near Hawkshead

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Logfire Holidays

100%

(2)

130km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

Emily Rose and Finch are set in our field garden, surrounded by farm land, high in the Clwydian range. Our hilltop setting affords far-reaching valley views and access to fabulous walks along Offa's Dyke from the doorstep. This is a perfect spot for nature lovers, star gazers and those wanting peace. The North Wales countryside and coastlines are waiting to be explored - think castles and beaches. Snowdonia and Liverpool can be reached in under an hour so why not add city sights and adrenaline fuelled mountain adventures to your holiday activity list, then return to laze in a hammock, picnic under the apple trees, and enjoy evenings around the fire-pit.

Sweet Knoll camping

100%

(8)

141km from Hawkshead · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Sweet Knoll Farm, with six acres of flat land, is ideal for camping with breathtaking views in the Peak District . It is great for walking, cycling, horse riding and caving. Next to a working farm, it is surrounded by sheep grazing and is next to the Pennine Bridle Way. Castleton a short drive away is famous for its caverns blue john and speedwell. The campsite has toilets and showers,washing up facilities indoor and outdoor.Fresh drinking water and picnic tables.

The Black Swan

100%

(26)

38km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

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.

Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

100%

(32)

129km from Hawkshead · 8 units · Glamping

Lakeside glamping on the edge of Delemere Forest and a 10-minute train ride from Chester

Whitelee Farm Shepherd Huts

100%

(6)

147km from Hawkshead · 2 units · Glamping

Romantic en-suite shepherds huts on a riverside farm in the Peak District National Park.

The Hut at Hafod Las

100%

(3)

146km from Hawkshead · 1 unit · Glamping

A shepherd’s hut on a smallholding on the edge of the Clwydian Range

The Cabins Conwy

100%

(20)

137km from Hawkshead · 3 units · Glamping

Eco-friendly cabins in a wild, riverside setting, with views of the Carneddau Mountains

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

D

Duco

September 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We loved camping at Hazel Mount Fellside. The view was stunning and it felt more like a piece of nature with some scattered campsites than the opposite, which you most often find. Ruth was a very nice and welcoming host.

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 ❤️

N

Natalie

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Hut at Hafod Las

Our stay at the hut was lovely, so relaxing and quite, the breakfast that Helen provided for us gor when we arrived was delicious, the hut had everything we needed and the wood burner was so cosy for when it got a bit chilly, thanks Helen for a lovely weekend in the hut we will definitely be returning soon xx

Nova

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

We were lucky enough to get the site for ourselves for this trip and it was absolutely magical. the land and its views are so beautiful, it’s the first campsite i’ve been to that felt connected to the land it was on :’) ruth’s passion for the place shone, and all of the animals are so cute and special and it was so peaceful being there

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!

S

Stryczek

August 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Loved camping at snowdrop. Easy to park up and the pitch was ready for us on arrival. Very quiet and peaceful. Would highly recommend!

K

Kathryn

August 2025

2 nights at Chilled Out Adult Only Glamping

Had an incredible few days at lloyds meadow, my husband did some fishing while I relaxed and crocheted, the campsite was clean and quiet, we even caught the meteor shower on Tuesday evening along with the northern lights. Sarah was an incredible host, always checking we had everything we needed, and very friendly.

J

Jessica

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Lovely campsite! The pitches are extremely spacious - it felt like we were wild camping. Ruth is extremely welcoming. She’s built something special. Would definitely recommend!

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

K

Keerti

August 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

Ruth was a wonderful, kind and fascinating host. Her land is stunning and with an ecologist background Ruth is determined to ensure and enable that her land thrives with life diversity as nature intended. It’s a really beautiful natural space and well connected to Millom, Lake Conniston, the stone circle and many other beautiful places to visit and for convenience. Thank you Ruth for accommodating us and for all your tips!

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.

N

Nidal

August 2025

Weekend Trip to RHC & Glamping

We stayed in the Cygnet pod, it was clean, warm and well stocked with cups and coffee/tea. We enjoyed the onsite sauna and complimentary alkaline water then had dinner from the cafe. The pizzas were delicious. Excellent customer service and a lovely bit of the north west to enjoy. 10/10

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

Simona

July 2025

5 m travel trailer

2 nights at Sweet Knoll camping

Such a lovely campsite! We will definitely be back, thank you x

M

Miley

July 2025

2 nights at RHC & Glamping

I love Glamping’s in Rachel’s land there is a great view and loved how there’s horses just up from the cabins and a walk to get to the top of the mountain would definitely go again but no shops near by but got an uber witch was quite cheap

R

Rachel

July 2025

1 night at RHC & Glamping

The site was easy to find and in a beautiful and peaceful setting. Gaining access to the pod was easy and even though not on site when I arrived, the owner left her number and answered my calls straight away. The pod had good amenities and was very cosy, the shower block and toilet area were extremely clean. It was a relaxing and stress free stay

L

Lynn

July 2025

Tent

3 nights at Hazel Mount Fellside

The site was really peaceful with amazing views of the fells and estuary. Ruth showed me around and explained the little extras like the lending library and tiny snack shop. It was so nice to get away from it all and relax in the serene surroundings. Bluebell pitch was exactly as described with some amazing trees. The wildlife (including a tawny owl, woodpecker and a frog) were an unexpected bonus. I would definitely recommend the site to everyone. Thank you Ruth for a lovely stay.

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.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best campsites near Hawkshead with horseback riding guide

Where to go

Grizedale Forest

A 10-minute drive south brings campers to Grizedale Forest, where creative forces and mother nature combine. Stroll through 4,000 hectares of woodland and discover outdoor sculptures dotted throughout the landscape. Campers can walk, bike, and horseback ride on numerous trails, ranging from 1–16 kilometres long. Spend the night at bunkies, wooden pods, and yurts that are situated within the forest boundary. Or pitch a tent at the campsite area with toilets and showers—it’s also dog-friendly.

Coniston Water

Refresh at Coniston Water—one of England's biggest lakes—situated 15 minutes southwest of Hawkshead. It’s 8-kilometres long and boasts excellent spots for swimming, fishing, and boating. Find more fun on shore, where campers can conquer the Old Man Coniston hike—a 6-kilometre circular loop that delivers gorgeous views of the lake below. Camping options at Coniston Water include grass and hardstanding pitches with individual electrical hookups, and many nearby private campsites also offer communal flush toilets, showers, and laundry facilities.

Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

A mixture of rolling hills, woodlands, and coastal shoreline awaits in Arnside & Silverdale AONB. Head to Morecambe Bay and plan to arrive when “The Bore” rushes in—an awe-inspiring tidal wave. Then, take to the hills and get a panoramic view from Arnside Knott or Warton Crag. Both hills have several walking trails and prime areas for birdwatching. There are several nearby holiday parks equipped with full hookups, as well as tent-friendly pitches on farmland and luxurious lakeside glampsites well-suited for anglers.

When to go

May, June, and July are peak travel times around Hawskead for campers seeking the driest weather and warmest temperatures. August can be unpredictable and rain is very common until March. The weather throughout the year is mild, with temperatures staying above freezing and under 20°C at their hottest. When planning activities, make sure to double-check dates of operation. Guided cruises in Coniston Water only run from spring until the end of October.