The best great views campsites near Kendal, Cumbria

Easily reached from the M6 but also perfectly placed for national park access, this tourist hub just outside the Lake District offers easy access to the fells, woods, lakes, and peaks the region is known for. Campers on limited time can tick off iconic Lake District landmarks such as Windermere, Skiddaw, or Scafell Pike without having to travel far, while those looking for something a little different can travel into nearby Lancashire in search of less famous outdoor destinations. Glamping and camping remain popular ways to soak up the Lake District atmosphere, with a range of holiday parks, luxury pods, and backpacking campgrounds offering options for all manner of Hipcampers.

94% (234)

Top-rated campgrounds near Kendal

Easily reached from the M6 but also perfectly placed for national park access, this tourist hub just outside the Lake District offers easy access to the fells, woods, lakes, and peaks the region is known for. Campers on limited time can tick off iconic Lake District landmarks such as Windermere, Skiddaw, or Scafell Pike without having to travel far, while those looking for something a little different can travel into nearby Lancashire in search of less famous outdoor destinations. Glamping and camping remain popular ways to soak up the Lake District atmosphere, with a range of holiday parks, luxury pods, and backpacking campgrounds offering options for all manner of Hipcampers.

94% (234)

Top-rated campgrounds near Kendal

1. Harebeck Holidays

84%

(22)

46km from Kendal · 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. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

61km from Kendal · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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

3. Chapel View Wild Campsite

97%

(31)

121km from Kendal · 3 units · Tents

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.

4. Burrs Manor Wild Camping

87%

(152)

135km from Kendal · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Nearly wild camping in the Peak District National Park, near Buxton

5. Camping at The Hollies

95%

(232)

141km from Kendal · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Back-to-basics camping at the foot of the Roaches in the Peak District National Park

6. Tyne View Camping

100%

(17)

89km from Kendal · 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

7. Plas yn Llangoed

94%

(71)

144km from Kendal · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

Camping pitches and bell tents on Anglesey Island with views across the Menai Strait to the mountains of Snowdonia

8. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(131)

29km from Kendal · 33 units · Tents

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

9. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

36km from Kendal · 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

10. White Peak Camping

99%

(465)

135km from Kendal · 18 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Camping on a Peak District farm near the Monsal Trail

11. The Old Chapel Campsite

98%

(97)

35km from Kendal · 30 units · Tents

Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines

12. White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

91%

(93)

135km from Kendal · 61 units · Tents, Motorhomes

What a little Derbyshire gem: back to basics Whitehouse Farm Campsite is a simple site in a most scenic setting five minutes’ drive from the pretty village of Tideswell. The site’s central location in the Peak District National Park means it’s a top spot for those who want to ramble or ride bikes – several circular trails leave from Tideswell and the traffic-free Monsal Trail is a five-minute drive away. And there’s plenty more activity if you require it too, as activity centres nearby can sort you out days of horse riding, abseiling, climbing and caving. All this activity isn’t mandatory, of course – this is an equally fine location for days pottering off to local pubs, pigging out on pudding in Bakewell or taking a leisurely stroll around the Chatsworth Estate, 20 minutes away. And if even that’s too much, you’d be welcome to spend some time loafing about on site: there’s heaps of space here, and as facilities have been kept quite minimal (just showers and toilets) there should be a good serving of peace and quiet to go with it all. Guests are welcome to light up a barbecue or campfire for cookouts and keeping warm; Tideswell’s the place for supermarket supplies, and it’s also handily got a fish and chip shop and a couple of pubs for days when your firelighting skills aren't up to much.

13. Chrome Hill Campers

98%

(22)

137km from Kendal · 5 units · Motorhomes

Far reaching views from one of the highest touring site in England, overlooking Chrome Hill in the picturesque village of Hollinsclough in Derbyshire. The site only accepts campervans and has 5 pitches available. This is a new site and has new toilet and shower facilities, water and waste disposal points and also there is a secure paddock area for children to play.

14. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

37km from Kendal · 3 units · Glamping

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

15. Beirhope Alpacas

98%

(137)

129km from Kendal · 11 units · Tents

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

16. Bickley Rigg Farm Glamping Wagons

100%

(27)

140km from Kendal · 4 units · Glamping

With a private valley, formed in the last ice age, acres of land and woodland to explore, our farm has a very special feeling which has been mentioned by every visitor. Occupied by some beautiful wildlife, including buzzards and owls, deer, badgers and foxes. The Wagons have a grass roof, firepits, sleep 4 (in double bunk format), they are hand-made from reclaimed materials salvaged from the local town and other areas, double skinned and insulated with sheeps wool. They have a 2-ring gas-burner in the cute kitchen area, dining table and seating, and are the perfect home away from home. All the decor is vintage, including cuttlery, crockery and even the childrens teddy's. Being on the doorstep of Dalby Forest, there are hours of entertainment to be had. You can follow the stream at the bottom of the valley to the River Derwent or venture into the surounding woods. We can provide a guest pass (free access) for Dalby Forest. The Wagons are not powered by electricity and are romantically lit by candles and oil lamps. Heated by cast iron gas heaters.

Camper favorites near Kendal

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

White Peak Camping

99%

(465)

135km from Kendal · 18 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Camping on a Peak District farm near the Monsal Trail

The Old Chapel Campsite

98%

(97)

35km from Kendal · 30 units · Tents

Nearly wild camping in the North Pennines

White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

91%

(93)

135km from Kendal · 61 units · Tents, Motorhomes

What a little Derbyshire gem: back to basics Whitehouse Farm Campsite is a simple site in a most scenic setting five minutes’ drive from the pretty village of Tideswell. The site’s central location in the Peak District National Park means it’s a top spot for those who want to ramble or ride bikes – several circular trails leave from Tideswell and the traffic-free Monsal Trail is a five-minute drive away. And there’s plenty more activity if you require it too, as activity centres nearby can sort you out days of horse riding, abseiling, climbing and caving. All this activity isn’t mandatory, of course – this is an equally fine location for days pottering off to local pubs, pigging out on pudding in Bakewell or taking a leisurely stroll around the Chatsworth Estate, 20 minutes away. And if even that’s too much, you’d be welcome to spend some time loafing about on site: there’s heaps of space here, and as facilities have been kept quite minimal (just showers and toilets) there should be a good serving of peace and quiet to go with it all. Guests are welcome to light up a barbecue or campfire for cookouts and keeping warm; Tideswell’s the place for supermarket supplies, and it’s also handily got a fish and chip shop and a couple of pubs for days when your firelighting skills aren't up to much.

Chrome Hill Campers

98%

(22)

137km from Kendal · 5 units · Motorhomes

Far reaching views from one of the highest touring site in England, overlooking Chrome Hill in the picturesque village of Hollinsclough in Derbyshire. The site only accepts campervans and has 5 pitches available. This is a new site and has new toilet and shower facilities, water and waste disposal points and also there is a secure paddock area for children to play.

Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

37km from Kendal · 3 units · Glamping

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

Beirhope Alpacas

98%

(137)

129km from Kendal · 11 units · Tents

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

Bickley Rigg Farm Glamping Wagons

100%

(27)

140km from Kendal · 4 units · Glamping

With a private valley, formed in the last ice age, acres of land and woodland to explore, our farm has a very special feeling which has been mentioned by every visitor. Occupied by some beautiful wildlife, including buzzards and owls, deer, badgers and foxes. The Wagons have a grass roof, firepits, sleep 4 (in double bunk format), they are hand-made from reclaimed materials salvaged from the local town and other areas, double skinned and insulated with sheeps wool. They have a 2-ring gas-burner in the cute kitchen area, dining table and seating, and are the perfect home away from home. All the decor is vintage, including cuttlery, crockery and even the childrens teddy's. Being on the doorstep of Dalby Forest, there are hours of entertainment to be had. You can follow the stream at the bottom of the valley to the River Derwent or venture into the surounding woods. We can provide a guest pass (free access) for Dalby Forest. The Wagons are not powered by electricity and are romantically lit by candles and oil lamps. Heated by cast iron gas heaters.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

a

antje

November 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

⸻ White Peak Camping is such a beautiful and peaceful spot — absolutely loved our stay. The campsite is perfectly situated with easy access to stunning walks all around. The toilets were decent and clean, and the little phone-charging points are such a thoughtful touch if you need them. We also really appreciated the free fire pits, which made the evenings super cosy. The owner, Janice, was great and very communicative, and her son Matt even came to check on us to make sure we didn’t get stuck with our van after the storm the night before. Really lovely people. One thing to note is that they place strong emphasis on keeping noise down — no loud music at all — which we actually loved, because it made the whole place incredibly quiet, calm, and relaxing. Highly recommend White Peak Camping if you’re looking for a beautiful, peaceful countryside escape. Thanks, Antje and Jay

L

Luke

November 2025

4 m Class B

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

Really good location, short walk to a nice pub near a river. A quiet campsite with beautiful views!

G

Graeme

November 2025

5 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

We said we'd be back again and we were. Still great! Lovely location, great views, clean loos. Great if you just want the basics. Thanks again!

T

Tim

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Bickley Rigg Farm Glamping Wagons

Staying in 'Oxo'. Amazing cozy little hut full of amazing personal touches and a lovely warm welcome from the owner and some lovely little luxurys on a welcome tray. The site has a little dog run, a little shop for beers, wine and eggs, washing facilities and fire.pits. Brilliant stay.

O

Oliver

October 2025

6 m Class B

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

I went in October so it was really nice and quiet. Toilets were clean and it had a phone charging station. Good instructions for arriving

R

Rachel

October 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at White Peak Camping

I literally never write reviews for anything even when I triple promise I will but this place is just that awesome. It's got all the essentials so makes it comfortable (even on a stormy Oct night first time camping alone with my daughter!) But not too much that you feel like you're cheating- the whole point for me was for it to feel challenging, hey you survived that dear daughter you can do anything (without her dying from exposure). The toilets were nicer and cleaner than all weatherspoons loos, 2 charging ports for phones and a sink, lots of bins for rubbish and a gorgeous site with beautiful views (& a cute little swing). The views of the peak district were just stunning on the way down too. Janice was amazing - she walked down to us in the pouring rain (after a full day's work) to check we had everything! We'll definitely be back again, possibly when it's a bit warmer

m

martyn

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

Brilliant base camp site, stayed here for the third time. Plenty of walks near by lovely views. Toilets always kept clean. Will definitely be back again.

M

MICHELLE

October 2025

5 m car

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

A lovely rural quiet place to stay. Fantastic views and lovely walks right on the doorstep. Beautiful rural quiet spot with fabulous views. Great value for money. Would 100% definitely recommend. A nice touch was the picnic benches and a tree swing. The toilets were extremely clean and fully flushable with running water and hand soap/handtowel. 5* from me!

D

Duncan

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at White Peak Camping

Great spot, I was the only camper. Hiked 10km with my dog, put my tent up, cooked evening meal on my trangia on one of the wooden tables that are there, could have walked say 10 minutes to the pub but couldn’t be arsed, so just sat quietly with the dog enjoying the peace and quiet! Toilets are clean and there’s a cold water sink for washing up which is also v clean. Met the farmer on the way in, very pleasant chap. Great place! Hiked back to my car this morning. Lovely break from work!

G

Gary

October 2025

Tent

1 night at White Peak Camping

Smashing location and a great base for walking to and around Millers Dale. I will return in the future.

M

Mick

October 2025

4 m Class B

1 night at White Peak Camping

Simple back to basics site, toilet and wash facilities good and clean. Great location to wind down from daily stress and a beautiful open sky

J

Jane

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Tyne View Camping

Awesome pitch. Fantastic views. David was really friendly and welcoming. We will definitely be back. Relaxed atmosphere. Loads of space.

A

Andrea

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bickley Rigg Farm Glamping Wagons

Outstanding natural setting, quirky old school accommodation, facilities and host. Not for those who can’t live without modern conveniences. Loved it!

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!

I

Isobel

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at White Peak Camping

So beautiful, so wonderful! Loved it and would recommend.

J

Jonathan

October 2025

Tent

1 night at White Peak Camping

I visited solo (motorbike camping) mid-week and I was the only one here! I chose this site as I wanted a basic, quiet site to stopover for a night. It provided just that, so clean and quiet and such a pleasant stay. Granted it is next to a working farm so there were a few cows chattering through the night but all adds to the charm. Clean toilets (x3) and wash up block, no shower or hot water but not an issue for this stay. Free fire pit and wood was available for purchase although I did have my own this time. Overall a great, back to basics and quiet location located in a lovely part of the world ☺️

J

Jonny

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bickley Rigg Farm Glamping Wagons

We had a really lovely stay in OXO. There were countless considerate details that really elevated our stay, such as a lovely warm welcome note and delicious local treats left for us. Bruce is a great host and we had a really memorable stay.

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.

K

Kate

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to White Peak Camping

A quiet space, for the most part, and a lovely one! (There are motorcycles that pass occasionally on a nearby road but these were not too noisy). Clean, well lighted loos were so welcome to us tent-campers!

M

Michael

September 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Old Chapel Campsite

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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views campsites near Kendal guide

Where to go

South Lakeland and the Furness Peninsula

Home to iconic attractions such as Windermere, Hill Top, and the Arnside & Silverdale AONB, South Lakeland is a destination for any Lake District newbie, particularly those with kids. Closer to Kendal, rural holiday parks and working farms provide plenty of overnight options, while coastal camps and glampsites can be found in their dozens down on Morecambe Bay.

Copeland and Allerdale

Discover coast, mountains, lakes, and cascades across these two diverse districts to the west of the park. The soaring peaks of Skiddaw and Scafell Pike are great for climbers and keen hikers, while Derwentwater or Bassenthwaite boat rides offer a more relaxed view of the scenery. The famous Coast to Coast Walk begins on the Saint Bees Head Heritage Coast in Allerdale, crossing the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors on the way to Robin Hood’s Bay on the east coast, and is lined by no-frills field sites and luxury grounds along the way.

Howgill Fells and the Yorkshire Dales

Just east of Kendal, the Howgill Fells roll their way into the Yorkshire Dales, another of England’s must-see national parks. Moors, coves, peaks, and waterfalls draw climbers and all-terrain amblers, while the region’s back-to-basics sites and luxury grounds provide options for backpackers and glampers alike.

Forest of Bowland AONB

If you’ve somehow had enough of the Lake District, this ancient region of moorland and fells remains one of England’s hidden gems. About 90 minutes' drive from Kendal, the area is known for its diverse flora and fauna, hiking and biking trails, and dark skies, with quiet campsites and glamp sites offering ideal spots to soak up the stars.

When to go

As one of the wettest regions in England, Kendal and the Lake District enjoy year-round rain, though this is at its lowest around April. Like many of the region’s tourist towns, Kendal is busiest during the summer and school holidays, so skip these times if you’re after a more sedate experience.

Know before you go

Oxenholme Lake District is the closest station to Kendal and has direct connections to London and Edinburgh.
Public transport is relatively well connected throughout the region, though it can be useful to bring your own vehicle or bike.
Walk-ins aren’t accepted everywhere, so it’s wise to book ahead.
Many campsites hire out equipment. Otherwise, supplies can be purchased in one of Kendal’s outdoor shops, including Mountain Warehouse and Nevisport.
For cyclists the Grizedale Forest on the other side of Windermere is a great destination to head for and for fell walking.
The Lake District is not Kendal’s only national park neighbour—the town is also situated only a short drive from the Yorkshire Dales National Park, so a day spent walking, cycling or horseriding among its meadows and moors is another option for the active.