Waterside campsites near Windsor
Get a right royal experience at a countryside campsite near the historic town of Windsor.
Waterside campsites near Windsor guide
Where to go
Windsor and Maidenhead
With parks, moors, and the River Thames right on the doorstep of Royal Windsor, there's no need to travel far to get a glimpse of the great British outdoors. Mobile and caravan parks line the river's banks, while family-friendly sites such as Hurley Riverside Park offer easy access to the home counties as well as the Thames Path National Trail.
Reading
Also on the Thames Path, this historic market town is best known for its annual music festival, though its abundant farmland is home to many privately run campsites that draw visitors year-round. Campgrounds and holiday parks serve as outdoor oases in the city's vicinity, many known for kid-friendly pitches. Reading can be reached from Windsor in half an hour by road or train.
Chiltern Hills AONB
Active adventurers are sure to love the hills, fields, and woodlands that make up this Area of Natural Beauty, with a range of rambling and riding routes to choose from. There's even an annual walking festival! Several working farms offer private camping, while the scenic spots of Ashridge Estate, Ivinghoe Beacon, or Radnage Valley make for stunning sights to wake up to. The gateway town of High Wycombe is about a 25-minute drive away, or 90 minutes on public transport via Slough.
South Downs National Park
Home to countless working farms and all manner of natural retreats, the expansive and diverse South Downs National Park is a camper's paradise, just 90 minutes south of Windsor by car. You can easily explore the region's chalk hills, wooded heaths, and villages by following the South Downs Way National Trail on foot, by bike, or on horseback.
When to go
Though summer tends to bring the best weather for any outdoor pursuit in England, the vibrant colours of autumn or dramatic frosts of winter certainly have their own charms. June, July, and August are often very busy around Windsor, especially during the Reading Festival and Royal Ascot weekends.
Know before you go
- Public transport is generally camper-friendly, but if travelling with gear, it's wise to avoid peak times—especially if connecting in London.
- Some rural campsites are quite remote, so it can be useful to have a vehicle.
- You'll find a branch of Cotswold Outdoor in Windsor Yards, where you can buy or rent gear and pick up top tips.