Mountain Camping Near Penrith, Cumbria

Nestled between three of England’s largest natural areas, Penrith is ideal for outdoor camping escapes. Head west to Lake District National Park, England’s largest national park, where towering peaks and deep lakes make for exciting hikes and refreshing swims. To the east, North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers peaceful moors for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. Finish off with a journey south to Yorkshire Dales National Park and sleep under the stars in an official Dark Sky Reserve. Wild camping near Penrith is available by landowner permission for campers who want to stay in the heart of nature, while plenty of public tent pitches, caravan sites with amenities, and cosy cabin rentals with soft beds make it easy to stay inside the parks and AONBs.

97% (221)

Top-rated campgrounds near Penrith

Nestled between three of England’s largest natural areas, Penrith is ideal for outdoor camping escapes. Head west to Lake District National Park, England’s largest national park, where towering peaks and deep lakes make for exciting hikes and refreshing swims. To the east, North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers peaceful moors for walking, cycling, and horseback riding. Finish off with a journey south to Yorkshire Dales National Park and sleep under the stars in an official Dark Sky Reserve. Wild camping near Penrith is available by landowner permission for campers who want to stay in the heart of nature, while plenty of public tent pitches, caravan sites with amenities, and cosy cabin rentals with soft beds make it easy to stay inside the parks and AONBs.

97% (221)

Top-rated campgrounds near Penrith

1. Camping at Cardewlees

99%

(47)

25km from Penrith · 37 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping

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

2. Woodman's Huts

99%

(58)

51km from Penrith · 3 units · Glamping

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

3. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(149)

58km from Penrith · 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

4. Dod Mill Fishing Hut

116km from Penrith · 1 unit · Glamping

Artistic riverside cabins in the grounds of a 17th-century watermill

5. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(10)

37km from Penrith · 1 unit · Glamping

An off-grid yurt in a private woodland between the Lakes and the Dales

6. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(131)

52km from Penrith · 33 units · Tents

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

7. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(108)

17km from Penrith · 3 units · Glamping

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

8. Damson View Glamping

100%

(55)

41km from Penrith · 5 units · Glamping

Self-contained glamping pods in the Lake District's beautiful Lyth Valley

9. Copy House Hideaway

100%

(67)

96km from Penrith · 2 units · Glamping

Luxury shepherd's huts with wood-fired hot tubs and an adjoining log cabin for extra space

10. Primrose Cottage Camping

100%

(8)

114km from Penrith · 13 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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.

11. Lake District Herdwick Huts

100%

(1)

30km from Penrith · 5 units · Glamping

You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat! You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by. Each with fresh linen, wood burning stove and cast iron gas hob, you are sure to be comfortable even in the thick of winter.

12. The Black Swan

100%

(26)

35km from Penrith · 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. Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%

(3)

93km from Penrith · 1 unit · Glamping

A cosy, romantic getaway. Unwind and reconnect, surrounded by nature and amazing dark skies. The spacious, well-equipped yurt is tucked away in a large private home garden in a beautiful glen, with Scaur Water just over the road. The Yurt at Craignee is a cosy, off-grid retreat, with wood burner and garden area, surrounded by peace and wildlife. Enjoy lots of home comforts with an extra dash of adventure! #bbcwildlife60places winner STL Number: DG01053P

14. Coxons Farm Luxury Glamping Pods

100%

(7)

86km from Penrith · 2 units · Glamping

Luxury pod glamping in the Yorkshire Dales, set on a working farm with a pub across the road

15. Broom Fisheries Campsite

48km from Penrith · 4 units · Glamping

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

16. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

34km from Penrith · 2 units · Glamping

Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall

17. Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%

(2)

16km from Penrith · 3 units · Glamping

Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.

Camper favorites near Penrith

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Garden Yurt in a hidden glen

100%

(3)

93km from Penrith · 1 unit · Glamping

A cosy, romantic getaway. Unwind and reconnect, surrounded by nature and amazing dark skies. The spacious, well-equipped yurt is tucked away in a large private home garden in a beautiful glen, with Scaur Water just over the road. The Yurt at Craignee is a cosy, off-grid retreat, with wood burner and garden area, surrounded by peace and wildlife. Enjoy lots of home comforts with an extra dash of adventure! #bbcwildlife60places winner STL Number: DG01053P

Coxons Farm Luxury Glamping Pods

100%

(7)

86km from Penrith · 2 units · Glamping

Luxury pod glamping in the Yorkshire Dales, set on a working farm with a pub across the road

Broom Fisheries Campsite

48km from Penrith · 4 units · Glamping

Luxury caravans ideally situated next to picturesque Scottish fishing lakes

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(13)

34km from Penrith · 2 units · Glamping

Two yurts with hot tubs in the Cumbrian countryside just a mile away from Hadrian’s Wall

Carrock Pods Lake District Glamping

100%

(2)

16km from Penrith · 3 units · Glamping

Carrock glamping pods is a brand new, luxury Glamping Pod for couples. It is located on a traditional working farm nestled at the foot of Carrock Fell, with stunning views and direct access to the Northern fells of the Lake District. No driving is required to get to the start of your walks, thus reducing your carbon footprint. Only leaving footprints in the ground.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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.

n

natasha

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

We stayed in the yurt at Fairy Glen Wood and it was just perfect. It had everything we needed for a relaxing little retreat peaceful, comfortable, and surrounded by nature. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely love to come back!

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!

A

Ally

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

Just returning from our first visit to Cardewlees and we could not of asked for a better stay. Cardewlees is an absolute little gem of a campsite and Johnny could not have been a better host if he tried. Toilet and showering facilities were more than adequate and the water was always nice and warm. Thank you for a perfect stay and we look forward to coming back soon. Ally and Lee x

E

Eleanor

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

A simple but friendly camping experience. A very attentive host!

M

Mark

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Stayed for a couple of nights and had a great time, good facilities and one of the few campsites open to letting people enjoy a sensible camp fire. Staff were all friendly and helpful too

L

Lisa

August 2025

Weekend Trip to Fairy Bell Wood

This is a truly beautiful space. We've stayed in lots of yurts and this is the nicest by far. It's fab to have somewhere to sit inside if you need. But lovely spots outside too. The kitchen area is really useful and has everything you'd need. We followed the instructions for the shower and it worked perfectly. I loved the full length window to lay in bed and watch the sunset. Best of all if you're as anti social as me..... It's totally on it own! We re already planning our next visit.

L

Louise

August 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

Absolutely everything about the site was immaculate and so carefully thought out. Beautiful yurts, beautiful surroundings and the most amazing glamping trip.

S

Suzanne

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Primrose Cottage Camping

Lovely campsite with nice clean toilets! Would definitely recommend.

J

Jennifer

August 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Really nice campsite with good facilities. It was quite busy but it wasn't too noisy. Staff were friendly. I was on a hardstanding pitch and my only gripe was, the grass that we had allocated for the pitch wasn't really quite wide enough to secure my awning as well as I would have liked. The awning just about fit on. We had some sandwiches made by the guy in the cafe to take on our walk which were good. Lacking veggie options though.

Natalie

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

I can not recommend Baystone enough. THE VIEWS ARE AMAZING! I was not expecting them from the pictures shown by stunning the wash facilties are clean and maintained access to onsite fridge and freezer. Good pitch sizes with fire pit. I will be back as soon as possible. Camp warden was lovely super friendly. I explained my dog prefers space and she was more willing to accommodate. The on lead rule is followed by all guests which was a reason I picked the sight. There is alot of live stock so your dog does need to be okay with horses and sheep around. Noise levels were quiet by 10pm every night. Cafe on site was lovely and have a small shop with some goodies avaliable (tecos 8 min drive away) beautiful beaches, peaks near by. I loved it

L

Leann

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

A well-kept campground with responsive and friendly staff. No frills but well-kept shower block with small communal fridge and washing up sinks. Kids will love seeing animals on the farm, too.

M

Megan

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping at Cardewlees

The campsite had lovely views and the facilities were very accessible.

E

Ellen

August 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

Really lovely place! Very peaceful vibe and the babbling brook was a calming companion. Enjoyed the fires and the hot showers too 💚

E

Erin

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Moss Side Farm Campsite

Fantastic site, it's quiet, there are a variety of animals milling around, and the host is friendly and approachable.

A

Andy

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Primrose Cottage Camping

Great stay at primrose cottage camp site, We will definitely be back.

G

George

July 2025

4 m Class B

3 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

One of the best campsites we've been to! Was our first time using a campervan and it was perfect here - everything dead easy. Lovely clean showers and toilets, amazing views, beautiful stream running through it, chilled vibes and top staff - big shout to Emma & Danny who were great hosts :)

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!

Nicholas

July 2025

4 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

Another brilliant stay. Can't fault it. Will be returning.

L

Lisa

June 2025

5 m Class B

Weekend Trip to Primrose Cottage Camping

Lovely spot with nice views. Toilet blocks were spotlessly clean. There were a few other campers there, but the site was very peaceful and quiet. Few pubs and small shops within easy walking distance. Helpful communications from Laura. Would recommend a stay here if you want to get away from it all.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountain campsites near Penrith guide

Where to go

Lake District National Park

Over 3,100 kilometres of public trails and more than 50 accessible walking paths make Lake District National Park a popular destination for outdoor exploring. Take in sweeping views over Lake District with a hike up Scafell Peak, then cool off with a splash in Wastwater—England’s deepest lake. To stay the night in the park, secure landowner permission and enjoy wild camping, or explore a wealth of public tent pitches, private cottage rentals, and caravan sites at nearby holiday parks.

North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Ramble beside rivers and hike over the moors with a visit to North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visit High Force, England’s biggest waterfall, and then horseback ride, walk, or cycle around the rest of the AONB. Sixteen Dark Sky Discovery Sites deliver stunning night sky displays. Stay overnight in the park at caravan sites or tent pitches in rolling meadows or book a private pet-friendly glamping pod within the park that offers wifi, picnic tables, and toilets.

Yorkshire Dales National Park

In Yorkshire Dales National Park, campers can admire rushing waterfalls in the Gordale Scar or stroll alongside River Wharfe for peaceful picnics on the riverbank. Then summit the Yorkshire Three Peaks on a 39-kilometre circular walk, or try one of the shorter walks up a single peak to take in the views. Home to an official Dark Sky Reserve, Yorkshire Dales National Park is a beautiful spot to linger overnight in a tent or caravan at private caravan parks near River Ribble or farm stays with bell tents, timber pod rentals, and a large camping field.

When to go

Camping near Penrith is most popular from June to August, when warmer temperatures around 19°C and sunny weather make for inviting outdoor adventures. Campers chasing autumn colours should visit from mid-October to early November, when walks by River Wharfe offer vibrant displays. Winter near Penrith tends to be rather wet with average temperatures around 6°C. Layer up and bring along waterproofs for stays between November and March.