Campsites near Windermere

Sharing its name with England’s largest natural lake and set close to its shores in Lake District National Park, the modest town of Windermere mainly functions as a gateway to wider Lakeland exploration, along with its shoreside neighbour, Bowness-on-Windermere. From here, adventurers can cruise the open water, setting up camp somewhere along her banks, or head further inland to scale England’s mountainous midlands or sleep beneath the stars in remote rural spots. Seafaring folk can head south or west to the Irish Sea coast, where holiday parks and water sports centres host family-friendly activities, while long-distance trails such as the Coast to Coast Walk or Cumbria Way cut a scenic path through the Lake District’s top outdoor attractions. With so much natural beauty around, camping is quite simply the best ways to stay—choose camping in Windermere to find yourself immersed in scenery from sunrise to sunset.

97% (617) • 945 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Windermere

The Damson Shepherd's Hut

1. The Damson Shepherd's Hut

98%

(65)

4.7km from Windermere · 1 unit

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

Showers

Campfires

Potable water

Church Lane Campsite

2. Church Lane Campsite

98%

(22)

5.2km from Windermere · 36 units

Time for a slice of the simple life? Grab a peaceful Lake District pitch at Church Lane Campsite and immerse yourselves in proper scenic countryside with few distractions. This back to basics site has life’s essentials in place – in the form of drinking water, toilets and showers – but hasn’t gone overboard with other facilities, so you’ll simply be left to set up your space and soak up the gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Pitches here are on grass with trees around the field to provide a bit of shelter and shade – and the views are pretty much green as far as you can see. This setting gives the place a remote atmosphere that’s well suited to adventurous travellers, nature lovers and serenity-seeking couples or families. That said, it’s not actually all that remote – handily, you’ll be able to drive to Kendal in about 10 minutes for cultural attractions, shops and places to eat, and popular Windermere is about the same distance in the other direction. Closer still are a smart rural restaurant and the little village of Crook, a mile away and the home of the local pub – both excellent options for a good feed.

Showers

Potable water

Picnic table

Stock Park Lakeside Camping

3. Stock Park Lakeside Camping

93%

(101)

11km from Windermere · 15 units

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

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Fairy Bell Wood

4. Fairy Bell Wood

100%

(12)

18km from Windermere · 1 unit

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

Showers

Campfires

Potable water

Moss Side Farm Campsite

5. Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(135)

20km from Windermere · 25 units

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

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Lea field shap

6. Lea field shap

90%

(10)

22km from Windermere · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes

LEA FIELD CAMPSITE – SHAP, PENRITH New Caravan, Motorhome, Campervan Stopover Site Please Note There are No Toilets On Site But we Do Have a Chemical Waste Point & Waste water Point Just 2 minutes from Junction 39, M6 Perfect for an overnight stop or countryside break! Enjoy stunning open views, fresh air rural setting at Lea Field Campsite in the beautiful village of Shap near Penrith. Occasional traffic and train noise due to nearby road and railway.” ✅ What We Offer ✅ Electric hook-up points ✅ Fresh water access ✅Waste disposal point ✅Spacious grass pitches ✅Easy access from the M6 ✅countryside location ✅Beautiful panoramic views Only £20 Per Night inc Electric Ideal for: ✔ Motorhomes ✔ Campervans ✔ Caravans ✔️ Tents ✔ Stopovers on your journey north or south Relax, unwind and enjoy the countryside in a simple, peaceful setting. Lea Field Campsite – Shap, Penrith📍 2 mins from M6 J39 Message now to book or enquire! ☎️01931716351 📲07908276048

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Puddlemire

7. Puddlemire

98%

(63)

23km from Windermere · 21 units · Tents, Glamping

Camping in countryside between the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales

Campfires

Showers

Potable water

Hazel Mount Fellside

8. Hazel Mount Fellside

96%

(56)

25km from Windermere · 5 units

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

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

9. Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(167)

27km from Windermere · 34 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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Ewe Love Camping Pods

10. Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(120)

28km from Windermere · 3 units

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

Pets

Showers

Potable water

Howbeck Lodge

11. Howbeck Lodge

92%

(33)

41km from Windermere · 24 units · Tents, Motorhomes

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

Pets

Showers

Water hookup

Moss Rose Campsite

12. Moss Rose Campsite

98%

(89)

53km from Windermere · 25 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. The member of you're family who book the pitch must be 21 or over. 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.

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Potable water

Cairn Meadow Pods

13. Cairn Meadow Pods

98%

(30)

55km from Windermere · 3 units

Glamping pods in Cumbria's secluded Eden Valley with views of the Pennines

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Potable water

Otter Moss Accommodation

14. Otter Moss Accommodation

100%

(18)

56km from Windermere · 4 units

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.

Pets

Showers

Campfires

King Garth

15. King Garth

97%

(16)

62km from Windermere · 1 unit

Built in 1733, King Garth is also known as The Old Customs House, reflecting its role in these fraught times of smuggling. Its strategic position on the banks of The Eden served as the perfect lookout for a bailiff employed by Carlisle Corporation to protect the very important salmon fishery. The plaques on the building which commemorate the visits by Mayors date back to the 1700s. These visits no doubt involved indulgent banquets centring around freshly caught salmon I grew up on the opposite side of the river. On family walks along the Eden I was always fascinated by the house on the other side sited in such an amazing position. In 2010, when I returned to Cumbria I was amazed to hear that this house was for sale. It was a ruin and everyone told me I was mad..... I probably was a little! But I soon realised that I wasn’t alone in my love of this house, everyone I met from the surrounding villages had a tale to tell about this iconic place. King Garth is for sharing - with locals, (we have an annual barbecue), with wildlife and with people like you. The aim when renovating King Garth was to celebrate and embrace its history. King Garth is off grid and has no running water. It is furnished in a style to reflect its history. It isn’t everyone’s ‘cup of tea’: you have to drive a mile down a muddy lane, there is no hot shower, no electric lighting, and a compost toilet. BUT we offer beautiful evenings of candle light, log burner, hot tub under the stars and bathing in the river. My priority with King Garth and the land attached was to manage in a way to protect the abundant wildlife. There are also alpacas who you can look after during your stay. You will be astounded by the din the birds make at dawn and dusk! Inside the house there is an owl box where one summer a pair of barn owls successfully raised chicks. Since then a kestrel frequents the box and has twice laid there. This part of the Eden is tidal so both estuarine and river species co exist. Kingfishers and otters are often spotted And even the occasional seal! Kinggarth comes with fishing rights and if you want to fish this can be arranged with the host. The bird feeders are frequented by tree sparrows, yellow hammers, wood peckers, nut hatches and in winter red poll.

Pets

Campfires

Hot Tub

Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

16. Northcote Pods - Yorkshire Dales

100%

(12)

64km from Windermere · 2 units

We are ideally located in the picturesque Yorkshire Dales National Park, with our stunning Northcote Pods situated near Kilnsey Crag. Here, you’ll find spectacular views across Upper Wharfedale. Couples and families alike love to escape to our spacious, comfortable pods; there’s no better place for a holiday getaway. Parking outside the pod leads to a paved patio area with a private wood fired hot tub (Pheasant Pod ONLY), seating, BBQ. Inside offers double bed and sofa bed to accommodate up to 2 children and a hanging rail for clothes. Smart TV with a Netflix account connected, wifi and bluetooth ceiling speakers. Shower room with sink, toilet, shavers socket and heated towel rail. Fully fitted kitchen with sink, fridge, microwave, 2 ring induction hob, toaster and kettle. Dining table and chairs. Electric heating, USB sockets.

Showers

Campfires

Hot Tub

Hill Top Huts

17. Hill Top Huts

97%

(79)

64km from Windermere · 12 units

Scenic, simple glamping pods set beside a welcoming Pennines pub

Pets

Showers

Wifi

Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

18. Hadrian's Wall Country Yurts

100%

(14)

69km from Windermere · 2 units

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

Pets

Showers

Campfires

Copy House Hideaway

19. Copy House Hideaway

100%

(53)

74km from Windermere · 2 units

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

Pets

Showers

Campfires

Trawden Forest Glamping

20. Trawden Forest Glamping

100%

(16)

79km from Windermere · 3 units

Grown-up pod glamping on a woodland site in Lancashire

Showers

Campfires

Potable water

The best dog-friendly campsites near Windermere

Stock Park Lakeside Camping

93%

(101)

11km from Windermere · 15 units

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

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Moss Side Farm Campsite

94%

(135)

20km from Windermere · 25 units

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

Pets

Campfires

Showers

Lea field shap

90%

(10)

22km from Windermere · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Hazel Mount Fellside

96%

(56)

25km from Windermere · 5 units

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

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

96%

(167)

27km from Windermere · 34 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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Campfires

Ewe Love Camping Pods

98%

(120)

28km from Windermere · 3 units

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

Pets

Showers

Potable water

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Helen

2 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

We had a wonderful stay. The pods are beautiful, and really well fitted out. Everything you need, and all high quality. Best of all is the incredible view, and the remote yet easily accessible location. Can't wait to stay again.

laura

September 2026

Tent

3 nights at Howbeck Lodge

It was a great weekend! Christine was polite and helpful. The facilities were clean and well maintained. Will definitely be back

Nicola

September 2026

With pets

2 nights at Otter Moss Accommodation

Cute little cabin in a very seculded spot with nature literally on the doorstep. The deer are very friendly and that was definitely a highlight. Everything you needed in the cabin for a lovely break, as long as you don't mind the short walk to the bathroom. The internet didn't work but I got great signal on my phone so wasn't an issue. There are great walks really close by. I'd definitely reccomend a stay here.

Tetyana

September 2026

Tent

3 nights at Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

We stayed at your campsite for three nights and chose a pitch right next to the stream. We absolutely loved it! ❤️ The weather wasn’t on our side, but we actually spent all three days at the campsite without going anywhere, because we felt so comfortable and cosy there. The showers were great, and we really liked the little washing-up area everything was clean, convenient and well thought out. We had such a lovely and relaxing stay and will definitely come back again. We were honestly sad to leave! One thing we were pleasantly surprised about the campsite says there is no internet, but we actually had a really good 5G signal, so we had no problems staying connected at all. Thank you for such a lovely stay! We really enjoyed it. 😊

Helen

September 2026

4 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

We loved our stay in Tan Pod over the weekend. It was cosy and had exactly what we needed for a comfortable stay. The shower had great water pressure and was nice and hot. The amenities were ample and the bed was really comfy. The view was gorgeous and a joy to wake up to. The grounds and surroundings are beautiful. Perfectly situated between Keswick and Penrith with a delicious farm shop 10mins drive away. We would stay here again.

Tati

August 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Church Lane Campsite

Amazing campsite not far from Windermere and Ambleside. Had a pizza van each night and super nice warm showers! Beautiful nestled amongst sheep fields

Josh

August 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Ruth was very welcoming, accommodating and passionate about the site. The plots had lovely views, were peaceful and we really enjoyed our stay.

Hannah

August 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Moss Side Farm Campsite

Beautiful small campsite on a working farm with gorgeous views across the valley. Thoughtful touches throughout - from the little farmyard paintings in the facilities to the supply of wood, kindling and firelighters for our campfires. Will be back.

Joni

August 2026

With kids

2 nights at Ewe Love Camping Pods

Lovely little pod. Couldn't believe how many amenities there was in the pod, ie microwave, toaster, coffee machine. really clean and well looked after. Lovely location, beautiful scenario, and we would come back again. xx

jack

August 2026

Tent

1 night at Howbeck Lodge

The campsite was breathtaking, peaceful, and had little noise, though it was next to a working farm where work starts after 10:00 a.m. and stops before 6:00 p.m. It was a relaxing experience with wonderful staff, and the toilets and showers were clean; it is one of the better showers I have been to. I will definitely be going back with other freinds! Thanks again for a wonderful camp.

Michael

August 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hazel Mount Fellside

Next thing to wild camping was what was advertised, and it was, it was great! Ruth is obviously a caring and kind person and showed us personally around the land on the site was situated. Thank you Ruth, we enjoyed our pitch, sheep and all.

Lucie

August 2026

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Stock Park Lakeside Camping

Loved our trip. We booked site 2 with compost loo and shower. We were unlucky with the weather after 3 months of heat waves and no rain got every day raining but even with that loved it. Everything was easy and felt really relaxed. Also loved the sauna. Will be back for sure.

Sarah

August 2026

5 m campervan

With pets

2 nights at Moss Rose Campsite

Great space. Loved the way John had created good spaces for each pitch but also had long grass for the wild life. Very welcoming and everything set up really well. Loved the little shop and was grateful for the coffee machine as I had run out of gas.

Alexa

August 2026

With kids

Weekend Trip to Otter Moss Accommodation

Gorgeous little place, lovely hosts. Well equipped set up (camping pod). We hope to return soon!

Kira

August 2026

Tent

With kids

3 nights at Puddlemire

Me and my partner booked here for 4 nights with our two children and are looking to book again, we would highly recommend! The kids loved playing in the beck, we all walked through to the top which was amazing (remember your water shoes!) the campsite was quite and tranquil, we brought our own fire pit and wood but it is available to hire. The hill from the car park to the tents is great exercise but the owner is also there to help you with your things. Toilets and showers were clean. We would recommend any day. Thanks again for having us!

Martin

August 2026

Tent

2 nights at Moss Rose Campsite

Lovely site in a beautiful location with very friendly owners. Highly recommended.

Rehan

August 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Howbeck Lodge

Good campsite with decent facilities. My only issue was that the BBQ should come with coals and lighting equipment if it’s being paid for ? Besides this it was a lovely campsite , on a farm. Very clean and safe and good crowd.

jamie

August 2026

Tent

2 nights at Puddlemire

Really lovely sight, The stream next to the pitch is so nice to listen to and walk in Very tidy and well kept Shirley is really kind and was there if needed Please note no cars on sight however it is not too far from where you pitch AND don’t be put off as Shirley offered plenty of help transferring stuff from the car to the pitch. We will hopefully visit again soon, highly recommended

Khalid

August 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to Church Lane Campsite

i loved tent camping on their lands! The views were beautiful and directions were clear. The pizza was great idea :)

Molly

August 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Baystone Bank Farm Campsite

My partner and I had a fantastic time here, plenty of space on the plots, we had friends stay in the one opposite with their van, very ideal. Amazing views from the site but if you enjoy hiking there’s even more to be seen, toilets/showers kept clean and toilet roll never ran out you won’t need to bring your own if that’s a worry, fire pit on the plots are a lovely touch, perfect being able to get the £6 bags of fire wood on site, cash or card! Great signal on camp too as there’s 5G masts close by, for those that care! Bats at night to watch and a peaceful stream to fall asleep to. Gareth can’t be topped, he’s an amazing addition to the campsite, thank you🙏🏼

Windermere camping guide

Where to go

South Lakeland and the Furness Peninsula

Glamp sites, campgrounds, and luxury retreats line the banks of Windermere and her sister lakes, while Morecambe Bay and the Furness Peninsula boast seaside parks within an hour’s drive. From South Lakeland, the Cumbria Way guides hikers north via lakes, pikes, and waterfalls, while the nearby Arnside & Silverdale AONB hosts cycle-friendly routes and wildlife trails.

Copeland and Allerdale

Encompassing much of the Lake District’s western reaches, plus a vast stretch of Irish Sea shoreline, Copeland and Allerdale offer all manner of outdoor adventure. From scaling Scafell Pike and the Southern Fells to sailing on Derwentwater or embarking on the Coast to Coast Walk, there’s plenty to fill your days, while nights are catered for in coastal touring parks, rural campsites, or lakeside lodges.

Eden Valley and the North Pennines

Living up to its name, this idyllic region northeast of Windermere is a destination for hikers, bikers, boaters, and horse riders, thanks to a protected landscape of waterfalls, fells, and lakes. Several long-distance trails pass through the area and the adjacent national park, including the Pennine Way, with overnight options ranging from back-to-basics farm sites to luxury countryside glamping.

Howgill Fells and the Yorkshire Dales

East of Windermere, the Lake District’s dramatic landscape rolls through the Howgill Fells into another of England’s iconic national parks, the Yorkshire Dales. Best known for their wiley, windy moors and boating natural landmarks such as the Cautley Spout, the Dales are a rambler’s paradise, with hill-top camps, no-frills field sites, and luxury pods providing plenty of spots to rest weary legs.

When to go

The Lake District is among England’s wettest regions, so be prepared for rainfall at any time of year. The tourist season starts in April, when Wordsworth’s famous daffodils spring to life, though early arrivals can still enjoy relatively secluded views along the lake shores.

Know before you go

The closest major train station is Oxenholme Lake District, which connects directly to London, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.
The area is relatively well connected with public transport, though if you plan to travel to more remote spots it’s worth bringing your own vehicle.
Bike, boat, and camping gear rental can be found in Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere, as well as on some campsites.
Not all sites take walk-ins, especially in high season, so it’s worth booking in advance.
A mile north of Windermere is Ambleside, the starting and ending point for lots of walks and a good spot for hikers. At the far south of the lake is the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, a heritage steam railway with a restored station and short section of lakeside track.

Top camping destinations around Windermere

Frequently Asked Questions

What outdoor activities are popular in Windermere?

Hiking, biking, boating, and horse riding are popular outdoor activities in Windermere and the surrounding area. Several long-distance trails pass through the region, offering overnight options ranging from basic farm sites to luxury countryside glamping.

When is the tourist season in Windermere?

The tourist season in Windermere starts in April, when Wordsworth’s famous daffodils spring to life. Early arrivals can still enjoy relatively secluded views along the lake shores.

What public transport options are available in Windermere?

The area is relatively well connected with public transport, with the closest major train station being Oxenholme Lake District. However, if you plan to travel to more remote spots, it’s worth bringing your own vehicle.

Where can I find rental services for outdoor gear in Windermere?

Bike, boat, and camping gear rental can be found in Windermere and Bowness-on-Windermere, as well as on some campsites. Not all sites take walk-ins, especially in high season, so it’s worth booking in advance.

What are the camping options near Windermere?

Camping options near Windermere include glamp sites, campgrounds, and luxury retreats lining the banks of Windermere and her sister lakes. More options for camping near Windermere can be explored on Hipcamp.