Lakeside bell tents near Oxford

Nature reserves, national parks, and areas of outstanding natural beauty are all within easy reach of this historic university town.

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Lakeside bell tents near Oxford guide

Overview

Many flock to Oxford to admire its famous university, but the city’s outdoor opportunities are not to be overlooked. Parks, rivers, and gardens—including the UK’s oldest botanical garden—are scattered across the city, while several national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty can be easily reached in under two hours, providing plenty of options for hikers, bikers, and wildlife lovers. From riverside city retreats to secluded farmland pitches, adventurers are sure to find something to meet their camping needs.

Where to go

Around Oxford

Plenty of nature reserves, public parks, and countryside spaces, both inside and outside the Oxford Ring Road, provide all sorts of outdoor adventure around Oxford. Port Meadow, Raeleigh Park, and Chilswell Valley are great spots for a glimpse of nature, while Shotover Country Park lures mountain bikers with its sweeping valleys and off-road trails. Campgrounds abound in the area, including caravan parks, private farms, and Thameside tenting pitches.

The Cotswolds AONB

One of England’s most famous camping destinations, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty lies less than an hour west of Oxford by road. Villages, gardens, historic buildings, and working farms provide plenty for the whole family to enjoy, and a vast network of country lanes and bridleways are ideal for exploring on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. Glamping is increasingly popular in the area, though touring parks and pet-friendly campgrounds remain common too.

Chiltern Hills AONB

Drive less than an hour east of Oxford and you’ll find the Chilterns, another Area of Outstanding Beauty. Home to ancient forests, rolling fields, and winding waterways, these chalk hills offer a quintessentially English outdoor experience. Camping options range from high-end lodges to back-to-basics pitches, with many campgrounds also welcoming pets as part of the family.

The New Forest

One of England’s most famous national parks, the New Forest stands just over 100 km (around 70 miles) south of Oxford, close to Southampton on England’s south coast. A diverse landscape made up of heathland, forest, and coastline, the park is a favourite among wildlife lovers, watersports enthusiasts, ramblers, and riders. Wild camping is not permitted within the park itself, though there are several designated campsites throughout.

The South Downs

Home to the ancient South Downs Way, this national park sprawls from Surrey down to the Sussex Coast, and can be reached in around 90 minutes from Oxford. The chalk downs and winding valleys are ideal for hiking and biking, and the region’s many private farms provide plenty of camping options, from wild pitching to luxury glamping.

When to go

England’s national parks and AONBs are busiest during spring and summer, so book ahead to secure your spot. Autumn and winter bring fewer crowds and striking landscapes—but be prepared for the cold!

Know before you go

Public transport is widely accessible across England, though campers travelling longer distances may find it easier to bring or hire a vehicle.
Gear rental can sometimes be arranged directly through campsites, so it’s worth checking in advance.
Otherwise, Oxford is home to several camping shops, including GO Outdoors and Mountain Warehouse.