Camping in the Peak District National Park

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Few places epitomise camping better than the Peak District, home to the Dark Peak and White Peak. (Though they sound like opposing forces in the battle between good and evil, we can assure you both are equally worth exploring!) Smack-bang in the middle of England and within day-trip distance of Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds, the Peak District National Park is Central England’s go-to spot for hikers, cyclists, and campers. Explore more than 1,600 miles of rights of way, tackle Olympian-approved mountain biking trails, or challenge yourself with some of the country’s best rock-climbing. Adventures come with sweeping views—craggy peaks, emerald hills, and country lanes—and there are endless options for campers, glampers, and caravanners. Back-to-basics campsites offer a place to pitch your tent in secluded surroundings, while others offer relaxing glamping retreats. May through October provides the most favourable weather for hikers and tent campers, but there’s always a chance of showers (this is England, after all).

94% (1.4K) 2,198 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Peak District National Park

White Peak Camping

1. White Peak Camping

98%
(624)
Buxton, England · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Camping on a Peak District farm near the Monsal Trail
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

2. White House Farm Campsite, Wardlow

91%
(108)
Wardlow, England · 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.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Damside Campsite

3. Damside Campsite

98%
(26)
England · 10 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Well-maintained and peaceful wild camping site in the Peak District Buxton 15 minutes’ drive; Chatsworth House half an hour Dogs welcome; 10 minutes’ walk from a pub; nearby playground Just how remote would you like your holiday accommodation to be? If the answer is fair to middling, Damside Campsite might just be the place for you: this pop-up spot is surrounded by the glorious wilderness of Peak District National Park. Doesn’t get much more blissfully peaceful than that – except for the occasional lowing cow, all is stillness here. Having said that, don’t worry: you won’t have to scramble across hills and dales for a pint: a traditional pub serving real ales and home-cooked food is right in the village of Peak Forest, a 20-minute walk away. Both the site and the pub welcome dogs, though it might be wise to keep them on a lead when walking past the farm animals. This is wild camping; facilities might not be abundant (there are no showers), but they are well maintained and include a portable toilet and a washing-up area. There is also fresh running water, and you’re welcome to start a campfire or a barbecue. You can grab essentials in the village shop, or head to Chapel-en-le-Frith (10 minutes) or Buxton (15 minutes). If you’re here with the kids, the flat, grassy field where you’ll set up your tent makes for an excellent play area on which to run around, kick a ball or fly a kite. A nearby playground has swings, slides, a small adventure course and a multisport pitch. Walking paths start from right outside the farm, or you can drive to hiking areas like Chee Dale Stepping Stones (10 minutes), a dramatic gorge on the River Wye.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Burrs Manor Wild Camping

4. Burrs Manor Wild Camping

88%
(197)
Buxton, England · 30 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Nearly wild camping in the Peak District National Park, near Buxton
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Stretton House Campsite

5. Stretton House Campsite

94%
(32)
England · 40 units · Tents, Motorhomes
If you like the sound of having farm shops and ice cream farms nearby, as well as access to lots of walking and cycling trails, Stretton House Campsite should be a fine pick for you. It has a strict no noise policy after 10pm, meaning that you should get a peaceful night's sleep too. This site is in the grounds of the 400-year-old Stretton House surrounded by the Cheshire countryside with handy transport links nearby and outdoor activities in no short supply… that includes things like alpaca walking, golf or Manley Mere’s watersports haven (a 20-minute drive away for the latter). You’ll have your pick of two fields, both with car parking by the pitch free of charge and dogs allowed. The facilities include separate male and female toilet blocks, pay per use shower block, mobile phone charging facilities, free wifi and chemical toilet disposal and a drinking water standpipe. You’ll have permission to start up a barbecue or firepit too (subject to the correct safety measures). When you’re ready to get going, the friendly owners will be willing to help out however they can and suggest possible days out, which may include fishing or walking at Pickmere Lake (10 minutes’ drive), visiting an ice cream farm (within 10 minutes’ drive of the site) or going to the local golf course (five minutes’ drive). For food, there’s a farm shop just two minutes’ walk away from the site where you’ll be able to get your hands on local produce. Pubs aren’t far away either – there is one pub five minutes' walk away, and another 15 minutes' walk away. Festival goers are very welcome, and the Creamfields Festival site is five minutes’ drive away. Please respect the quiet hours (no noise is permitted after 10pm) and environment, as the owners' home is on the grounds (and stick to the field's facilities only). No waste accepted onsite. All rubbish must be taken home at the end of your stay.
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Campfires
Showers
Chrome Hill Campers

6. Chrome Hill Campers

98%
(48)
England · 5 units
Far reaching views from one of the highest touring site in England, overlooking Chrome Hill in the picturesque village of Hollinsclough in Staffordshire 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.
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Woodsworth Exploring

7. Woodsworth Exploring

97%
(79)
Ilkley, England · 12 units
Nearly wild woodland camping in West Yorkshire’s Bronte country
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
fields farm campsite church lane sk

8. fields farm campsite church lane sk

100%
(8)
Buxton · 25 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Adults-only, small and quiet family-run site in the Peak District National Park A 15-minute drive from Buxton, the Pennine Way and Monsal Trail Pet-friendly pub two minutes’ walk away; barbecues permitted on site Fields Farm Campsite is just the place for a peachy Peak District break. Just outside of a rural village named Peak Forest in the national park, this site is a walkers’ haven, with the Pennine Way and Monsal Trail just 15 minutes’ drive away (along with Buxton, a classic Peak District town with a spa history, meaning you can pamper yourself on this day out). Handily, there are walks direct from the door too. You can get to Eldon Hole in just over 10 minutes and dubbed one of the seven wonders of the Peak District, the pothole is an impressive sight. Peak Forest is just five minutes’ walk away too and here, you’ll be able to sample some homecooked food in a pet-friendly traditional country pub. Adjacent to the owner’s home, the grassy pitches have scenic views of the countryside (a great side dish for breakfast times, that’s for sure). And in the evenings, perhaps a barbecue will be another way to settle into the rural atmosphere. Happily, dogs are permitted here, so you won’t have to leave them behind. As for gathering together snacks, sandwiches and other stuff to keep you going while you’re out and about in the national park’s towns, villages or traffic-free trails, there is a pop up honesty shop in the pub carpark, main food shops are a 10 minutes’ drive away in Chapel-en-le-Frith or Tideswell to help you tick off your shopping list. We are in the middle of peak park great walks we are in a small village next to pub good home cooked food lots of local villages blue john mine chatsworth house stateley home of the duke of devonshire with it fantastic grounds. We are 5 miles from the spar town of buxton a lovely victorian town with lots of things to do. We are 2 minutes walk from local pub with good food and local shop eldon hole, castleton, or just chill out this is a adult site only
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Campfires
Potable water
Tackeroo Campsite

9. Tackeroo Campsite

96%
(77)
Staffordshire, England · 49 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Basic pitches (without toilet facilities) in Forestry Commission-owned woods beside a renowned mountain biking trail
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
The White Lodge

10. The White Lodge

92%
(66)
Cannock Chase, England · 5 units · Tents, Motorhomes
A traditional campsite close to Staffordshire’s canals, river, and stately homes.
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Camping at The Hollies

11. Camping at The Hollies

96%
(274)
Buxton, England · 50 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Back-to-basics camping at the foot of the Roaches in the Peak District National Park
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Campfires
Showers
The Duchess's Meadow

12. The Duchess's Meadow

100%
(18)
England · 2 units
Tucked away in peaceful woodland yet just a short stroll from the vibrant heart of Buxton, The Duchess’s Meadow offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and convenience. Set within the private grounds of Corbar Hill House — originally built in the 1850s as a retreat for the Mistress of the 7th Duke of Devonshire — our site sits amid tranquil trees and abundant wildlife. Expect to spot owls, rabbits, woodpeckers, and even the occasional stoat and deer, all against a backdrop of panoramic views across Buxton and the Peak District. Our family fell in love with this land and set out to create a welcoming space where visitors can relax, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of the area. Whether you’re here for a peaceful stopover or a longer stay, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature yet just a 10-minute walk from Buxton’s bustling town centre. Buxton is famed for its natural thermal spring water, elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture, and rich cultural scene. Home to the magnificent Buxton Crescent, the Opera House, and the gateway to the Peak District National Park, it’s the ideal base for exploring Derbyshire’s scenic walks, limestone caves, and charming villages. At The Duchess’s Meadow, you’ll experience the best of both worlds — the calm of the countryside and the charm of a historic spa town, all from the comfort of your motorhome. Please note - it is a fairly steep short drive up to the pitches. Nobody has really struggled but worth noting.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Intake Farm

13. Intake Farm

99%
(74)
Alton, England · 7 units · Tents, Glamping
Quirky glamping and nearly wild camping on a farm in Staffordshire
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Crowdecote Campsite

14. Crowdecote Campsite

Buxton, England · 1 unit
A small Adult Only Campsite with 5 Hardstanding Winter Pitches ​The Site offers pitches with or without Electric Hookups ​The Toilet Block has both Male and Female sections, each consisting of 2 Toilets, 2 Washbasins and 1 Shower (Free-to-use) ​The pub is a 200m walk from the Site entrance ​Firepits are permitted provided they are raised off the ground sufficiently to protect the grass. The site is Dog friendly.
Electrical hookup
Pets
Marbury Camp and Lodge

15. Marbury Camp and Lodge

97%
(18)
England · 23 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Small, simple family run camping and glamping site on the Cheshire / Shropshire border with local market towns a stones throw away. Around an hour away from Manchester, Liverpool, Chester and Birmingham, but most definitely far enough away for a break from city life. Great pubs within 30 mins walking distance and close to Cycle Routes, Walking Routes, Farm Shop Cafes, Markets, Supermarkets, a Gin Distillery (open to the public), three wedding venues, a kids tree top adventure amusement park, just to name a few. If camping isn’t for you, book one of our 4 glamping pods complete with central heating, a shower/WC, TV and cooking facilities. Small licensed shop on site. For the best rates, call 01948 502250. Hollyhurst Road, Marbury, SY13 4LY Electricity is 5 Euros per night.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Langley Wilding Campsite

16. Langley Wilding Campsite

100%
(5)
Ashbourne, England · 16 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Langley Wilding Campsite is set in a wildflower meadow, surrounded by woodland on Lodge Farm just outside Kirk Langley. It offers a simple eco-friendly getaway where you can enjoy peaceful surroundings, connect with nature and escape the bustle of everyday life. Our family farm is managed for nature restoration, providing a refuge for wildlife and people alike. Enjoy life’s simple pleasures: plenty of space, fresh air and waking up to birdsong. Langley Wilding Campsite is about slowing down and appreciating the small things that matter. Whether you're coming for a weekend break, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, you’re very welcome here.
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Oakwood Marina

17. Oakwood Marina

93%
(115)
Northwich, England · 26 units · Tents, Motorhomes, Glamping
Canal-side camping with campfires, set in 30 acres of countryside and with an on-site tea rooms
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Fire and Stars Woodland Camping

18. Fire and Stars Woodland Camping

98%
(57)
Ibstock, England · 5 units
Wild camping in the woods with campfires, starry skies and a pub just across the road
Pets
Campfires
Showers
Chase Camping

19. Chase Camping

97%
(59)
Rugeley, England · 42 units · Tents, Motorhomes
Tent camping and bell tents for hire on a family farm within easy walking distance of Cannock Chase Forest
Pets
Showers
Potable water
Anzio Heights

20. Anzio Heights

100%
(7)
England · 10 units
Anzio Heights Campervan & Motorhome park is a former ww2 army barracks and polish settlement village set in the beautiful countryside of Blackshaw Moor, Staffordshire, on the edge of the Peak District National Park. Positioned on elevated ground, this small site enjoys far-reaching rural views, stunning sunsets, a calm, relaxing atmosphere—ideal for self-contained campervans and motorhomes. The park offers spacious, well-kept pitches with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the surrounding landscape. Its quiet location makes it perfect for those seeking a tranquil break, while still being close to a wide range of attractions and scenic walks directly from the park. Local attractions include: Alton Towers Resort (approx. 10 minutes away) – one of the UK’s top theme parks The Peak District National Park – walking, cycling, and breathtaking scenery The Churnet Valley – known for its woodland trails, riverside walks, and heritage steam railway Rudyard Lake – peaceful lakeside walks and cafés Leek – a charming market town with independent shops, pubs, and cafés Tittesworth Reservoir – popular for walking, wildlife spotting, and picnic areas Whether you’re stopping over for a short stay or using Anzio Heights as a base to explore Staffordshire and the Peak District, it offers a comfortable, scenic retreat for your travels and provides a backdrop of stories and experiences from the past.
Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Peak District National Park camping guide

Where to go

Dark Peak

The northern Dark Peak area is characterised by soaring gritstone ridges and windswept moors, which make for impressive hiking, rock climbing, and a wilder feel. The whole region is atmospheric even on a grey day and especially beautiful in summer when flowering heather forms a carpet of purple. Set out from Edale along part of the legendary Pennine Way footpath, scale the park’s highest point at Kinder Scout, or explore the lakes of the Upper Derwent Valley.

Central Peak District

The spa town of Buxton leads the way to the central highlands of the Peak District, where the heather-blanketed moorlands and cottongrass meadows are crisscrossed with hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails. Villages like Hathersage, Hope Valley, Castleton, and Eyam provide a variety of camping options, from simple tent campsites and farm campgrounds to caravan parks with fully serviced and electric pitches.

Derbyshire Dales

The riverside village of Bakewell, best known for its iconic Bakewell tarts (plan a pitstop here for afternoon tea), is the gateway to the Derbyshire Dales, the sheep-dotted southeastern section of the park. Hit the High Peaks Trail for spectacular views or hike the 46-mile-long Limestone Way, which winds its way through White Peak’s caves and gorges. Camp out at rural Hipcamps or bunkhouses along the way.

Staffordshire and Cheshire

The southwestern limits of the Peak District National Park tumble over into the counties of Staffordshire and Cheshire. The Staffordshire villages of Leek, Wetton, and Ilam make ideal basecamps for hiking The Roaches or family day trips to the Alton Towers theme park, while country walks and National Trust properties await in Cheshire to the north.

Top 10 Things to Do in the Peak District

You could spend weeks wandering the heather moorland of the Dark Peak and yet more days rambling beside streams in the White Peak—and you still might risk missing out on some of its most spectacular spots. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best things to do in the region.

1. Walk on Kinder Scout

A great place to start your camping holiday in the Peak District is at Kinder Scout, where it’s said that the park began. Follow in the footsteps of the ramblers who paved the way for the “right to roam” back in the 1930s.

2. Climb on gritstone

Whether you’re a hiker, a climber, or a lover of good views, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to Stanage Edge, a four-mile gritstone edge offering stellar views across the Dark Peak. Elsewhere in the park, experienced climbers can find dozens of routes to try, while beginners can join an outdoor adventure outfitters offering guidance and equipment hire.

3. Discover Bronte country

The Peak District provided ample inspiration to Charlotte Bronte as she penned her famous novels. Walk the Bronte Way or visit Haddon Hall, said to be the best example of a medieval manor house in existence, and the set of no fewer than three film versions of Bronte’s tales.

4. Walk up Mam Tor

A walk or run up the National Trust-protected Mam Tor at the western end of the Hope Valley will take you to an elevation of more than 500 metres, from where you can see panoramic views.

5. Cycle the High Peak Trail

A perfect route for families, the 17-mile, traffic-free High Peak Trail is made for cycling, walking, and horse-riding along the route of a former railway.

6. Visit Chatsworth House

One of England’s most magnificent stately homes, Chatsworth is home to the Duke of Devonshire. A visit may provide a bit of a contrast to your tent or glamping accommodation, but with the house, gardens, playground, and farmyard, you’ll be entertained for the whole day.

7. Cross the River Dove

The River Dove runs through the Dovedale National Trust Nature Reserve, a picturesque place to walk, picnic, and look out for wildlife. While in the area, it’s almost obligatory to cross the river on the Dovedale stepping stones.

8. Try a Bakewell tart

The Peak District’s largest town, Bakewell is a pretty place on the banks of the River Wye. It’s a convenient place to stock up on provisions and most importantly, try the local produce—including Bakewell pudding, which was invented here.

9. Head underground

Explore the intriguing underworld of Castleton’s caves: The Derbyshire caves are the only place in the world where you can find the semi-precious Blue John stone. Take an underground boat trip to the Bottomless Pit in Speedwell Cavern to spot stunning stalagmites and stalactites.

10. Enjoy a spot of stargazing

Sitting round a campfire in the middle of the Peak District is the perfect time to brush up on your astronomy skills or simply gaze in wonder at the stars. There are also three designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites at National Trust car parks where conditions are perfect for stargazing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Camping prices in the Peak District vary depending on the type of accommodation and the facilities provided. You can expect to pay anywhere from £10 to £25 per night for a basic tent pitch. Prices may be higher for campsites with more amenities, such as electric hook-ups, shower facilities, and on-site shops. Keep in mind that prices may also vary depending on the time of year and the site's popularity. To find a suitable campsite in the Peak District, visit Hipcamp's Peak District National Park page.

Yes, the Peak District is an excellent destination for camping. As the first national park in the United Kingdom, it offers a diverse landscape of moorlands, limestone valleys, and picturesque villages. There are numerous campgrounds, both within the park and in the surrounding areas, including Edale, which is a popular base for exploring the park. The Peak District is perfect for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers, with plenty of trails and outdoor activities to enjoy. Just remember to follow the park's guidelines and respect the environment during your stay.

To camp in the Peak District, follow these steps:

  1. Choose a campsite: You can find various campsites in and around the Peak District, including private campsites, caravan parks, and National Trust campsites. Select a campsite that suits your preferences and budget.
  2. Make a reservation: Once you have chosen a campsite, check its availability and book your stay in advance. This can be done online or by phone. Keep in mind that some campsites may require a deposit.
  3. Prepare your gear: Pack your camping gear, including a tent, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, food, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Don't forget a map and a compass or GPS if you plan to hike or explore the area.
  4. Follow local rules and regulations: Familiarize yourself with the campsite's rules and regulations, as well as any specific guidelines for the Peak District. This may include restrictions on campfires, noise levels, and waste disposal.
  5. Leave No Trace: Practice the Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Dispose of waste properly, respect wildlife, and leave the area as you found it.
  6. Enjoy your stay: Take advantage of the beautiful scenery, walking and hiking trails, and other outdoor activities that the Peak District has to offer. Make sure to respect other campers and the natural environment during your stay.

Remember that wild camping is not permitted in the Peak District, so always choose a designated campsite for your stay.

When camping in the Peak District, there are various campgrounds and caravan parks available to accommodate your van. Some popular options include: 1. Fieldhead Campsite - Located in Edale, this campsite offers facilities for tents, campervans, and motorhomes. 2. Hayfield Camping and Caravanning Club Site - Situated near Kinder Scout, this site welcomes tents, caravans, and motorhomes. 3. Greenacres Camping - Located in Whatstandwell, this campsite offers pitches for tents, caravans, and campervans. Please note that wild camping is not permitted in the Peak District, so it is essential to utilize designated campsites and caravan parks for your van camping experience.

No, you cannot camp anywhere in the Peak District. Wild camping is not permitted in the Peak District National Park, as it consists of a mix of public and privately owned land, and you must have the landowner's permission to camp on private property. However, there are many designated campgrounds and campsites throughout the park that cater to various camping preferences, from basic tent sites to glamping options and caravan parks. It is important to respect the park's regulations and only camp in authorized areas to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the Peak District.

Wild camping is not officially permitted in the Peak District, as most of the land is privately owned or part of a national park. However, some people choose to discreetly camp in remote areas, following the "Leave No Trace" principles and respecting the environment. One such popular location is the Kinder Scout plateau. Remember that wild camping is done at your own risk and it's essential to be respectful of the land and its rules.

Wild camping is not officially permitted in the Peak District National Park, as most of the land is privately owned or managed by various organizations. However, there are many designated campsites and campgrounds throughout the area where you can stay for a fee. If you're set on wild camping, it's essential to obtain permission from the landowner and follow the Leave No Trace principles. Keep in mind that wild camping is generally more accepted in remote areas with few visitors, rather than popular tourist spots.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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